Paediatric Surgery

Circumcision

NMC Royal Women’s Hospital is pleased to offer a circumcision service for newborn baby boys. Circumcision is a simple surgical procedure that removes the foreskin, which covers the tip of the penis. Circumcision improves hygiene and reduces the risk of urinary tract infections, sexually transmitted diseases, and cancer of the penis.

What to expect

After birth, the Neonatologist who examines your son will discuss the option of arranging his circumcision in our Paediatric Surgery clinic. If you would like your son to have the procedure, we will make an appointment for you to meet the Paediatric Surgeon at the NMC Royal Women's Hospital. He will assess your son, explain the procedure and answer any questions you might have.

During the procedure

The procedure will be done under local anesthesia. Your son will be lying on his back with arms and legs restrained. The surgeon will clean your son’s penis. A special plastic ring (Plastibell) will be fitted to the penis and the foreskin will be removed. Antiseptic cream will be applied. The procedure will take 15 to 20 minutes.

Following the procedure, your son will be observed for at least 10 minutes to ensure there are no complications before you take him home. The surgeon will explain what to expect in the coming days and how to seek help if you have any concerns. He will also arrange follow-up visit if any is needed.

Home care after the procedure

It usually takes 7 - 10 days for the ring to fall off and for the penis to heal fully. The tip of the penis may look sore and swollen at first and he may be a little fussy and irritable. Hold him carefully so as not to put pressure on his penis. Keep his penis clean as it heals. If any stool gets on his penis gently wash it away with warm soapy water.

To help prevent infection, change his diaper often and fasten it loosely

Possible complications

Complications are rare, almost all babies recover from circumcision without any problems. Seek emergency help at your local emergency department if any of the following occurs:

  • Non-stop bleeding or severe swelling
  • Unable to pass urine in the first 12 hours following the procedure
  • Continuous severe pain despite giving pain relief
  • Fever, discharge, or an offensive smell from the surgical site

For inquiries and more information:

Please do not hesitate to contact the Paediatric Surgery Clinic at NMC Royal Women’s Hospital

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