Circumcision

Circumcision clinic in Toronto

(Educational Content Only – We Do Not Offer This Service)

Circumcision at Any Age

Toronto men can choose circumcision at any age. Some men will opt to be circumcised for religious reasons, and others choose it because of a medical condition such as phimosis (an uncomfortably tight foreskin). Many choose adult circumcision for personal and cosmetic reasons.

In fact, even though the surgical removal of the male foreskin is typically performed on babies, an increasing number of men in North America are choosing this minor procedure later in life.

Getting Circumcised as an Adult

If you were not circumcised as a baby, you may have considered it. The topic is discussed online and in pop culture more often today. While research regarding the health benefits is not conclusive, men from diverse backgrounds in Toronto have questions regarding the procedure. They may have recently become aware that there is a simple outpatient procedure to change from “uncut” to “cut.” They may also be experiencing discomfort, sexual performance issues, or health-related problems such as recurring infections. Removal of the foreskin is not always the right solution for health conditions related to the penis, but for some men, it can change life for the better.

The most common age to perform adult circumcision is between 18 and 40 in most cases, but the decision to be circumcised is a personal one that can be made at any age.

What Is Circumcision?

Circumcision is a minor surgical procedure designed to remove the foreskin that covers the head of the penis. For social, cultural, and religious reasons, circumcision was routinely performed on newborn boys in Canada in the past. However, today it has become less common, and the Canadian Paediatrics Society no longer recommends routine circumcision. It does, however, acknowledge the potential health benefits related to sexually transmitted diseases (STD) and hygiene.

Microorganisms can accumulate under the foreskin, and if consistent washing isn’t maintained, conditions like balanitis (inflammation of the glans) can develop. A build-up of secretions may also lead to odour and urinary tract infections.

Phimosis is the medical term describing a tight, restrictive foreskin that occurs in roughly 1 in 20 male youths and adults. Circumcision is very effective to correct the condition.

There are also studies suggesting a notable reduction in certain STD health risks for men and their sexual partners after circumcision.

Typically, adult circumcision is performed under general anesthesia and sometimes using local anaesthetic and IV sedation.

The entire procedure takes about 30 minutes, and recovery can be as quick as 3 to 5 days. The loose foreskin tissue is excised at the base of the glans, then thin sutures or glue closes the incisions. Scars are typically faint and blend well with the natural contours of the penis anatomy.

Adult Circumcision Costs in Ontario

OHIP, Ontario’s provincial health coverage, will pay for adult male circumcision in cases where the procedure is classified as medically necessary. When there is not a medical condition to warrant circumcision, patients pay privately for the procedure.

Some clinics partner with reliable medical financing companies who can help offset the cost for your convenience.

What Is the Recovery Like After Circumcision in Toronto?

After your procedure, you’ll have a small bandage applied to the treatment area. You’ll be advised to keep it protected until your follow-up appointment a few days afterwards.

You’ll be provided with detailed recovery instructions, a prescription for medication to take, and a series of post-op appointments to follow your progress and answer any questions you have.

Most patients describe the discomfort following circumcision as manageable with over-the-counter pain medication and rest. You will have dissolvable sutures that remain in place for roughly 2 to 3 weeks. You can expect some extra sensitivity and mild swelling in the treatment area during that time.

If you have a strenuous job, an extended time off work will be recommended for you. Likewise, you’ll need to postpone going to the gym, submerging in water (such as swimming or hot tubs), and sexual activity for a while. Usually, activity restrictions last 2 to 3 weeks, and 1 month of abstaining from sex is advised. Light work and many other activities can be resumed right away.