FRENULOPLASTY
Frenuloplasty is a procedure performed in men to lengthen the frenulum on the underside of the penis, allowing the foreskin to retract more freely.
This is a common procedure which all the urologists at Brisbane Urology Clinic are highly experienced in performing.
WHY IS FRENULOPLASY REQUIRED?
Frenuloplasty is performed to relieve discomfort which occurs with erections due to the frenulum being too short (frenulum breve).
WHAT DOES FRENULOPLASTY INVOLVE?
Frenuloplasty can be performed with local anaesthetic (numbing injection) or general anaesthetic (completely asleep).
A transverse incision is made across the frenulum. The incision is stitched back together longitudinally which lengthens the frenulum.
WHAT IS THE RECOVERY AFTER FRENULOPLASTY?
Frenuloplasty is usually performed as day surgery – you can go home on the same day of the surgery. If you have a general anaesthetic you will need to accompanied by a responsible adult.
There will be some swelling of the penis which will go away after a few weeks. It will take at least six weeks for the penis to reach its final appearance.
You will need to abstain from sex for four to six weeks after the procedure.
You can return to sedentary work the day after the operation. If your job involves physical work, please discuss this with your doctor.
It is usually safe to drive immediately after the operation. If you have a general anaesthetic you will not be able to drive for 24 hours.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF FRENULOPLASTY?
Common risks (1/2 – 1/10)
- Swelling of the penis lasting several weeks.
Occasional risks (1/10 – 1/50)
- Change in sensation in the head of the penis.
- Wound splitting open and taking longer to heal.
- Failure to improve your symptoms. In this case a circumcision may be required.
- The opening of the foreskin may become narrower making it more difficult to retract the foreskin (phimosis).
Rare risks (1/50 – 1/250)
- Tenderness over the scar.
- Bleeding requiring another operation to correct.
- Wound infection requiring antibiotics.
- Dissatisfaction with the final appearance of the frenulum or foreskin.
The risks of anaesthesia have not been listed here.
WHAT ARE THE ALTERNATIVE TREATMENT OPTIONS?
Alternatives to frenuloplasty include:
- Conservative management – no treatment.
- Division of the frenulum.
- Circumcision.