Circumcision
Alternative names:
foreskin removal; excision of penile foreskin; removal of
foreskin
Expectations after surgery:
For both newborns and older children, circumcision is considered
a very safe procedure with complete healing expected.
Convalescence:
Healing time for newborns usually takes about 1 week. Apply
petroleum jelly after diaper changes to protect the healing
incision. Some initial swelling
and yellow crust formation around the incision is normal.
Healing time for older children and adolescents may take up
to 3 weeks. In most instances, the child will be discharged
from the hospital on the day of the surgery. Suggestions for
home care for older children include:
- Avoid vigorous exercise during the healing time.
- If the wound bleeds
during the first 24 hours after surgery, apply pressure
with a clean cloth for 10 minutes.
- Use ice packs (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) for the
first 24 hours after surgery to reduce swelling and pain.
(only for older children and not newborn infants). Bathing
and showering are usually permitted. The incision may be
gently washed with mild, unscented soap.
- Change the dressing at least once a day and apply an antibiotic
ointment. If the dressing gets wet, change it promptly.
- Use prescribed pain medicine as directed. Pain
medication should not be needed longer than 4 to 7 days.
Call your pediatrician or surgeon if:
- fresh bleeding occurs
- the entire penis
looks red and swollen
- pus drains from around the incision
- pain becomes severe or lasts for more than expected.
Update Date: 02/09/00
Updated by: J. Gordon Lambert, MD, Associate Medical Director,
Utah Health Informatics and adam.com
editorial
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