Medical Info: Circumcision

Circumcision involves removal of the foreskin of the penis. The only true benefit is that it makes the penis easier to clean. There have been no definitive medical studies that prove the medical necessity of circumcision. We feel that this procedure is a personal decision that should be made by you and your family. If you plan to have your son circumcised, it is best done during the first week of life, preferably in the hospital. If your infant is not circumcised in the hospital or at a birthing center, and you wish to have him circumcised in the office, tell the appointment desk when you schedule your appointment with the physician. This will insure that adequate time will be scheduled for the physician to perform the circumcision.

The circumcised penis may still have a Vaseline dressing in place when the baby is discharged from the hospital. This may be removed the day following discharge. If the dressing is adherent to the penis, soak the gauze for a few minutes with warm water and gently remove the gauze. After the dressing is off, the simple application of Vaseline at each diaper change is adequate. While healing, a yellow appearing material sometimes forms over the head of the penis. The circumcision is usually well healed in about 7-10 days. When washing the penis do not forcibly pull the foreskin back.