What causes swelling near my penis head after circumcision?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

You are now about four weeks after having a conventional circumcision, which is an important stage in the healing process. At this point, it is normal to experience some swelling, sensitivity, or dissolvable stitches that have not yet fully fallen off. Mild swelling around the ring just below the head of the penis (called the corona) is common. It can be caused by delayed absorption of the stitches, minor inflammation or fluid buildup from healing, or irritation from friction with clothing. This is usually not a cause for concern unless you notice symptoms like pus, yellow-green discharge, increasing redness, strong pain, fever, or a foul smell.

Sensitivity of the head of the penis is also common, especially for those who were not circumcised before and are now adjusting to direct exposure. This sensitivity usually improves over time. To manage it, you can wear snug but breathable underwear to reduce friction, apply a small amount of numbing gel (like Lidocaine 2 percent) once a day for a few days if the discomfort is significant, and avoid using harsh soap or scrubbing the area.

Having stitches still present at this stage is usually not a problem. Dissolvable stitches can remain for up to six weeks and may either fall off independently or be pushed out as the skin heals. If any stitches are still tight or embedded after six weeks, your doctor can gently remove them, which is a quick and painless procedure.

To care for the area now, continue applying Mupirocin ointment (or the ointment prescribed by your doctor) once or twice a day on any red or irritated spots, and use it for another five to seven days if you have not already stopped. Watch for warning signs such as worsening pain, redness, pus, swelling that becomes hard or larger, painful urination, or a bad smell. If any of these symptoms appear, contact your doctor right away.

In terms of recovery, the sensitivity usually improves by six to eight weeks, though it can take up to three months in some cases. Swelling should gradually decrease over the next two to three weeks, and stitches usually dissolve completely by the fifth or sixth week. Overall, your healing seems to be on track. Just give it a bit more time, and if the swelling gets worse or does not improve within the next two weeks, update your doctor or consider sending a photo for further guidance.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

The picture you have sent looks perfectly fine to me. (Attachment removed to protect patient’s identity).

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.