Lumps & other · सुंता

Phimosis & circumcision

Phimosis means the foreskin is too tight to pull back. In young boys this is often normal and improves with age; in older children and adults it can cause pain, infection and difficulty passing urine.

Typical stayDay-care
AnaesthesiaLocal, or general for children
Back to desk workAbout 2–5 days

Common symptoms

  • A foreskin that cannot be pulled back, or tightness that is getting worse
  • Ballooning of the foreskin while passing urine
  • Repeated redness, swelling or infection of the tip (balanitis)
  • Pain during erection or intercourse; cracks in the foreskin

Go to hospital immediately if

  • The foreskin is stuck behind the head of the penis and the tip is swelling (paraphimosis)
  • You cannot pass urine

Treatment without surgery

Many cases improve without an operation.

  • In young boys a tight foreskin is often normal — avoid forcing it back
  • Gentle hygiene, and treating any infection
  • A prescribed cream can loosen a tight foreskin in many cases

Treatment options

Which option suits you is decided after examination — sometimes the answer is no procedure at all.

Circumcision

The foreskin is removed, usually with dissolving stitches. It is also performed for religious or personal reasons.

Suited toPersistent phimosis, repeated infection — or by choice

Recovery

Most people go home the same day. Mild swelling and discomfort settle over about a week; loose clothing helps. Full healing takes around three to four weeks.

Insurance

Salalkar Hospital supports insurance reimbursement — you receive the bills, discharge summary and documents your insurer asks for. Many policies have a waiting period for conditions such as piles, fissure, fistula and hernia, so check your policy wording before planning surgery.

Questions

Is circumcision needed for every tight foreskin?

No. In children a tight foreskin is often normal, and creams help many adults. Circumcision is advised when problems persist.

At what age can a child be circumcised?

It depends on the reason. Dr. Salalkar advises on timing and anaesthesia after examining your child.