What Is a Partial Circumcision?
Newborns and infant boys may require circumcision for religious or cultural reasons, but there are also medical indications such as phimosis, balanitis, and paraphimosis. These conditions are caused by tight foreskin, which can be difficult to treat using less invasive methods. Fortunately, the surgeon can perform a modified partial circumcision to reduce or eliminate these symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life.
The surgical procedure is very similar to that of a full circumcision. However, the surgeon cuts the foreskin in an area that is not directly over the head of the penis (glans). The sensitivity of the glans is preserved and males appear to tolerate this method well. It may also be a safer option for patients with mild cases of phimosis that are not responding to other treatment options.
In order to perform the procedure, the doctor will use a local anesthetic, which is injected near the base of the penis. The patient will then be able to leave the clinic as soon as the procedure is complete. Newborns and infant boys may also be given a pacifier dipped in acetaminophen to help alleviate pain and stress during the procedure.
The patient will likely experience some swelling of the foreskin after the procedure, but this will go away independently and gradually within a few days. The patient should avoid sexual activity until the wound has healed, which usually takes 4 to 6 weeks.