Phimosis and Short FrenulumThis consists of an excess of skin (foreskin or prepuce) surrounding the penis, making retraction behind the glans (head of the penis) difficult. It may pose problems in sexual activity and hamper adequate hygiene. In such cases, it is preferable for the glans (head of the penis) to be partially or completely uncovered.
A diagnosis is made by means of a physical exam and treatment consists in the removal of the excess of skin (foreskin or prepuce) through outpatient surgery under local anesthesia. Once the excess skin (foreskin or prepuce) is extracted, stitches are applied to the periphery of the penis joining the remaining skin. The procedure lasts 20-30 minutes. A compression bandage is applied for a few days after surgery and the wound must be disinfected with iodine solution for 4-5 days.
Involuntary erections occurring during nighttime or morning can lead to considerable discomfort. To avoid these, keep the penis or buttocks in sustained contact with a cool surface.
The surgical procedure does not usually carry risk of complications, however a hematoma may occasionally develop.
The Frenulum is a small band of fibrous material found between the glans and the foreskin or prepuce. When excessively short, it may suffer damage during sexual activity, giving way to abundant bleeding due to trauma sustained by the so-called frenular artery. In such a circumstance, pressure by means of compression bandage should be applied to the area and medical help sought. Frenuloplasty is the prescribed treatment for this problem, consisting in the division, or sectioning off, of the Frenulum. This is a very simple procedure performed through outpatient surgery under local anesthesia.