Even so-called “foreskin restoration” does not restore all the structures removed during circumcision, since circumcision often removes (to varying degrees) other structures of the penis like the frenulum and ridged band that cannot be regrown. [1] X Research source
Most pediatricians do provide this service prior to baby being discharged from the hospital.
There is debate as to pain relief options when performing a circumcision. Injectable anesthesia is most often used for circumcision — the dorsal penile nerve block, which is delivered via two injections, is used in 85% of cases in the US. Another injectable option, known as ring block, has also proven to be extremely effective. [3] X Research source Topical creams, such as EMLA cream, may also be an option. Ensure that you are comfortable with what is recommended and if not, you can obtain a second opinion. Newborns do experience pain, and research has proven that local anesthesia is safe and effective, so make sure your doctor is using adequate pain relief measures during the procedure. This may be another reason to forego circumcision and allow your son to make the choice when he becomes an adult.
The most popular shield is the Gomco shield, though many others are available.
The Gomco Clamp – With this method, the doctor uses a probe to separate the foreskin from the head of the penis. After that, a bell-shaped device is fitted over the head of the penis and under the foreskin, which may require an incision in the foreskin. The foreskin is pulled up over the bell and a clamp is tightened around it to reduce blood flow to the area. Finally, a scalpel is used to cut and remove the foreskin. The Mogen Clamp – With this method, the doctor also uses a probe to separate the foreskin from the head of the penis. Then the foreskin is pulled out away from the head and inserted into a metal clamp. The doctor will hold the clamp in place while the foreskin is cut with a scalpel. The clamp will remain in place for a few minutes to ensure all of the bleeding has stopped. The Plastibell Technique – With this method (similarly to the Gomco Clamp method), the doctor uses a probe to separate the foreskin from the head of the penis. Then the bell-shaped device is fitted over the head of the penis and under the foreskin. Next, a piece of suture is tied around the foreskin to cut off the blood circulation to the foreskin. The doctor will then use a scalpel to cut off the extra foreskin, but the suture is left on. It will fall off on its own approximately three to seven days later.
Sometimes it is necessary to wait until your child is older to perform a circumcision. For example, if your child has a condition called phimosis in which the foreskin is too tight to be pulled back over the head of the penis. [6] X Research source In these cases, circumcision will be postponed until the child is two years old (or even until puberty, if the parents so choose); however, there can be more complications, more pain and associated trauma, and a longer healing time for an older child, so you must take the proper precautions and consider your choice carefully since circumcision is essentially an elective surgery. Newborns typically recover from the surgery within 24 hours. Older children and adults can take three to four days for recovery. [7] X Research source For older children or adults, you might consider general anesthesia. This poses certain risks, but can reduce possible trauma related to undergoing the surgery while awake. [8] X Research source [9] X Research source
During the pregnancy, health problems of both father and mother should be discussed to assess risks and benefits of the circumcision and other procedures. This assessment can help avoid any unforeseen problems; however, even with the best assessments, life can offer surprises that are unforeseen.
Instructions for aftercare Pain relief Special diaper changing instructions
Some problems to watch for include oozing from the surgical site, continued bleeding around the circumcised area, abnormal urination patterns (or no urination), or other signs of infection as a result of the surgery.
Keep the penis clean. Keep the area covered with a healing lotion, such as petroleum jelly, perhaps on a gauze wrapped (but never taped) around his circumcised penis. Know how to stem minor bleeding, specifically using sterile contact methods. Add a little pressure to the area that is bleeding.
