Circumcision for Children

What is circumcision?

Circumcision is a surgical procedure to remove the foreskin (the fold of skin covering the head of the penis). In children, circumcision is usually performed for medical reasons, although some families choose the procedure for cultural or religious reasons.

Our experienced paediatric surgeons perform circumcision using modern surgical techniques in a safe, child-friendly environment. Before recommending surgery, your consultant will carefully assess your child to determine whether circumcision is the most appropriate treatment or whether less invasive options may be suitable.

Why might my child need a circumcision?

Most boys do not require circumcision. In young children, it is completely normal for the foreskin to be non-retractable, and this usually resolves naturally as they grow.

Circumcision may be recommended if your child has:

  • Pathological phimosis (a scarred or persistently tight foreskin)
  • Recurrent episodes of balanitis (infection or inflammation of the foreskin)
  • Balanitis xerotica obliterans (BXO)
  • Recurrent urinary tract infections associated with foreskin problems
  • Persistent pain or difficulty passing urine caused by foreskin disease
  • Recurrent tearing or bleeding of the foreskin

Your consultant will explain the benefits, risks and alternatives before recommending surgery.

What happens before the operation?

Before the procedure, your child will attend a consultation with one of our paediatric surgeons. This includes a detailed medical history, examination and an opportunity for you to ask any questions.

If circumcision is recommended, you will receive clear information about preparing your child for surgery, including fasting instructions before the general anaesthetic and what to expect on the day of the operation.

What does the procedure involve?

Circumcision is performed under a general anaesthetic, meaning your child will be asleep throughout the operation. The surgeon carefully removes the foreskin before closing the skin with fine dissolvable stitches.

The procedure usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes, although you should expect to be at the hospital for several hours. Most children are able to return home on the same day once they have recovered from the anaesthetic.

Recovery after circumcision

Most children recover quickly following circumcision. It is normal for the penis to look swollen, bruised or slightly red for the first week or two. A yellow coating may also develop over the wound during healing—this is a normal part of the healing process and is not usually a sign of infection.

Parents can help by:

  • Giving pain relief as advised by your consultant
  • Encouraging regular drinks and gentle activity
  • Keeping the area clean and dry
  • Avoiding swimming, cycling and contact sports until healing is complete
  • Dressing your child in loose-fitting clothing to reduce discomfort

Most children return to school or nursery within a few days, although more active sports should be avoided for around two to three weeks.

Are there any risks?

Circumcision is a commonly performed procedure with a high success rate. As with any operation, there are some potential risks, although serious complications are uncommon.

These include:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Swelling
  • Temporary discomfort during healing
  • Rarely, problems with wound healing or cosmetic appearance

Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you before the operation and explain how they are minimised.