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Adult Circumcision

Adult circumcision removes the foreskin covering the tip of the penis. It's performed at the hospital or surgery center on an outpatient basis — the procedure takes roughly 45–60 minutes, with a total stay of 3–4 hours.

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Caring for yourself afterward

The penis will be swollen and quite bruised at first; this gradually resolves over about two weeks. Wear snug briefs to hold everything in place and reduce rubbing during those two weeks.

The dressing

A bandage is applied after the procedure. It will usually show drainage and may need to be soaked in water to make removal easier — unwrap slowly, stopping to soak whenever it resists. Once the dressing is off, you may shower normally.

  • Apply Bacitracin ointment to the incision twice a day for 10 days.
  • Stitches dissolve on their own within 2–3 weeks.
  • A dull, achy pain is expected for up to a week.
  • Some blood and staining from the incision is expected for 3–5 days.
  • No strenuous activity or work/school for 7 days.
  • Avoid sexual activity for 6 weeks so the incision heals completely.