Circumcision
What Is A Circumcision?
Circumcision is the removal of foreskin from the male penis. This is a common elective procedure, where the foreskin is separated from the glans and removed. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthetic. Though circumcision is most commonly performed 1 – 8 weeks after birth, it is an option for patients that later in life suffer from phimosis (when the foreskin can’t be pulled over the head of the penis), recurring balanoposthitis (inflammation of the foreskin) or chronic urinary tract infections which are not adequately resolved with other treatment options.
We perform hundreds of these a year, so you are in good hands.
Is It Necessary?
This can be controversial. The American Academy of Pediatrics position on this changes over time. However, it is considered a medical option, but not medically necessary.
The American Academy of Pediatrics’ position statement in 2012 notes that it believes the benefits to the procedure outweigh the risks. The principal benefits include a reduction in the risk of urinary tract infections, penile cancer, and transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.
What Are The Risks Of This Procedure?
As with any procedure, there are risks. Complications of this procedure can include scarring, bleeding, and infection. When scheduling this procedure, the doctor will go over the possible risks and complications with you.
Post Circumcision Instructions
What should I do to take care of the penis after the procedure?
Place a liberal amount of Vaseline or A&D ointment on the penis with every diaper change. This protects the penis from sticking to his diaper. Apply this with every diaper change for 1 week.
There is something on the penis that looks like pus, is this a problem?
It is normal to have a shiny white or yellowish film that may cover part of the penis during healing. This doesn’t come off easily with wiping, however this is normal.
You should call if:
- There is a yellowish discharge that can be wiped away
- There is a foul odor
- Increased redness or swelling
- Fever greater than 100.4
- Your son stops having wet diapers
- If your son stops eating or becomes inconsolable
Typically, the area starts to look better after two days and will continue to improve over the next several days.
How long does it take to completely heal?
It takes up to 2 weeks for the area to completely heal. You should be gentle around the area during this time. You should keep the area clean until it is completely healed.
The foreskin is coming over the head of the penis. Is that normal?
Most babies will develop a fat pad at the base of the penis during their first year of life. This is normal and can cause some of the skin to get pushed over the head of the penis. This can make it look uncircumcised. It is important to gently retract the skin to the base of the head of the penis. As your baby grows, this will get better over time.
Pricing
Newborn (less than 3 months)- $200 (Please fill out this form)
Anyone >3 months old (teenagers and adults)- $100 consult and $500 procedure fee. This is the office based fee. If the procedure needs to be done under general anesthesia, the price goes up significantly and is quoted on an individual basis. Most patients over 12 years-old have the procedure done in the office. Fees are charged in advance. If you need to cancel and do it more than 24 hours prior to your appointment, your money will be refunded. Please fill out this form.
Please call our office today at 360.613.1335 to schedule your appointment with one of our surgeons.
Once you have scheduled an appointment, please fill out this form if the patient is a newborn (less then 3 months old).