What is Circumcision?
Circumcision is a minor surgical procedure involving the removal of the foreskin, which is the fold of skin covering the glans (head) of the penis.
It is one of the oldest and most commonly performed surgical procedures worldwide, done for medical, cultural, or religious reasons.
The procedure is performed on both children and adults and can have a therapeutic purpose—especially in cases of phimosis or chronic inflammation—or an aesthetic/preventive purpose based on personal choice.
Medical Indications for Circumcision
Circumcision is indicated in cases of:
- Phimosis (inability to retract the foreskin from the glans)
- Chronic balanoposthitis (recurrent inflammation)
- Paraphimosis (an emergency condition where the foreskin becomes trapped behind the glans causing constriction)
- Aesthetic or personal discomfort
- Better hygiene and prevention of infections
In adults, it is usually performed when phimosis causes pain, difficulty during sexual intercourse, or increased risk of urinary tract infections.
Procedure
Circumcision is a quick procedure lasting about 30–45 minutes. It is done under local or general anesthesia depending on the patient’s age and preferences. It involves:
- Removal of the foreskin using specialized scalpels or electrocautery
- Control of bleeding with cauterization or stitches
- Suturing the skin with fine, absorbable stitches
The procedure is very safe when performed by an experienced surgeon and has minimal complications.
Recovery and Postoperative Care
Healing usually takes 7–10 days. During this period:
- Mild swelling, redness, and sensitivity occur
- The patient must keep the area clean and dry
- Antibiotics and painkillers are given if necessary
- Sexual activity should be avoided for about 3–4 weeks
Full recovery is fast and normal daily activities resume shortly.
Advantages of Circumcision
- Definitive solution to phimosis and recurrent inflammation
- Improved hygiene of the area
- Reduced risk of sexually transmitted infections
- Possible improvement in sexual experience
- Aesthetic enhancement of the penis
Complications and Contraindications
ΠPossible complications:
- Postoperative bleeding or infection
- Incomplete removal of the foreskin
- Cystic or hypertrophic scar formation
Contraindications:
- Patients with bleeding disorders
- Local skin infections or inflammations
- Poor general health that contraindicates anesthesia
Circumcision is a simple and safe surgical solution for phimosis or chronic inflammation and can also offer significant hygienic and aesthetic benefits. The procedure is painless, and recovery is quick.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. It is done under local or general anesthesia and does not cause pain during the surgery. Afterward, mild discomfort may occur, which is managed with painkillers.
Opinions vary. Most men report no significant change in sexual pleasure.
Yes. Many adults choose circumcision for aesthetic or hygiene reasons.
Complications are rare but may include minor bleeding, inflammation, or discomfort during healing. All are easily managed.
Plastic Surgeon Eleftherios Dimitradiou performs the circumcision method with precision and experience, ensuring excellent aesthetic and functional outcomes with full patient safety.
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