Information for parents of patients
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Your son has had a prepuceplasty. This is simply a foreskin-releasing procedure. An incision is made on either side of the foreskin to widen it, thus allowing full retraction.
This will allow them to retain their foreskin but at the same time be able to keep the area underneath clean. Y-V prepuceplasty may be an excellent alternative to full circumcision for boys over 16 years and adults with tight foreskin who want to keep their foreskin.
Prepuceplasty can also be called Preputioplasty.
This operation does have some complications such as:
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Bleeding
- Infection
- No improvement of symptoms
- Scarring
- May go on to need full circumcision.
What can I expect when we get home?
If your son complains of pain you should give him paracetamol and/or ibuprofen. You should always follow the instructions given in the leaflet supplied with the medication. If the pain becomes severe or continues you should contact your GP for advice.
When your son goes to the toilet to pass urine (wee) it may sting at first. If your son is having difficulty passing urine it may help to sit him in a bath of lukewarm water. It is very important to encourage him to drink plenty of fluids.
When your son arrives home after the operation he may eat and drink as normal.
If your son:
- Has any heavy bleeding.
- Feels feverish, unwell or develops a high temperature over 38C you should contact your GP (during normal surgery hours).
Outside surgery hours you should contact 111, the Paediatric assessment unit or Children’s Ward for further advice. (See contact numbers).
What activities should my son avoid?
For the first 24 hours after a general anaesthetic your son:
- Must be supervised by an adult at all times.
- Must not go back to school.
- Must not lock the toilet or bathroom door in case they need help.
- Your son should avoid sports and games for at least 2 weeks.
What wounds and dressings will my son have?
Your son will have sutures (stitches) that will dissolve in about 14 – 21 days and do not need to be removed.
During the first few weeks your son can expect some swelling and possibly slight bleeding from his wound. Wearing loose clothing may be more comfortable and soft paraffin (Vaseline) may help the prevention of sticking to clothes or nappies.
Post-surgery you will need to encourage your child to retract the foreskin daily for up to 6 weeks, so it does not close again. It is normal for this to be painful so analgesia and praise may help them throughout the process.
Will he be able to have a bath or shower?
It is important to keep his wound site clean. He should have a bath or shower after 24 hours, twice a day if possible. You should make sure the area around his wound is dried gently and thoroughly by patting with a clean soft towel. Other than when having a bath it is important to keeping his wound dry.
Will he be able to play when he gets home?
Yes. Let him do what he feels able to do; he will know when to slow down. It is better to avoid boisterous (rough) play or riding bikes, if possible for 1 – 2 weeks.
Will he be able to go to school, nursery or a playgroup?
Your son should have 2 – 3 days’ rest. He can return to school when he is walking normally and feeling comfortable. He may tire easily; this is normal and will pass. Please let your son’s school, nursery or playgroup know he has had an operation.
Contact numbers
University Hospital of North Tees
Children and Young person’s Emergency Department (CYPED)
Telephone: 01642 624533
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Further information is available from:
NHS Choices
Telephone: 111 (when it is less urgent than 999) Calls to this number are free from landlines and mobile phones or via the website at www.nhs.uk
References
https://www.topdoctors.co.uk/medical-dictionary/preputioplasty
Comments, concerns, compliments or complaints
Patient Experience Team (PET)
We are continually trying to improve the services we provide. We want to know what we’re doing well or if there’s anything which we can improve, that’s why the Patient Experience Team (PET) is here to help. Our Patient Experience Team is here to try to resolve your concerns as quickly as possible. The office is based on the ground floor at the University Hospital of North Tees if you wish to discuss concerns in person. If you would like to contact or request a copy of our PET leaflet, please contact:
Telephone: 01642 624719
Freephone: 0800 092 0084
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:00pm
Email: [email protected]
Out of hours
Out of hours if you wish to speak to a senior member of Trust staff, please contact the hospital switchboard who will bleep the appropriate person.
Telephone: 01642 617617
Data protection and use of patient information
The Trust has developed Data Protection policies in accordance with Data Protection Legislation (UK General Data Protection Regulations and Data Protection Act 2018) and the Freedom of Information Act 2000. All of our staff respect these policies and confidentiality is adhered to at all times. If you require further information on how we process your information please see our Privacy Notices.
Telephone: 01642 383551
Email: [email protected]
Privacy NoticesLeaflet feedback
This leaflet has been produced in partnership with patients and carers. All patient leaflets are regularly reviewed, and any suggestions you have as to how it may be improved are extremely valuable. Please write to the Clinical Governance team, North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, University Hospital of North Tees, TS19 8PE or:
Email: [email protected]
Leaflet reference: PIL1173
Date for Review: April 2027
