Vasectomy, Circumcision & Frenuloplasty

Dunedin Skin and Surgery Clinic provides selected male minor procedures in Dunedin, including needle-free no-scalpel vasectomy, circumcision, frenuloplasty and frenulectomy. All procedures are provided following confidential consultation, clinical assessment and discussion of treatment options, risks, benefits, alternatives, recovery and follow-up care.

1. Circumcision

Circumcision is a surgical procedure to remove the foreskin of the penis. It may be considered for medical, functional, personal or cultural reasons. Medical reasons may include persistent or troublesome phimosis, recurrent foreskin infections, balanitis, scarring conditions such as lichen sclerosus, or urinary problems related to a tight foreskin.

In babies and young boys, a non-retractile foreskin can be normal and often improves naturally with time. In some cases, treatment such as steroid cream and gentle stretching may be appropriate before surgery is considered. Circumcision is usually considered when symptoms are persistent, recurrent, severe, or when non-surgical treatment has not helped.

Circumcision may not be suitable in some situations, including active infection, significant bleeding disorder, some congenital penile conditions such as hypospadias, or buried penis where foreskin may be needed for future reconstructive treatment. Suitability is assessed during consultation.

At Dunedin Skin and Surgery Clinic, circumcision is performed under local anaesthetic for suitable patients. The procedure, expected recovery, risks, aftercare and follow-up are discussed before surgery. After the procedure, some swelling, bruising, mild bleeding or discomfort can occur and usually settles with time. Patients are given clear wound care instructions and advice on when to seek medical review.

2. Vasectomy

Dunedin Skin and Surgery Clinic offer needle-free no-scalpel vasectomy for suitable patients seeking a permanent contraception option.

Vasectomy involves dividing or blocking the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles. After vasectomy, sperm can no longer enter the semen. The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic and is usually completed through a very small opening in the scrotal skin.

Vasectomy should be considered permanent. It does not affect testosterone levels, erections, orgasm or ejaculation volume in the usual way, but it does prevent sperm from being present in the semen once clearance is confirmed.

After the procedure, patients are advised to rest, use simple pain relief if needed, and avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise and sexual activity for a short period as advised. Some bruising, swelling or discomfort can occur. Less common complications include infection, bleeding, sperm granuloma or persistent scrotal ache.

Vasectomy is not immediately effective. Another form of contraception must be used until follow-up semen testing confirms that sperm are no longer present.

3. Frenuloplasty and Frenulectomy

A tight or short penile frenulum can cause pain, pulling, tearing, bleeding or discomfort during erection or sexual activity. This may occur whether or not a patient has previously had circumcision.

Frenuloplasty is a minor procedure to release and lengthen a tight frenulum. Frenulectomy involves removal or division of the tight frenulum where clinically appropriate. The aim is to reduce tension, discomfort and recurrent tearing.

At Dunedin Skin and Surgery Clinic, frenuloplasty and frenulectomy are performed under local anaesthetic for suitable patients. A confidential consultation is provided to assess the concern, explain treatment options and discuss risks, recovery and aftercare.

Please contact the clinic to arrange a consultation with Dr Sharma.