Partial Circumcision for Male Adults – What You Need to Know

Are you considering partial circumcision?

 Whether partial circumcision is due to tight foreskin (phimosis), personal preference, or hygiene reasons, understanding your options (partial or complete circumcision) is essential. At our clinic, led by Specialist Mr A R Khan and Consultant Urologists, we offer professional preoperative consultation and treatment for men seeking partial circumcision in our CQC-registered clinic and a designated operation theatre under local anaesthesia.

What Is Partial Circumcision?

Partial circumcision involves removing only part of the foreskin, leaving some coverage over the head of the penis (glans). This differs from full circumcision, where the entire foreskin is removed, fully exposing the glans.

This procedure may be suitable for some adult men who wish to retain some foreskin while addressing issues such as phimosis (tight foreskin) or recurrent infections.

Why Choose Partial Circumcision?

Some men prefer partial circumcision for:

Sexual comfort and sensitivity: Retaining some foreskin may preserve natural sensation during intercourse.

Personal preference: Some individuals feel more comfortable keeping part of their foreskin for aesthetic or cultural reasons.

False impression: In overweight men or those with diabetes, full circumcision can sometimes give the appearance of a buried or hidden penis when flaccid.

However, it is essential to understand that partial circumcision is not always recommended by the British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) because of the potential long-term complications of partial circumcision.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Partial Circumcision?

Partial circumcision may be considered for adults with:

1. Mild to moderate phimosis

2. No significant scarring or chronic inflammation like balanitis xerotica obliterans (BXO)

3. No anatomical abnormalities affecting the foreskin or genital area

4. If your foreskin is severely scarred, stuck, or affected by conditions like BXO, full circumcision is usually the preferred treatment option.

The Procedure: What to Expect

Our specialist performs partial circumcision under local anaesthesia, ensuring minimal discomfort during the operation. 

Surgical Steps Include:

• Local anaesthetic injection to numb the area

• Removal of the inflamed inner foreskin (mucosa)

• Partial excision of the outer foreskin

• Joining the remaining inner and outer skin layers using surgical glue and/or dissolvable stitches

• A neat scar line that typically heals well

• Surgical glue reduces infection risk and improves cosmetic outcomes compared to traditional stitching methods.

• Stapler ZSR can be used for partial circumcision in some cases.

Benefits of Partial Circumcision

Preservation of foreskin: Maintains some natural penile anatomy and function

Potential for improved sexual experience: Some patients report better comfort and sensitivity

Keratinisation of glans: The exposed glans becomes tougher and less sensitive, which may help reduce irritation

Less dramatic change in appearance: Suitable for men who are hesitant about completephimosis removal of the foreskin

Risks and Disadvantages of Partial Circumcision

While partial circumcision offers benefits, it also comes with risks and limitations:

Secondary phimosis: Scar tissue may contract over time, causing tightness again

Need for revision surgery: Some men require a second operation if the foreskin tightens post-healing

Unpredictable cosmetic outcome: Healing and appearance can vary between individuals

Risk of infection, bleeding, and prolonged swelling: These are minor complications that will settle down with or without antibiotics

Note: There is currently no conclusive medical evidence comparing partial vs full circumcision in adults. However, recurrence rates after partial circumcision in children have been reported up to 5.5% (Annals of Pediatric Surgery, 2018).

Recovery After Partial Circumcision

Swelling: Expected for the first few days and subsides within 10–15 days

Healing Time: Wounds generally heal within 2–4 weeks

Time off work: Most patients take 5-7 days off after the procedure

Sexual activity: Avoid all sexual activities and strenuous exercise for at least 4–6 weeks

You will receive detailed aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal healing.

Cost of Partial Circumcision

At our clinic, partial circumcision under local anaesthesia costs £875, performed by our specialist with extensive urological experience.

When Is Partial Circumcision Not Recommended?

Partial circumcision may not be suitable if:

1. Your foreskin is severely scarred or thickened due to BXO or repeated infections

2. You have significant anatomical abnormalities

3. Other treatments (e.g., steroid creams) have failed

4. There is concern about future recurrence or the need for reoperation

5. In these cases, full circumcision is often the safest and most effective solution.

Our Expertise and Approach for Circumcision

Led by Specialist Mr A R Khan and Consultant Urologists, our team has years of combined experience treating phimosis, balanitis, and other foreskin-related conditions. We follow circumcision guidelines from the British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) and provide individualised care based on your medical history and preferences.

We believe in informed decision-making and will discuss the pros and cons of partial circumcision in detail before proceeding.

Conclusion

Partial circumcision may be a viable option for some adult men looking to retain part of their foreskin while managing tightness or discomfort. However, weighing the long-term risks —especially recurrence and cosmetic concerns—against the potential benefits is important.

 If unsure whether this procedure suits you, we encourage you to book a consultation with our specialist. We will determine the most appropriate treatment tailored to your condition of the foreskin and expectations.

📞 Contact us today to speak with our urologist +447527314081 or schedule a consultation or procedure online.

References:

1.        British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) – Tight Foreskin (Phimosis)

2.        Modified partial circumcision for phimosis: techniques and surgical outcomes – Annals of Pediatric Surgery 2018, 14:151–156