Understanding Circumcision: Benefits, Procedure, and Recovery in Brooklyn, NY

Understanding Circumcision: Benefits, Procedure, and Recovery in Brooklyn, NY

Circumcision is a procedure that involves the removal of the foreskin on the penis. It is a topic that is often debated. There are many different beliefs from medical, cultural, and religious perspectives. People often think that circumcision is unnecessary, but having the procedure done at some point can be beneficial in many ways. While it is often done shortly after birth, it can be done at any time, even as an adult.

If you are considering a circumcision in New York, here’s what you need to know so you can make an informed decision.

Benefits

The advantages of circumcision include the following:

• Reduced risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Circumcision may lower the likelihood of UTIs, particularly during infancy.
• Decreased risk of certain infections. It reduces the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV and HPV, in some populations. Men who have been circumcised have a 60% lower risk of contracting HIV during vaginal sex.
• Lower risk of penile problems. Conditions like phimosis (inability to retract the foreskin) and balanitis (inflammation of the foreskin or head of the penis) are less common in circumcised individuals.
• Reduced risk of penile cancer, Though penile cancer is rare, circumcision may slightly lower the risk.

• Improved hygiene. Circumcision can make cleaning the genital area easier, which might improve overall hygiene and reduce the risk of infections.
• Improved cosmetic appearance. In some societies, circumcision is more common, and individuals may prefer to be circumcised for aesthetic reasons or to align with social norms.

Procedure

Circumcision follows these procedures:

• Preparation. The patient or guardians (for infants or children) provide informed consent, understanding the risks and benefits. The surgical area is cleaned to prevent infection. Local anesthesia is given to adults and older children, while general anesthesia or local anesthesia is given to infants.
• The procedure. The surgeon marks the area to define how much foreskin will be removed. Devices like a Gomco clamp, Plastibell, or Mogen clamp may be used to ensure precision and minimize bleeding. The foreskin is carefully excised, either with a scalpel or surgical scissors. Bleeding is controlled using sutures, cauterization, or the clamping device. The edges of the remaining skin may be stitched using dissolvable sutures.

Recovery

After the procedure, the area is covered with a sterile dressing and a topical antibiotic. Pain relief is typically managed with acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

For adults, recovery takes 2 to 3 weeks. For infants, it is 10 to 14 days. Some swelling and discoloration are normal. These should subside within a week or two.

Keep the area clean and dry. Follow your doctor’s instructions for changing dressings. Rest as much as possible for the first few days. Avoid strenuous activities, including heavy lifting or sports, until fully healed.

Contact Us Today

Circumcision is a procedure that is fairly easy to perform and comes with a lot of benefits. It can greatly improve self-confidence in men. 

A New York doctor from Lazare Urology can answer your questions about circumcision. Dr. Jonathan Lazare has the necessary expertise to perform safe and effective circumcisions. Schedule a consultation today by calling (718) 369-3300 or filling out the online form. We serve the Brooklyn area.

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