Recurrence of Swelling Post-Circumcision Due to Phimosis and Infections
I am a 20-year-old male hailing from India, facing a particularly challenging and distressing health issue. Recently, I underwent a circumcision, motivated not only by the presence of phimosis (a condition where the foreskin is too tight) but also due to persistent infections, likely balanitis. These infections would repeatedly manifest, leading to inflammation, redness, and significant discomfort around the foreskin area. After enduring this for several months, my physician advised that circumcision would be the most effective, long-term fix. (Specifically, a low loose cut was performed). Following the procedure, I refrained from inspecting the inner foreskin for a span of 20 days, since retracting it was somewhat painful. However, I recently checked and was dismayed to discover that the redness and swelling had not dissipated. The condition appeared strikingly similar to what I had experienced prior to the surgery. I was genuinely taken aback, convinced that the removal of the foreskin would resolve my issues for good. The discomfort was so intense that even rinsing with water felt excruciatingly painful. The area that showed inflammation seems to be the remaining inner mucosa, which was left post-surgery. 🧬 Histopathology Analysis (of the excised foreskin): Results indicated chronic mucosal ulceration accompanied by acute inflammation and considerable granulation tissue. There was no evidence of bacterial infection, dysplasia, or vasculitis. My doctor mentioned that experiencing such inflammation again after having a circumcision is quite uncommon. He has recommended that I see a specialist in a nearby city for a more thorough assessment. It truly feels like all the surgery, the pain, and the trauma I underwent were in vain.
Answers (1)
7/18/2025, 10:10:46 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm truly sorry to hear about the ongoing discomfort and swelling you are experiencing after your circumcision surgery. It’s understandable to feel disheartened, especially when expecting relief from your previous issues.
Key Points:
- Recurrence of inflammation post-circumcision is uncommon but can occur, especially with underlying conditions.
- Your symptoms suggest a possible reaction of the remaining mucosal tissue or other factors such as irritation or sensitivity.
- It's important to approach this issue with ongoing care and specialized medical advice.
Explanation:
After circumcision, the remaining mucosal tissue can sometimes become irritated, especially if there are underlying issues such as dermatitis, chronic irritation, or sensitivity to hygiene products. The histopathology results indicate that there was significant inflammation and mucosal damage in the excised tissue, meaning your body may still be responding to previous conditions or even the surgical process itself in the remaining tissue.
Next Steps:
- Gentle Hygiene Care: Continue to keep the area clean but avoid harsh soaps or products. Use mild, unscented cleansers and lukewarm water to cleanse the area. After washing, gently pat the area dry.
- Moisturize: Consider applying a healing ointment or a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free moisturizer to the inflamed area to help soothe irritation. Make sure it’s safe for sensitive skin.
- Avoid Irritants: Stay away from any potential irritants like tight clothing, certain fabrics, or harsh detergents. These can exacerbate inflammation.
- Discuss Pain Management: If pain persists, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce discomfort. Ensure these are suitable for you, especially regarding dosing and any pre-existing conditions.
- Follow-Up with a Specialist: It’s important to heed your doctor's advice and see a specialist for a thorough assessment, as they can provide a tailored treatment plan, which may include possible topical treatments or interventions.
Keep track of your symptoms, noting any changes or triggers that worsen your condition. This information can be very helpful for the specialist in determining the best action moving forward. It's understandable to feel a sense of frustration and disappointment, but you're taking steps in the right direction to address your ongoing concerns. You're not alone in facing these challenges, and support is available to help you find relief.
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