Adult Circumcision in Singapore

What Is Male Circumcision?

Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin.

At our clinic, our doctors are experienced in a range of circumcision techniques, including laser, ShangRing, stapler, and conventional circumcisions. We will also recommend the most suitable approach for your needs, whether for medical reasons or to achieve your preferred outcome.

Male circumcision is usually quick and well-tolerated; the procedure itself typically takes around 5–15 minutes. Dr Tan Kok Kuan is a well-regarded men's health and sexual health physician with over two decades of clinical experience and advanced expertise in various circumcision techniques, including the tissue-glue method.

Why Is Circumcision Done?

There are several common reasons why a doctor would recommend a circumcision:

1. Recurrent infections of the foreskin

   
   Some men experience repeated foreskin infections, especially if they have diabetes or are on certain diabetes medications. Circumcision can reduce the risk of these infections happening again.

2. Foreskin that is too tight (phimosis)

   
   When the foreskin is too tight to pull back comfortably, it can cause pain, infections, or affect sexual activity. Circumcision offers a permanent solution.

3. Foreskin stuck behind the head of the penis (paraphimosis)

   
   This is a medical emergency, as it can cut off blood flow and cause swelling. Circumcision prevents it from happening again.

4. Inflammation of the head of the penis (balanitis)

   
   Some skin conditions cause redness, irritation, or soreness of the glans (head of the penis). Circumcision may help in recurrent or severe cases.

5. Warts of the foreskin

   
   Warts caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) can be difficult to treat if they appear on the foreskin. Removing the foreskin may be necessary.

6. To improve sexual function

   
   In selected cases, circumcision can relieve discomfort and improve sexual satisfaction, especially when problems are linked to foreskin tightness.

Other Reasons for Circumcision

Besides medical necessity, individuals may choose to undergo circumcision for various personal, cultural or religious reasons:

1. Personal Preference

   
   This can include aesthetic reasons, a desire for better hygiene or it may be a family tradition.

2. Cultural or Religious Practice

   
   Circumcision is a traditional or religious rite in many cultures and faiths, such as Jewish and Islamic communities.

3. Elective Health Benefits

   
   Some opt for circumcision to potentially lower risks of infections or other health issues, even when it’s not medically required.

What Are the Benefits of a Circumcision?

Circumcision offers several important health and hygiene benefits:

• Easier Hygiene – Circumcision makes it easier to keep the penis clean, helping to reduce bacterial buildup and lower the risk of infection.
• Lower Risk of Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) – Circumcision reduces the likelihood of UTIs, especially during early childhood when these infections can lead to more serious complications.
• Reduced Risk of Certain Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) – Men who are circumcised may have a lower risk of contracting certain STIs, including HIV, especially when combined with safe sex practices.
• Prevention of Foreskin-related Conditions – It helps prevent issues like phimosis, paraphimosis and balanitis.
• Lower Risk of Cancer – Circumcision may reduce the risk of penile cancer and HPV transmission, which can lower cervical cancer risk in female partners.

Factors to Consider

Before undergoing a circumcision, it is important to consider several factors:

• Age

  - Circumcision can be done at any stage of life, though recovery is often quicker in children than in adults.

• Reason

  - Consider whether it is for medical treatment, cultural or religious practice, or personal choice.

• Cost

  - Expenses can vary depending on the method used, the facility, and whether it is medically required. Insurance or Medisave may help cover part of the cost in some cases.

• Recovery

  - Understand the recovery process, including expected healing time and any necessary post-operative care.

Circumcision Procedures

At Dr Tan Medical Center, we offer several advanced circumcision procedures:

• Shang Ring Method

  
  A suture-free procedure that uses a plastic ring to achieve a consistent result with reduced bleeding. The device remains in place for about 7–10 days before removal.

• Stapler Circumcision

  
  This method uses a surgical stapler to remove the foreskin and seal the wound at the same time. It usually results in less bleeding and avoids the need for stitch removal.

• Glue Circumcision

  
  Tissue glue is applied instead of stitches to close the wound, supporting healing and a neater incision line. The glue naturally falls off after 5–15 days.

• Laser Circumcision

  
  A laser is used to remove the foreskin, which may result in less bleeding and swelling. Recovery is often quicker than with traditional methods, with healing usually within 1–2 weeks.

You can decide on the look that you ultimately want to achieve after circumcision:

• Tightness

  - This refers to how much skin is removed. Some people prefer a very “tight” circumcision where all of the foreskin is removed. Some prefer a “looser” circumcision.

• High or Low

  - This refers to the amount of pink inner foreskin left behind. Some people prefer most of it removed, which is called a “high cut,” while others may prefer leaving some inner skin intact.

• Preputioplasty

  - This refers to a procedure where the tightness of the foreskin is corrected without removing the foreskin.

• Limited Circumcision

  - This refers to a procedure where only the tight ring of foreskin is removed, leaving most of the foreskin behind.

FAQs About Circumcision