Surgery·Surgery
Circumcision adult medical
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Adult circumcision is a surgical procedure to remove the foreskin from the penis. It is usually done to treat medical problems such as a tight foreskin (phimosis), recurring infections, or inflammation. It is not a routine procedure and is only recommended when other treatments have not worked.
Key facts
Adult circumcision is not as common as in newborns, but it is still performed regularly for medical reasons. In the UK, around 1 in 10 men will have a circumcision at some point in their life.
Typically affects men who have a tight foreskin that cannot be pulled back, repeated infections of the foreskin or head of the penis, or conditions like balanitis xerotica obliterans (a chronic skin condition).
A doctor will ask about your symptoms and examine your penis and foreskin. The examination is quick and usually painless.
You will be asked to undress from the waist down and lie down or stand. The doctor will inspect the area and may ask you to retract the foreskin yourself. It may feel uncomfortable but should not be painful. You can ask for a chaperone to be present.
Treatment depends on the cause. For mild cases, simple measures like good hygiene and avoiding irritants may help. For more persistent problems, medical treatments are tried first. If these do not work, circumcision may be recommended.
A doctor may prescribe a steroid cream or ointment to apply to the tight part of the foreskin. This can help reduce inflammation and make the skin easier to stretch. Antibiotics or antifungal creams may be given if an infection is present.
Circumcision is considered when other treatments do not work, the condition keeps coming back, or the skin is very scarred. The surgery removes the foreskin and is usually done under local or general anaesthetic.
After circumcision, the wound will be sore for a few days. Keep the area clean and dry. You may have dissolvable stitches that disappear in 2–3 weeks. Avoid exercise, heavy lifting, and sexual activity until the wound has healed completely.
There are no special diet restrictions. Light physical activity can be resumed as soon as you feel comfortable, but strenuous exercise or cycling should be avoided for 4–6 weeks.
Some men feel anxious about the appearance of their penis after circumcision. Others feel relief from long-standing discomfort. If you have worries about body image or sexual function, talking to your doctor or a counsellor can help.
Not all cases of phimosis or infections can be prevented. However, good genital hygiene – gentle washing with water, avoiding harsh soaps – can reduce the risk of recurrent infections.
The outlook is very good. Most men who undergo circumcision for medical reasons are satisfied with the result. Pain and discomfort go away, and the risk of future infections is greatly reduced. As with any surgery, there are risks such as bleeding or infection, but these are uncommon.
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.