Sometimes, when a mother or father looks at their little son, it may seem like the foreskin on his penis is a little too long. Or even a young child may think about this after he grows up a little. Is this really normal? Or is it something we should pay attention to? Most of the time, this is not a big problem. But sometimes, this can cause various problems. Today, we are talking about this problem of the foreskin, which is a problem for many people, which is medically known as 'Redundant Prepuce' .
What is this redundant prepuce?
Very simple. The skin covering the head (glans) of the male penis is called the foreskin/prepuce . 'Redundant prepuce' means that this foreskin is longer than necessary. Simply put, when the penis is not erect, the head of the penis is completely covered by this extra skin.
This is normal for most boys and men. However, sometimes this extra foreskin can cause health problems. Especially if the foreskin cannot be fully retracted, meaning the head of the penis cannot be fully exposed, that's when the problems begin. In such cases, doctors may recommend surgical removal of this extra foreskin.
What is the connection between 'circumcision' and this condition?
You may have heard the word 'circumcision' . This is the surgical removal of the foreskin. It is performed in different countries and cultures around the world for different reasons. Sometimes for religious reasons, sometimes for health reasons. The parents decide whether to have this done on a newborn boy or not. If the boy is a little older, he can decide for himself.
Most circumcision surgeries are successful. However, very rarely, the foreskin is not removed sufficiently during the first surgery. This can result in the child's penis looking strange, neither fully circumcised nor uncircumcised. In such cases, a second surgery can be performed if the parents or the child wish to correct this.
Why do some people resort to a second surgery?
There are two main reasons:
1. Appearance: Restore the appearance of the penis to normal.
2. To prevent health issues: Reduce some of the health risks that uncircumcised men may face.
Okay, now let's see what health problems can arise from the foreskin becoming too long or not being able to retract it completely.
| Possible problem | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Smegma buildup | This is a naturally secreted lubricant. If the foreskin is not pulled back and cleaned properly, it can build up, causing odor, itching, and infection. |
| Swelling/infection of the foreskin and glans penis | When cleanliness under the foreskin is poor, bacteria can grow and cause swelling, redness, and pain in the foreskin (Posthitis) and glans penis (Balanitis). |
| Various infections | The risk of urinary tract infections and sexually transmitted infections may be slightly increased. |
| Penile Cancer Risk | This is very rare, but there is a belief that chronic infections of the foreskin, if not properly cleaned over a long period of time, may slightly increase the risk of penile cancer. |
What is a second circumcision (Circumcision Revision)?
Another name for this is 'Circumcision Revision' . This is a second surgery to correct or complete a previous circumcision. This is not something that is done regularly, but sometimes it is necessary.
Studies have shown that if a child's foreskin is still long after their first circumcision, it's not a good idea to wait too long to correct it.
Many parents think that 'this will go away as they grow older'. But that's not the case. If this problem is not treated, it is more likely to get worse over time. This long foreskin will not go away automatically as the child grows older.
So if you have such doubts, it's best to see a doctor as soon as possible and seek advice.
Who performs this surgery and how?
This second surgery is usually performed by a doctor who specializes in the urinary tract and male reproductive system . We call them Urologists . This surgery is usually performed in a hospital.
During the surgery, the child or person is given general anesthesia so that they do not feel any pain. This means that they are asleep during the surgery. Although there are various methods for the surgery, the most common is a special surgical procedure that pulls back the foreskin and removes excess skin. However, your specialist will decide which method is best for your child/you.
What happens after the surgery? How is the care?
This second surgery (Circumcision Revision) is usually very successful. So there is no need to worry about it. Your doctor will explain to you more about the benefits of the surgery.
Let's also learn a little about aftercare after surgery.
- After surgery, the wound is closed with absorbable stitches . This means that you don't have to go back to have the stitches removed.
- An antibiotic ointment is applied over the suture site and covered with a sterile dressing.
- This bandage usually needs to be left on for between 24 and 48 hours .
- The doctor will then remove the bandage and continue to apply antibiotic ointment for 7 to 10 days . This will prevent the stitches from sticking to the baby's diapers or underwear.
Your doctor will explain all of this to you thoroughly. The most important thing is to follow those instructions exactly.
Take-Home Message
- 'Redundant Prepuce' is an increase in the length of the foreskin. This is a common condition for many people.
- But if there are problems such as the inability to retract the foreskin or frequent infections, it is very important to seek medical advice.
- The first circumcision may not always be perfect. Sometimes a second surgery (revision) may be needed to correct it.
- Don't wait until the child grows up and says, "This will be okay." If in doubt, see a doctor.
- The most appropriate specialist for these issues is a urologist.
- Corrective surgery is generally very safe and successful. It is very important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully after surgery.
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