Gone are the days when circumcision procedures were painful and took a long time to heal. Laser circumcision offers a modern approach to this procedure using a high-energy laser beam, offering cleaner, wound-free results with a quicker recovery process compared to other conventional techniques.
If you’re considering getting circumcised, learn more about this type of circumcision prior to making a decision. Read on!
What is Laser Circumcision?
Living up to its name, laser circumcision is a surgical procedure using a laser beam as the main tool to cut off the foreskin. The laser creates clean wound edges with little to no bleeding while conserving the surrounding tissue.
Compared to other types of circumcision, this procedure offers shorter operative time, less postoperative pain, better appearance, and a quicker healing period.
Not all laser beams can be used for this operative procedure, as they must be at certain wavelengths. Nd:YAG and CO2 lasers are commonly employed for this procedure.
When is Laser Circumcision Needed?
While some opt for laser circumcision due to personal preference, some have to undergo this procedure for specific reasons.
Phimosis
Phimosis is a condition where the foreskin area is too tight, preventing complete gland retraction and exposure. If not cleaned properly, this condition may harbour bacteria, resulting in infection. On top of that, a full penis erection will also be uncomfortable. Thus, a laser circumcision is beneficial.
Balanitis
Balanitis is an inflammation of the penis head and foreskin, often caused by infection or poor hygiene. Symptoms include redness, itching, and pain. It’s treatable with good hygiene, medication, and removal of the foreskin or circumcision. Circumcision can remove the infected foreskin and stop the disease.
Cosmetic or Personal Preference
Circumcision itself is a personal preference. Some may want to undergo male circumcision, while some may not. Similarly, laser procedure is also a personal preference. Most people choose this option due to the cosmetic appearance of the result when opting for male circumcision type.
How to Prepare for Laser Circumcision Surgery?
Preparing for a laser circumcision surgery involves several efforts, including:
- Share your complete medical history with your doctor. This will help them tailor the surgery preparation instructions more effectively.
- Avoid eating anything for 6-8 hours prior to the procedure if your surgery is under general anesthesia.
- Don’t drive by yourself after surgery.
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco consumption for at least 48 hours before the surgery to prevent it from interfering with the healing process.
- Take at least a week off from manual labour work if you’re going to have open surgery.
Laser Circumcision Procedure
This surgery is an advanced procedure performed by a professional surgeon. It begins with anesthesia and positioning and ends with wound closure.
Anesthesia & Positioning
Before the procedure, the patient is positioned to lie comfortably on their back with legs apart. The surgeon gives them anesthesia afterwards.
Laser Incisions
The surgeon marked a line on the foreskin to ease the precise incision with a laser beam. The laser then cuts through tissue while simultaneously sealing blood vessels, minimizing bleeding.
Foreskin Removal
The surgeon carefully removes the excess foreskin using the laser, aiming to achieve a clean, aesthetic appearance result.
Hemostasis
After foreskin removal, the laser will seal any remaining blood vessels. This is a crucial step, as it ensures minimal bleeding and promotes faster recovery.
Wound Closure
Finally, dissolvable sutures or tissue glue is used to approximate and close the wound edges. This is the last vital step, ensuring proper healing and preventing complications.
What to Expect After Laser Circumcision?
Laser circumcision is day surgery. Patients only undergo the procedure for less than 30 minutes of operating time and can leave the hospital a few hours afterwards. Typically, penile discomfort and swelling last 3-4 days, while full recovery takes one week.
The surgeon may recommend you drink a lot of water, refrain from sexual activity for 2-3 weeks, apply petroleum jelly to the tip, and drink painkillers for aftercare.
Frequently Asked Questions
How painful is laser circumcision?
The procedure itself is not painful, as anesthesia is applied. However, you may feel slight postoperative discomfort.
Is laser circumcision risky?
The laser technique is usually not risky, but risks may appear if the patient doesn’t follow the surgeon’s guidelines or if there is a complication during surgery, which is rare.
Can I walk after laser circumcision?
Yes! 48-72 hours after surgery, it is recommended that you keep your body moving by walking lightly.
Conclusion
Laser circumcision is an excellent alternative for those wanting a quick, pain-free procedure with a short recovery period. Circumcision using a laser also results in a clean, wound-free appearance. At the Circumcision Specialist Clinic, we provide expert care to ensure a comfortable experience for both adults and infants.
Reach out today to learn more or schedule your consultation!