Can Circumcision Cause Any Long-Term Complications?
If a male has excessive foreskin, it is recommended to undergo circumcision promptly. Although circumcision is a minor surgery, all surgeries carry risks. Therefore, it is crucial to undergo the procedure at a reputable and large hospital. After the surgery, it is essential to rest and avoid strenuous activities. One should maintain a light diet and consume food that aids wound healing.
Circumcision surgery, although minimal, may also carry the risk of complications, although the likelihood is extremely low. Potential complications include:
a. Recurrent narrowing of the foreskin, which can occur in patients with a tendency to form scars. Excessive local scar formation can lead to narrowing of the foreskin orifice, resulting in the recurrence of phimosis. This may be accompanied by risks such as adhesion of the external urethral orifice and local infection.
b. Urethral stenosis, which may occur after circumcision surgery due to potential urethral injury. This can lead to secondary urethral stenosis, manifesting as difficulty in urination, painful urination, and in severe cases, even inability to urinate.
c. Ischemia of the penis, which can occur due to excessive ligation during the surgical procedure, leading to local necrosis. This is most commonly observed on the side of the penile frenulum, resulting in discoloration and even pain and exudation.
The primary indications for circumcision include phimosis and excessive foreskin. Circumcision may be considered for patients with a narrow foreskin orifice that interferes with urination or those with recurrent infections. Additionally, adults with phimosis or recurrent infections due to excessive foreskin may also be candidates for the procedure.
Circumcision is contraindicated in the following situations:
a. Abnormal development of the penis, such as hypospadias or penile curvature.
b. Concurrent acute inflammation, including acute balanitis, urethritis, and glans penis inflammation.
c. Abnormal coagulation function.
