Circumcision is a common surgical procedure performed on male infants, usually for cultural, religious, or medical reasons. In most cases, the healing process is smooth and uncomplicated, but there are sometimes where a child may need a revision circumcision—a follow-up procedure to correct or improve the results of the initial circumcision.
While the need for a revision is relatively rare, it’s important for parents to recognize signs that may indicate a problem. Here’s what to watch for:
1.Excess Foreskin Remaining
Sometimes, too much foreskin is left behind after the initial procedure, leading to a condition called incomplete circumcision. This may give the appearance that the circumcision was never performed, especially if the remaining skin covers the glans (head) of the penis when flaccid.
What to look for:
- The penis looks as though it still has a foreskin
- The glans is rarely or never visible
- Difficulty cleaning the area due to excess skin
2. Trapped or Buried Penis
In some cases, the penis can appear “trapped” under the surrounding skin, particularly if the child is overweight or if excess skin was left during circumcision. This is sometimes called a buried penis.
What to look for:
- The penis appears short or hidden within the pubic fat pad
- Difficulty seeing the penis even during diaper changes or urination
- Skin tethering or pulling during erection or urination
3. Irregular or Uneven Healing
Healing after circumcision should be relatively uniform. If there are areas of skin that heal unevenly, or if scar tissue forms in an irregular way, revision may be recommended for cosmetic or functional reasons.
What to look for:
- Lopsided or asymmetrical skin appearance
- Lumpy scar tissue
- Uneven coloration or skin folds around the shaft
4. Skin Bridges or Adhesions
Skin bridges occur when the remaining foreskin or penile shaft skin adheres to the glans during healing. This can cause discomfort and may interfere with normal function.
What to look for:
- Areas where the shaft skin is stuck to the head of the penis
- Irritation, redness, or discomfort when the penis is manipulated
- Difficulty cleaning under the adhesions
5. Bleeding, Infection, or Prolonged Redness
While minor swelling and redness are common in the days following circumcision, prolonged or recurrent issues may point to complications that require evaluation.
What to look for:
- Persistent redness beyond a few weeks
- Recurrent bleeding or oozing
- Signs of infection such as pus, foul odor, or fever
6. Pain or Discomfort During Urination or Erections
If your child seems to experience pain when urinating or during an erection (more common in older children), this could indicate scarring, tight skin, or adhesions that need medical attention.
When To See A Specialist
If you’re noticing any of these signs or are simply concerned about the appearance or healing of your child’s circumcision, it’s a good idea to consult with Dr. Gleason, a pediatric urologist at Conrad Pearson Clinic. He can perform a simple evaluation and determine whether revision circumcision is needed or if the issue can be resolved with conservative care.
If a revision is necessary it is typically an outpatient procedure, and in many cases, it can be done safely under light sedation or anesthesia, depending on the child’s age and comfort. The recovery process is generally quick and similar to the original circumcision. Revision circumcision can provide both cosmetic and functional improvements when necessary. As a parent, trust your instincts—if something doesn’t look right or your child seems uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. Early evaluation and treatment can lead to better outcomes and peace of mind.
