Phimosis

Restoring Comfort, Confidence, and Function

What Is Phimosis?

Phimosis occurs when the foreskin cannot be fully retracted over the head of the penis. While it’s more common in children, some adults continue to experience tightness, discomfort, or inflammation that interferes with hygiene, intimacy, or daily life. At The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction, our reconstructive urology team offers effective treatment options to relieve pain, restore function, and help patients regain confidence in their sexual health.

In adults, phimosis can be caused by:

Chronic inflammation or infection (balanitis or balanoposthitis)
Scarring from prior injury or trauma
Skin conditions such as lichen sclerosus
Recurrent irritation or poor hygiene
Tightness that persisted from childhood

Phimosis can range from mild tightness to complete inability to retract the foreskin. Over time, it may lead to pain, inflammation, or complications such as urinary obstruction or infection. Additionally, the inability to visualize the glans can lead to missed cancer diagnoses.

Common Symptoms of Adult Phimosis

Adults with phimosis may experience:

Pain, tightness, or swelling during erection or sexual activity
Difficulty cleaning beneath the foreskin
Recurrent redness, itching, or irritation
Ballooning of the foreskin during urination
Small tears or scarring at the foreskin opening
Anxiety or self-consciousness related to appearance or function

Even if you’ve lived with symptoms for years, treatment can often provide lasting relief and improve quality of life.

Causes and Risk Factors

Adult phimosis may develop after years of inflammation, scarring, or skin changes. Common causes include:

Chronic infections or poor hygiene
Scarring from repeated tearing or friction
Underlying dermatologic conditions
Complications from prior procedures or trauma

Because phimosis can sometimes be related to other urologic or skin disorders, evaluation by a reconstructive urologist is essential to identify the underlying cause and choose the best treatment.

Advanced Treatments for Phimosis

Our reconstructive specialists tailor treatment to each patient’s comfort, goals, and overall health. Treatment options may include:

Topical Therapy
In mild cases, prescription corticosteroid creams can reduce inflammation and improve elasticity of the foreskin.

Preputioplasty (Foreskin-Preserving Surgery)
A reconstructive approach that widens the foreskin opening without full removal, preserving natural appearance and function when possible.

Circumcision (Adult)
For patients with significant scarring, infection, or recurrent symptoms, circumcision removes the tight foreskin and restores long-term comfort and hygiene.
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Reconstructive Revision Surgery
In cases complicated by scarring from prior procedures or infections, advanced reconstructive techniques may be used to restore normal anatomy and appearance.
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Our team will help you understand each option and guide you toward the solution that aligns with your goals for comfort, appearance, and long-term wellness.

Are You a Candidate?

You may be a candidate for phimosis treatment if you experience:

Pain, tearing, or tightness of the foreskin
Difficulty cleaning or retracting the foreskin
Recurrent infections or inflammation
Concerns about sexual comfort or appearance

Even if your case has been described as “too advanced,” our reconstructive team specializes in treating complex or previously unsuccessful repairs. Schedule a consultation to explore your options.

Meet the Team

Our reconstructive urology team provides advanced surgical expertise with a patient-first approach. Each specialist is experienced in the delicate balance of restoring both function and confidence.

Physician

Alex Xu

Frequently Asked Questions About Phimosis

Will I need surgery to correct phimosis?
Not always. Mild phimosis can sometimes be treated with medication or foreskin-preserving techniques. Your doctor will recommend the least invasive option that provides lasting results.

What is recovery like after circumcision or preputioplasty?
Most patients return home the same day. Mild swelling or tenderness is normal for the first week. Complete healing typically occurs within a few weeks, and results are long-lasting.

Will treatment affect sensitivity or sexual function?
Our reconstructive team prioritizes both form and function. Most patients report improved comfort, sensitivity, and confidence after recovery.

Does insurance cover treatment?
Phimosis correction is generally considered medically necessary. Our coordinators can assist you in verifying coverage and benefits.

Do I need a referral to see a specialist at The Institute?

No referral is required. Patients may request an appointment directly. If another doctor referred you, we will collaborate with your care team to ensure seamless communication.

How do I know if The Institute is the right place for me?

Patients travel to us from across the country and around the world because of our rare expertise in pelvic and urologic nerve surgery. If you’ve been struggling without answers, our team can provide a clear diagnosis and treatment plan.

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