Circumcision
What is Circumcision? Circumcision removes the foreskin covering the head of the penis. Medical reasons include phimosis (a tight foreskin that cannot be retracted), paraphimosis, recurrent balanitis, and balanitis xerotica obliterans. Typical duration at Iswarya Hospital, OMR Chennai: 20–30 mins. Recovery: 1–2 weeks.
It is also performed for religious and personal reasons in boys and adults. At Iswarya Hospital the procedure is done by a surgeon under local, spinal or general anaesthesia depending on age, using either the conventional sleeve technique with dissolving stitches or a stapler device. It is a day-care procedure with a low complication rate.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Durai Ravi, Senior Consultant – General, Advanced Laparoscopic, Laser & Robotic Surgeon · Updated 9 October 2026
How is Circumcision performed?
- 1
Anaesthesia is given: local block for adults, general for children.
- 2
The foreskin is marked and any adhesions to the glans are released.
- 3
The foreskin is removed in a sleeve fashion, leaving the frenulum area tidy.
- 4
Small bleeding points are sealed with cautery.
- 5
The skin edges are closed with fine dissolving stitches.
- 6
A light non-stick dressing is applied.
What are the benefits of Circumcision?
- ✓Cures phimosis and prevents paraphimosis
- ✓Ends recurrent foreskin infections
- ✓Easier hygiene and lower risk of urinary infection in infants
- ✓Day-care procedure with a quick return to routine
- ✓Dissolving stitches mean no removal visit
How do you prepare for Circumcision?
- Examination confirms the indication; blood tests are done in adults and older children.
- Fast for 6 hours if general or spinal anaesthesia is planned.
- Trim pubic hair the day before in adults.
- Stop blood thinners as instructed.
- Wear loose cotton underwear on the day.
What are the risks and side effects of Circumcision?
- Bleeding from the wound edge in the first 24 hours
- Infection of the wound
- Swelling and bruising for up to 2 weeks
- Removal of too little or too much skin (rare)
- Sensitivity of the glans for a few weeks
Your surgeon will discuss all risks with you before the procedure and take appropriate precautions to minimise them.
What is recovery like after Circumcision?
- Keep the dressing on for 24–48 hours, then leave the area open.
- Apply the prescribed antibiotic ointment twice daily for a week.
- Simple painkillers; children usually need only paracetamol.
- Avoid cycling, swimming and sexual activity for 4 weeks.
- Report bleeding that soaks the dressing, fever or difficulty passing urine.
Frequently asked questions about Circumcision
At what age can circumcision be done?
At any age. In infants it can be done under local anaesthesia; older children have general anaesthesia; adults usually have a local block or spinal anaesthesia.
How painful is recovery?
Discomfort is mild to moderate for 2–3 days and is controlled with paracetamol or ibuprofen. The glans feels sensitive for a few weeks as it adjusts to being uncovered.
When can my child return to school?
Most children return within 3–5 days once they are comfortable walking. Sports should wait 2–3 weeks.
Do stitches need to be removed?
No. Fine dissolving stitches are used and fall away within 2–3 weeks.
Where can you get Circumcision in Chennai?
Iswarya Hospital's General & Laparoscopic Surgery department performs a wide range of procedures using minimally invasive (keyhole) techniques for faster recovery, less pain, and shorter hospital stays — including hernia repair, gallbladder removal, appendectomy, and piles/fistula surgery.
Sources and further reading
Plan your first visit
Not sure which specialist to see? Tell our care team the reason for your visit and we will help you choose.
- Bring previous prescriptions, relevant test reports or scan images, a medication list and photo ID.
- If you plan to use insurance, bring your policy details. OPD, tests and admission benefits depend on your individual plan and approval.
- Ask the treating team about alternatives, preparation, expected stay, recovery and a written estimate. Follow their instructions for your case.
Appointments are requests until confirmed. In a medical emergency, call 044 2025 2025 or go to the nearest emergency department.
ℹ️ This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual treatment plans may vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any medical decisions.