Circumcision

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Foreskin

Foreskin removal; Removal of foreskin

For both newborns and older children, circumcision is considered a very safe procedure.

Healing time for newborns after circumcision usually is about 1 week. Petroleum jelly (Vaseline) should be applied after changing the diaper to protect the healing incision. Some initial swelling and yellow crust formation around the incision is normal.

For older children and adolescents, healing may take up to 3 weeks. In most cases, the child will be discharged from the hospital on the day of the surgery. Home care for older children should include:

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• Avoiding vigorous exercise during the healing.
• If the wound bleeds during the first 24 hours after surgery, pressure should be applied with a clean cloth for 10 minutes.
• In older children, use ice packs (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) for the first 24 hours after surgery to reduce swelling and pain. Bathing or showering is usually allowed. The incision may be gently washed with mild, unscented soap.
• Change the dressing at least once a day and apply an antibiotic ointment. If the dressing gets wet, change it promptly.
• Use prescribed pain medicine as directed. Pain medication should not be needed longer than 4 to 7 days. In infants, use only acetaminophen, if needed.

Call your pediatrician or surgeon if:

• Fresh bleeding occurs
• The entire penis looks red and swollen
• Pus drains from the incision
• Pain becomes severe or lasts for longer than expected

Review Date: 10/25/2006
Reviewed By: Daniel Rauch, M.D., FAAP, Director, Pediatric Hospitalist Program, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).