You might be aware of the fact that circumcision is one of the common surgical procedures that has been practiced for centuries.

While circumcision is generally considered a safe procedure, like any other surgery, it comes with some risks and complications. And you must be aware of them to be able to effectively manage them.

Even though most of the complications are minor, they need to be managed effectively.

If you are someone who is considering circumcision, you should understand its complications and how to avoid it. Mykare Health is here to give you an insight into those.

Preparing For Circumcision

Before undergoing circumcision, you should be thoroughly prepared in all ways. You will be provided with a set of instructions to follow by your surgeon.

The instructions will include the steps to do before surgery. The medication intake instructions will also be there.

If the circumcision is for an infant, it is the parents’ duty to take necessary preparative measures.

Choose a hospital or clinic that is suitable for you before the surgery. You can also choose surgeons based on their expertise. You will be provided with a list of skilled surgeons or urologists to choose from.

Ensure proper safety protocols and sterilization are followed by the hospitals or clinics. You can have a detailed discussion with your surgeon about your doubts. Make sure you are aware of every aspect related to the surgery.

You should make your reason for getting circumcision clear to your surgeon. Discuss the process, the risks and benefits, and the type of circumcision to be performed on you. You can also discuss the anesthesia options and the recovery process.

Understanding Circumcision Complications

Common complications associated with circumcision include:

• Bleeding: Excessive bleeding is a common complication that can happen after the procedure. Bleeding a small amount is normal. But it can be serious if it exceeds that.

• Infection: Infections can be caused in the genital area if it is exposed to a foreign body during the surgery. Infections in infant circumcision can be serious.

• Surgical complications: Errors during the surgery can happen such as over scarring, uneven appearance, and other complications in the genital area.

• Excessive removal of foreskin: In some cases, more skin from the penis can be removed accidentally. It will result in discomfort and alter the appearance. Extra surgical procedures may be needed to rectify this.

• Meatal stenosis: It is the narrowing of the urethral opening as a result of irritation. It can cause difficulty in urinating and urinary tract infections in some cases.

Preventing Circumcision Complications

Preoperative Care

Ensuring proper hygiene before the surgery is important to lower the risk of infections. You should clean the genital area thoroughly with warm water. Avoid using harsh soaps or tight clothing to minimize irritation.

A thorough medical assessment should be done prior to the surgery. You should explain your previous medical conditions to the surgeon. Some conditions can prevent you from undergoing the surgery.

If you have any allergies or other issues, make sure to inform the surgeon beforehand. They will take necessary precautions.

Informed Consent

Understand the potential risks and complications of circumcision. Further, make decisions based on your preferences. It will help in setting realistic expectations.

If you decide to undergo circumcision, make sure you ask all your doubts to the surgeon and get it all cleared. Make informed decisions by considering the possible risks and complications that could come with the surgery.

Inquire about other available options apart from circumcision just in case. Make proper decisions based on all possibilities.

Know the chosen procedure’s specifics and implications. You can also ask about the type of anesthesia to be used on you as some complications can occur from it.

Postoperative Care

After the surgery, you must strictly follow the instructions provided by your surgeon. Clean your genital area properly but in a gentle way. You should not do any activities for 72 hours following the surgery. You can walk around for a bit as this helps in blood circulation.

Take the medications as prescribed. Avoid sexual activities for 4 to 6 weeks after the procedure. Inspect continuously to find if there is excessive bleeding, swelling, or infection.

It is normal for the penis to look a bit swollen after the surgery. But, if you experience excess swelling, consult the surgeon immediately.

Similarly, consult your surgeon or go to the nearest emergency room if you experience severe pain or bleeding.

Make sure to attend all the scheduled follow-up consultations to assess your recovery progress. Discuss any further queries with the surgeon during these consultations. Proper postoperative care will help you avoid complications. It will also help you to have a faster recovery. Noticing and addressing any signs of complications is also important for proper healing.

Know More About Circumcision Cost

What to Remember?

Weigh all the pros and cons of the chosen method before making the final decision. Have an understanding of all minor and major complications that could occur at any stage of the process.

The chosen method’s impact should be understood. The final decision should be made according to your personal values, preferences, and comfort level.

In the circumcision procedure, safety is the most important thing. So, make sure to follow all the steps as discussed.