Most people hear about circumcision and immediately think of young children, but adult men may also need to undergo circumcision. To explain the specifics, let’s hear from Director Ye Daoyin of the Jing Shun Urology Department.
For most men, the phimosis phenomenon will automatically disappear around the age of eighteen as long as development is good. However, there are also some people who, even after reaching adulthood, still have the glans covered by the foreskin. If phimosis is not treated promptly, with the glans being tightly wrapped by the foreskin for a long time, it can lead to poor penis development after puberty and may also affect sexual intercourse.
What problems can phimosis bring us?
1. Incarcerated phimosis: When the foreskin is retracted over the corona, the constricted foreskin forms an incarceration ring at the corona, causing incarcerated phimosis, leading to congestion, edema, infection, or necrosis of the foreskin.
2. Impact on urine flow: This can be due to a small foreskin opening or adhesion between the foreskin and glans. Excessive foreskin length can lead to adhesions due to inflammation, causing phimosis. A small foreskin opening can affect urine flow. Excessive foreskin length does not necessarily mean phimosis, but phimosis can involve excessive foreskin length. Phimosis is more serious than excessive foreskin length.
3. Potential infections: Sediments and smegma in the urine can accumulate inside the foreskin, becoming breeding grounds for bacteria. Irritation can lead to inflammation and infection, possibly causing foreskin adhesions, and in severe cases, infertility.
4. Vulnerability to sexually transmitted diseases: Due to the long foreskin or phimosis, the inner foreskin and glans may often be in a moist environment, making it susceptible to diseases such as genital warts and gonorrhea. Additionally, inadequate cleaning may lead to the partner developing related gynecological diseases.
Aside from the medical necessity, circumcision also has a certain impact on the psychological state and lifestyle of men. Many adult men facing phimosis or excessive foreskin length may encounter inconvenience or embarrassment in life, potentially leading to decreased self-esteem and negative effects on confidence and sexual life. Some men may develop feelings of inferiority in intimate relationships due to foreskin-related issues, affecting their mental health.
Circumcision can help men regain confidence and improve their quality of life. Men after the surgery often notice that the appearance and function of their genital organs have been optimized, which not only benefits their self-image but also enhances intimacy with their partners. Furthermore, this surgery can prevent potential health problems such as urethral infections and balanitis. If such problems are left unresolved for a long time, they may lead to more severe health issues.
Therefore, adult men should thoroughly consider their own circumstances when deciding whether to undergo circumcision, weighing the pros and cons of the surgery. Consultation and discussion with Director Ye Daoyin can help clarify the surgical process, risks, and postoperative care requirements, assisting men in making more rational decisions.
