Circumcision involves the surgical removal of the skin that covers the tip of the penis – known as the foreskin. Circumcision has been performed for thousands of years in certain cultures and religious groups. The surgery is typically a matter of personal or family preference. There are some cases in which the foreskin is too tight over the head of the penis and it needs to be removed for medical reasons.

Who Is a Candidate?

Circumcision is typically performed on newborns. It can be performed on older males, though it is a more complex procedure.

What to Expect

Shortly after giving birth to a baby boy in the hospital, parents will routinely be asked if they wish to circumcise the baby. If they choose to do so, this is often done within a day or so of birth – while mom and baby are still in the hospital. Certain religious customs dictate specific timelines.

In newborn circumcision, the baby will lie on his back with arms and legs restrained. His penis and surrounding area will be cleaned thoroughly, and the doctor will inject a local anesthetic into the base of the penis. A specially designed ring will be attached to the penis, and the doctor will carefully remove the foreskin.

Once the procedure is complete, the doctor or nurse will cover the penis with ointment, such as petroleum jelly. You will be provided instructions on caring for the penis while the circumcision heals. The procedure takes only about 10 minutes.

When an older boy or adult male undergoes a circumcision, the procedure is fairly similar. However, he may need to be under general anesthesia (fully asleep) during the circumcision. Older males have an increased risk for complications and the healing period is often longer.

Why Choose UHealth?

Leading experts in urology care. At the Desai Sethi Urology Institute, our team of recognized surgeons, researchers, technologists, and nurses has expertise in every subspecialty of urologic care, including urologic oncology and urologic reconstruction. You receive treatment from an experienced team that can give you the latest therapies.

Leaders in robotic surgery treatment. We have some of the world’s most experienced robotic surgeons for urologic procedures. In fact, doctors come from all over the world to learn at our Urology Robotic Program — the #1 ranked program in South Florida. The University of Miami Health System was the first academic medical center in the world to get the da Vinci Xi robotic surgery system and has completed more than 5,000 robotic surgeries — procedures that offer less pain and scarring and a faster recovery.

Multidisciplinary approach to care. Your team works closely with doctors in radiology, pathology, medical oncology, and other specialties for prompt, accurate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment. You have a team of experts on your side.