Expert Advice for Caring for Your Surgical Site After Penile Lesion Removal
Last Friday, I underwent a vasectomy along with the removal of a penile lesion. Thus far, the recovery from the vasectomy appears to be progressing well. However, the area affected by the lesion is located at the point where my foreskin extends, and as someone who hasn’t been circumcised, I find it particularly challenging. Unfortunately, my physician did not provide much guidance on maintaining cleanliness in that area. Since I have an outdoor job in Florida, I’ve been showering twice daily and ensuring I gently pat the area dry after using the restroom. Today, I noticed a small trace of blood while drying off, which is concerning. I’m eager to receive any recommendations for properly caring for this area to encourage swift healing, as the presence of this dissolvable stitch is quite bothersome.
Answers (1)
9/9/2025, 7:01:23 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's great to hear that your recovery from the vasectomy is going well. Caring for the area after the removal of a penile lesion can be a bit more challenging, especially in a sensitive location like you described. It’s understandable that you are concerned about any unexpected bleeding and want to ensure proper healing.
Key Points:
- It's important to keep the area clean and dry.
- Monitor for signs of infection and excessive bleeding.
- Take steps to reduce discomfort while the stitch dissolves.
Explanation:
After a surgical procedure, especially in such a sensitive area, maintaining cleanliness while being cautious about irritation is vital. The bleeding you noticed could be part of normal healing, especially with activity or if the stitch has started to dissolve, but it's essential to keep an eye on it.
Next Steps:
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Gentle Cleaning: Continue to shower twice daily using mild soap. Avoid scrubbing the area; instead, let water rinse over it, and use your hands to gently cleanse.
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Drying Carefully: After washing, pat the area dry gently with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing, as it can cause irritation and further bleeding.
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Moisture Control: Since you have an outdoor job in Florida, consider wearing breathable, loose-fitting underwear to minimize irritation from sweating and friction. If possible, take breaks in a shaded area to help keep the area cooler.
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Monitor for Changes: Keep a close watch for signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or pus) or if the bleeding worsens. If you see significant bleeding or feel increased pain, it may be worth addressing that promptly.
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Stitch Care: Since dissolvable stitches can sometimes be bothersome, ensure you don't tug at them. If they become more irritating, a follow-up with your healthcare provider for advice may be prudent.
If the small amount of blood continues or worsens, or if you have any other concerning symptoms, consider documenting these changes and discussing them with your physician for tailored advice.
Take care, and remember that healing can vary, so give your body the time it needs to recover!
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