Circumcision Specialist

What is a circumcision?

As a male, you’re born with a covering over the head of your penis, which is called the foreskin. When your child is first born, the foreskin is attached to the penis. Over time, it separates and can actually be pulled back to clean the head of the penis.

Circumcisions began as a religious procedure. Now, it’s done for many different reasons, including cultural-related, personal or family choice, and rarely medical reasons.

A circumcision is when one of the pediatricians at Academy Park Pediatrics removes the foreskin from the head of the penis. The procedure is often performed within the first few days after birth, and can be done up to one month of age in-office. A circumcision can be done at any age, but it’s less risky when you’re younger.

How is the procedure performed?

During the procedure, your baby will be on his back. The doctor gently restrains the baby to prevent his extremities from flailing around during the circumcision.

Once the baby is comfortable, the doctor cleans off the penis with an antiseptic to help prevent infection and remove bacteria. An anesthetic is then injected at the base of the penis or applied to the area to help with any discomfort.

After the anesthetic kicks in, the doctor begins by getting the foreskin detached from the head of the penis. Once it’s separated, the doctors at Academy Park Pediatrics complete the procedure using a plastibell. 

After the procedure, ointment is usually applied to the head of the penis. The doctor then discusses the aftercare and provides you with a handout so you can ensure your baby is comfortable during recovery.

Are there any risks of the procedure?

A circumcision is a very safe procedure either performed in the office or at the hospital, depending on age. However, it is a type of surgical procedure, meaning some risks are involved, including: 

• Pain
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Inflammation
• Anesthetic reaction

After the procedure, the tip of the penis can also become irritated, but that should go away relatively quickly. The doctors can help your child with any pain management if needed.

Circumcision is a personal decision for you and your child, and the team helps you decide if it’s something you’d like to do.

To schedule a circumcision consultation, call the office today, or visit the website to request an appointment online.