Circumcision is one of the oldest and most commonly performed surgical procedures in the world, and in adult men it remains an effective method of treating several common urological problems — primarily phimosis and recurrent inflammation. However, many questions and myths have grown around the procedure. In this comprehensive guide, we explain what circumcision is, when it is indicated, which methods are used, what recovery looks like, and how the procedure affects hygiene and sexual life. The text was created for adult men considering the procedure and was consulted with urologists.
Circumcision (Latin: circumcisio) is a surgical procedure involving the partial or complete removal of the foreskin — the movable fold of skin covering the glans penis. In adults, it is usually performed on an outpatient basis, under local anaesthesia, and the patient returns home the same day. Depending on the indications and preferences, the entire foreskin may be removed — complete circumcision — or only part of it, leaving a fragment that still covers the glans — partial circumcision.
“In adults, circumcision is most often a medical decision, not merely a cosmetic one. Before referring a patient for the procedure, we carefully assess whether it is truly necessary and what extent of surgery will be optimal.”
— Dr Jakub Kłącz, MD, PhD, urologist
In adult men, the most common reason for the procedure is discomfort or medical problems related to the foreskin. Typical indications include:
Some men also choose the procedure for hygienic, religious, cultural or aesthetic reasons. Whether circumcision is justified in a given case is always decided by a urologist after examination.
Circumcision is associated with several health benefits, although they should be considered with appropriate caution and in an individual context:
These benefits do not mean that every man should be circumcised — in men without symptoms, the decision remains individual.
“Circumcision is not a miracle cure for everything and it does not replace safe sex. But in specific indications — such as phimosis or recurrent inflammation — it can genuinely improve a patient’s comfort and health.”
— Dr Jakub Krukowski, MD, PhD, urologist
Today, the procedure can be performed using several techniques. The choice depends on anatomy, indications and the patient’s expectations:
A detailed comparison of the methods and their prices can be found on the circumcision procedure page.
“There is no single best method for everyone. The classical method gives the best control over the result, the stapler method is often faster, and the laser reduces bleeding. We choose the method individually during the consultation.”
— Jakub Gondek, MD
Are you considering circumcision?
On the procedure page, you can compare methods, check prices and book a urological consultation in Gdańsk.
See procedure details and prices →Before the procedure, the doctor takes a medical history and performs an examination. The patient should inform the doctor about any medications being taken, especially blood-thinning medications, as well as any allergies. On the day of the procedure, hygiene of the intimate area and loose, comfortable underwear are recommended.
In adults, the procedure is performed under local anaesthesia — the operated area is completely anaesthetised, which makes the procedure painless.
The procedure itself usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. The surgeon removes the excess foreskin using the selected method, closes the wound with sutures — usually absorbable ones — and applies a dressing. After a short observation period, the patient returns home the same day.
Healing takes place in stages and is individual, but it usually looks as follows:
During healing, it is worth following the recommendations regarding dressings and hygiene, and wearing loose underwear.
“The most common mistake after the procedure is returning too quickly to physical activity and intercourse. Patience during the first weeks translates into better and more aesthetic healing.”
— Dr Jakub Kłącz, MD, PhD, urologist
Like any surgical procedure, circumcision involves a small risk. The most common, usually mild problems include:
The vast majority of complications are mild and easy to manage when the patient follows postoperative instructions.
This is one of the most common concerns among men considering the procedure. Available studies indicate that in most patients circumcision does not significantly worsen sexual function or satisfaction with intercourse. Some men report changes in sensation, but most often these do not negatively affect sexual quality of life. After the procedure, temporary abstinence is necessary until healing is complete.
“Patients most often ask whether they will lose sensation. In most men, sexual satisfaction remains at the same level, and many report improved comfort — especially those who previously suffered from phimosis or pain.”
— Dr Jakub Krukowski, MD, PhD, urologist
If the foreskin problem is not advanced, the doctor may suggest less invasive options:
The best option is chosen by the urologist after examination — it is worth discussing this during a urological consultation.
Not during the procedure — it is performed under local anaesthesia. After the anaesthesia wears off, discomfort may persist for several days and can be relieved with standard painkillers.
In adults, usually 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the method and the individual situation.
Yes — it is an outpatient procedure, and after a short observation period the patient returns home.
Usually after a few days in the case of office work; intense physical activity and sexual intercourse should be limited for several weeks, according to the doctor’s recommendations.
In some cases, yes — alternatives may include conservative treatment or foreskin plasty. The decision is made by the urologist after examination.
Would you like to discuss circumcision with a urologist?
Experienced urologists in Gdańsk will assess the indications, choose the appropriate method and answer your questions — discreetly and without haste.
Book a consultation in Gdańsk →Circumcision is a safe and effective procedure that in adults most often solves the problem of phimosis and recurrent inflammation, while also making hygiene easier. Several methods are available — classical surgical, stapler and laser — and they are selected individually. In most men, the procedure does not negatively affect sexual life and often improves comfort. The best first step is a urological consultation, during which the doctor will assess the indications and present possible options.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace a medical consultation. The indications, choice of method and possible effects are determined by the doctor during the visit.