Phimosis can be treated using steroid creams which will soften the foreskin when used every day for 4-8 weeks. Your doctor will also show you how to massage the foreskin which will stretch it in a controlled way.

Surgical treatments are also available. These include:

-    Circumcision
-    Preputioplasty. This is plastic surgery to reduce the foreskin on the penis, several incisions are made in the tip of the penis to expose the head (glands). This treatment is most effective in children with congenital tightening and is ineffective in those with a very tight foreskin.

It is important to note that stretching of a foreskin is not recommended as treatment, this can lead to scarring and tearing which may worsen phimosis. 

We understand that surgery can be daunting, but don’t worry, our specialised medical staff will be there to answer any questions or worries you may have.

The procedure usually takes around 30-60 minutes.

Your consultant will use medical instruments such as a scalpel, scissors and surgical clamps, to make a small incision behind the head of your penis. They will then use these instruments to remove the entire foreskin leaving the glands exposed.

When the foreskin has been removed, your consultant will use dissolvable stitches to re-attach the remaining edges of the skin.

The wound will be covered with a dressing that can be removed the following day.

How long does it take to recover from circumcision?

You should be able to return to normal activities a week after the surgery.

You will experience pain in your penis after surgery which can be eased with pain relief.

Loose clothing is recommended for the first-week post-surgery as it will stop irritation and possible infection.

It is best to avoid sexual activity until the wound has fully healed.

Most adults recover after 4-6 weeks post-surgery.

What are the risks?

As with any surgery, there are risks involved. For circumcision, these include:

●    Infection in the surgical area.
●    Urethra damage.
●    Decreased sexual sensitivity.