Overview
Circumcision is an ancient surgical practice that involves removing the foreskin from the tip of the penis. This procedure is often performed for medical, cultural, or religious purposes, with many cultures opting to carry it out on male infants during their first year of life.
Among its benefits, circumcision can make genital hygiene simpler, lower the chances of contracting sexually transmitted infections, decrease the risk of penile cancer, and prevent issues related to the foreskin.
The procedure can be performed using various techniques, from traditional freehand methods to modern devices, all aiming for the same result, though recovery times may differ. In the UK, it is advised that both parents agree before circumcision is performed on a child.
Plastibell ring circumcision
This is the circumcision method we primarily use for most of our male infants. We welcome babies from their first week of life up to 9 months old, with minimal waiting time. For older children, the procedure can be arranged upon special request. Prior to the circumcision, we conduct a health screening to confirm that your child is a suitable candidate. Certain conditions, such as penile abnormalities, bleeding disorders, prematurity requiring continued hospital care, or fever, may make the procedure unsuitable. After the circumcision, we typically observe the baby for about 30 minutes to ensure they are comfortable and stable before discharge.
- Not to feed the baby 1 hour before the procedure. This is to prevent the infant from vomiting and choking.
- Please bring along two NAPPIES. This will be used after the procedure.
- Dr Umeadi will explain the procedure in detail and obtain the consent for the procedure from both parents.
- The surgery will be performed under local anaesthesia (injection at the base of the penis) and circumcision is performed using Plastibell device.
- The procedure takes about 10 minutes to complete; that is 5 minutes for the injection to work and 5 minutes for the operation. You may have to be in the surgery for a total of up to one hour, as we want to make sure that your baby is OK before leaving.
PRE-OPERATIVE ADVICE
PLASTIBELL CIRCUMCISION FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ’S)
Do I need a GP referral?
Infant circumcision is mostly carried out for cultural reasons. It does not require a GP referral; therefore, you can book directly by contacting us. There is no waiting time, and we can fit in most patients within one week.
What is your age limit for circumcision?
You can get a direct booking from 0-12 months.
Who can sign a consent for the procedure?
The GP will explain the procedure and obtain the consent for the procedure from both parents. By law both parents must sign to consent for circumcision. Grandparents cannot sign a consent for circumcision. We have a protocol for accommodate single parents or if one parent is unable to attend.
Will my baby feel any pain?
The surgery will be performed under local anaesthesia and we additional oral sucrose.
When can I take my baby home?
After the procedure, we like to observe your baby for about 30 minutes, to ensure there is no bleeding and that baby is feeling ok. During this time, you can feed your baby in our bespoke breast- feeding room.
Can I give pain medication?
Every baby can have pain killers if required, though not all babies need them. Paracetamol is usually sufficient for pain relief. We will assess your baby and advise further before discharge.
How about aftercare?
After Plastibell Circumcision, you do not need to change your routine for bathing and cleaning your baby. Even if your baby does a poop this will not affect the plastibell ring.
Are there potential complications?
Every operation has complications. Plastibel circumcision is generally very safe and we have qualified clinicians to deal with any issues arising from the procedure. Possible complications are: Bleeding,
Baby not passed urine; Infection requiring antibiotics; Ring retracted up; cosmetic expectations.
Can I book my baby for review?
There is not fee for requesting a review of your baby after the procedure. We also offer video consultation via a secure portal.