Frequently asked questions for Frenuloplasty and Frenulectomy
What does the procedure involve?
This is the surgical treatment for a short penile frenulum by dividing the skin across and re-suturing in a lengthwise fashion, to relive the causative skin band.
What are the alternatives to this procedure?
Circumcision and observation.
What should I expect before the procedure?
The history taking, examination and pre-assessment is done approximately 7-14 days before procedure, to assess suitability,general fitness and to perform some baseline investigations if needed.
The patient can eat or drink as usual before surgery as the procedure is performed under local anaesthesia.
Please be sure to inform us in advance of your surgery if you have any of the following:
1. An artificial heart valve
2. A heart pacemaker or defibrillator
3. An artificial joint
4. An artificial blood vessel graft
5. A neurosurgical shunt
6. If you are on Warfarin, Aspirin or Clopidogrel (Plavix®)
What happens during the procedure?
Under local anesthesia, the skin under your penis will be cut across and repaired lengthwise to lengthen the frenulum by approximately 0.5 centimetres.
What happens immediately after the procedure?
You may experience some discomfort for a few days after the procedure. Absorbable stitches are normally used which do not require removal and will dissolve and fall off spontaneously in a few weeks.
Vaseline should be applied to the tip of the penis and around the stitch line to prevent the penis from adhering to underclothes and it is advisable to wear loose-fitting clothing for 2-3 days. It is also advisable to retract the foreskin daily to prevent scarring and shortening of the frenulum. Passing urine will be painless and will not be affected by the operation.
Are there any side-effects?
Most procedures have a potential for side-effects. You should be reassured that, although all these complications are well-recognised, the majority of patients do not suffer any problems after a the procedure.
Common (greater than 1 in 10)
Swelling of the penis lasting several days and It can be a bit sensitive.
Occasional (between 1 in 50)
Infection of the incision requiring further treatment.
Bleeding of the wound rarely needing a further treatment.
Rare (less than 1 in 50)
Altered sensation of the penis temporarily.
Scar tenderness for some time.
Failure to be completely satisfied with the cosmetic result.
Further need for circumcision procedure if the procedure fails to improve symptoms.
What should I expect when I get home?
It will take about 10 days for healing to occur and you may return to work when you are comfortable enough. You should refrain from sexual intercourse for a minimum of 6 weeks.
What else should I look out for?
There may be some swelling of the penis after a few days. This will last 3-4 days and will then subside but do not be alarmed because this is expected. If you develop a temperature, increased redness, throbbing or drainage at the site of the operation, please contact your us.