Post-Operative Instructions: Circumcision, Chordee Release & Correction of Penile Torsion

ACTIVITY
Infants should have their diapers changes more frequently and avoid swimming, straddle toys, walkers, and the like for 3-4 weeks.  Older children should avoid roughhousing, running, climbing, bike riding, swimming, etc. When your child is comfortable, he may return to school (approximately 2-4 days).  Your child should avoid bumping the surgical area until healing has taken place.  Remember that children often feel better before healing is complete and cannot be relied upon to limit their activities by themselves.

CARE OF INCISION
A clear plastic “band aid” is often used to cover the penis.  This usually falls off by itself within a few days.  If it does not fall off within 72 hours you may gently peel it off.  However, if it slides down to the base of the penis it may constrict the penis and it should be removed.  Begin giving a warm tub bath 48-72 hours after surgery and everyday thereafter, rinse well (use Ivory).  Do not scrub penis, just wash gently.  May go without wearing pants for a day or so for more comfort.  DO NOT use baby powders.  Bacitracin or Neosporin ointment may be purchased over-the-counter without a prescription and applied to the penis to prevent sticking to the diaper or underwear (DO NOT use pain relief Neosporin).  You may see a tannish film form on the tip of the penis; do not worry.  This is normal and is not an infection.

STITCHES
The stitches dissolve by themselves, but may not entirely dissolve for several months.

DIET
Start with clear liquids-soup, Kool-aid, Pedialyte, pop or juice (breast milk is a clear liquid), and progress gradually to a normal diet.  If taking formula, try half-strength formula first (half water/half formula) and then progress to full strength.  He may take regular food only after he is tolerating full strength liquids well (usually the day after surgery).

PAIN
May give Tylenol every 4 hours if needed for discomfort.

Dose:  
4-11 months 80 mg  = four times/day  
12-23 months 120 mg = four times/day 
Over 2 years Read dosage instructions on bottle  

You will also receive a prescription for Codeine to use if regular Tylenol does not help to relieve the discomfort.

WHEN TO CALL DOCTOR

• Swelling that does not gradually lessen (usually swelling should be minimal by one week).
• Any bright red bleeding that does not stop with gentle pressure-take your child to the Emergency room. 
• Foul smelling pus-like discharge

FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENTS
Call our office at (248) 519-0305 for an appointment in 2 weeks.