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Not an emergency service. If you or someone else is seriously unwell — for example chest pain, breathing difficulty, heavy bleeding or collapse — call 999. For urgent advice when it is not life-threatening, call NHS 111.

Recovery & Aftercare Guide

Circumcision

Non-medical circumcision performed by a GMC-registered surgeon.

Important. Your individual instructions from your treating clinician take precedence over this general information. If anything here differs from what your clinician has told you, follow your clinician’s advice and contact the hospital if you are unsure.

Overview

Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin. This service is provided for non-medical reasons.

The procedure is planned in advance, with consent discussed fully beforehand.

Healing takes approximately 2 to 4 weeks. Swelling and bruising in the first week are expected.

Before your procedure

  • Attend the pre-procedure consultation and ask any questions before consenting.
  • Tell the team about all medicines, particularly anticoagulants and antiplatelets. Do not stop prescribed medicine unless instructed.
  • Mention allergies, especially to anaesthetic agents, latex or dressings.
  • Follow the specific fasting instructions given to you. These depend on the type of anaesthesia planned.
  • Arrange for a responsible adult to take you home and, where advised, to stay with you.
  • Bring loose, supportive underwear and loose trousers.
  • Bring a list of your medicines and your consent paperwork.

What happens on the day

  1. You will be admitted and checked in, and the surgeon will confirm the plan and consent with you.
  2. Anaesthesia is given as discussed at your consultation. Follow the specific instructions you were issued.
  3. The procedure itself is usually completed within the time your surgeon has explained.
  4. A dressing is applied. You will be observed until the team is satisfied you are ready to go home.
  5. You will be given written aftercare and a follow-up arrangement before you leave.

Aftercare

Pain

Discomfort is usual for the first several days and typically eases from day 3 to 5. Take pain relief as advised by your surgeon.

Swelling and bruising

Swelling and bruising of the area are expected in the first 7 to 10 days and then settle.

Dressings

Follow your surgeon's specific dressing instructions. Do not remove a dressing early unless told to.

Bathing

Follow the washing instructions you are given. Showering is usually permitted before bathing or soaking.

Underwear

Wear supportive, close-fitting underwear rather than loose boxers, as support reduces swelling and discomfort.

Stitches

Dissolvable stitches are commonly used and separate on their own over 2 to 4 weeks.

Activity

Rest for the first 48 hours. Avoid strenuous activity, cycling, gym work and heavy lifting for at least 2 to 4 weeks.

Driving

Do not drive until you can perform an emergency stop comfortably and are no longer taking sedating medication.

Work

Desk work is often possible after a few days. Manual or physically demanding work usually needs 2 weeks or more.

Sexual activity

Abstain from sexual activity and masturbation until your surgeon confirms healing is complete, commonly around 4 to 6 weeks.

Erections

Night-time erections can be uncomfortable in the first week or two. This settles as healing progresses.

Follow-up

Attend the follow-up appointment arranged for you, even if you feel well.

Typical recovery timeline

Timings are typical and vary between individuals.
WhenWhat to expect
First 48 hoursRest. Swelling and discomfort are at their greatest. Support and pain relief matter most now.
Days 3 to 7Discomfort begins to ease. Swelling and bruising remain visible.
Week 2Swelling reduces noticeably. Stitches begin to separate. Light activity resumes.
Weeks 3 to 4Most stitches gone. Everyday activity comfortable. Healing continues.
Weeks 4 to 6Healing usually complete. Sexual activity only once your surgeon confirms it is appropriate.

Red flags — when to seek help

These lists are not exhaustive. Trust your judgement and seek advice if you are worried.

Emergency Call 999 or go to your nearest emergency department

  • Bleeding that does not stop after 10 minutes of firm, continuous pressure
  • Inability to pass urine
  • Severe pain not relieved by the pain relief you have been given
  • Feeling generally unwell with a high temperature, shivering or confusion

Contact us Contact the hospital, or call NHS 111 out of hours

  • Spreading redness or increasing swelling after the first 48 hours
  • Pus or offensive discharge
  • Wound edges separating
  • Persistent difficulty or burning on passing urine
  • Any concern about the appearance of healing

Tower Bridge Hospital, 97–99 Whitechapel Road, London E1 1DT. Telephone 020 7916 0029. If in doubt and the situation is not life-threatening, call NHS 111.

Frequently asked questions

How long until I can return to work?

Desk work is often possible within a few days; physical work usually needs 2 weeks or more. Your surgeon will advise for your situation.

When can I exercise again?

Light activity after about 2 weeks and strenuous exercise usually after 4 weeks, on your surgeon's advice.

Are the stitches removed?

Dissolvable stitches are commonly used and separate on their own. Your surgeon will tell you what was used.

Is night-time discomfort normal?

Yes, particularly in the first week or two. It settles as healing progresses.

More information

Clinical reviewer
Dr Haydar Bolat, Clinical Director
Review date
21 July 2026
Review by
21 July 2027
Version
1.0
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