The Love Doctor

Dear Love Doctor,

Is there an age limit on getting circumcised? I'm in my early 30s and want to get snipped. I won't go into all the reasons, except to say that one of them is aesthetic. I like the look.

All of my partners have been cut at childhood, and I have wanted to get it done for some time but didn't have the money un til now.

But, one of my friends says I'm crazy. He likes the "natural" look but he also says it is dangerous to have done when you an adult. Is that true?


Signed,

Clip Me

Dear Clip,

While most circumcisions are done on babies, a lot of adults also have the procedure. (And, for that matter, a lot of men who have been circumcises as babies are getting 'reconstructive' surgery today).

Circumcision is performed on an estimated one out of six male newborns worldwide Over 60 percent of male newborns were circumcised in the United States in 1992, the last time anyone counted.

There are a number of benefits of circumcision. Hygiene will be simpler and may result in fewer local infections, and at least one scientific study suggests partners of circumcised men appear to have lower rates of HIV although this has not been conclusively proven.

There are a couple of things to note though. First, and foremost, any surgery can have its complications. These can become more serious the older a patient is. But, as surgery goes, unless there are other medical problems it is a relatively simple operation.

Second, you will be out of commission for several weeks following the operation while you heal. Possible complications of adult circumcision include infection, bleeding, poor cosmetic results and a change in sensation during intercourse.

Adult circumcision can be performed under local or regional anesthesia. The procedure is commonly performed using either the dorsal slit or the sleeve technique. Your doctor can explain both methods to you.

Full recovery following circumcision generally requires four to six weeks of abstinence from all genital stimulation and sexual activity.

Your GP can refer you to a doctor, and while you are there, you might like to inquire about all of the cosmetic surgery that is also available for that area of your anatomy, like lengthening, shortening, thickening. It's all available these days.

The Love Doctor

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