Frenuloplasty of the penis for individuals facing difficulty due to a short or tight frenulum (frenulum breve), which could lead to pain or repeated tearing. It is also called lengthening of the penile frenulum (banjo string) or removal of penile frenulum (penile frenulectomy)
There are three options concerning treating a tight frenulum:
- Observation: Suitable for mild cases with no specific treatment required.
- Circumcision with penile frenuloplasty: Removal of the foreskin along with the frenulum if the tight frenulum is associated with a tight foreskin (phimosis).
- Penile frenuloplasty only: A foreskin-releasing procedure that entails an incision on the frenulum to ease the tightness while retaining the foreskin.
Understanding Penile Frenuloplasty or Frenulectomy
Frenuloplasty addresses a short frenulum by lengthening it by suturing the skin lengthwise.
Here’s a breakdown of the procedure:
- Local Anaesthesia: Administered for a pain-free experience and post-operative pain relief.
- Incision and Reshaping: The frenulum is divided transversely and re-stitched lengthwise to increase its length, with adhesive applied to the site.
- Dissolvable Stitches: These stitches are used to close the wound and typically fall away within 2-3 weeks.
- Wound Sealing: Tissue glue is applied to seal the wound; sloughing occurs within 7-10 days.
- Bandaging: A loose bandage is applied and may be removed after 1-2 days.
Post-Procedure Care after frenuloplasty or frenulectomy
Upon returning home, here’s what to anticipate and how to care for the surgical site:
- Bruising and Swelling: You will get some bruising and swelling of the penis, which may last several days.
- Pain Management: Pain relief, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, may be used.
- Dressing: Remove any dressing within 24 hours or sooner if it becomes soaked with urine.
- Hygiene: Keep the area dry for 48 hours. Refrain from bathing for 10 days and from physical exercise for 2 weeks.
- Daily Retraction: Maintaining the surgical benefits after three days is essential.
- Sexual Activity: Avoidance for four to six weeks is recommended.
Benefits of Penile Frenuloplasty
- Retention of the foreskin.
- Reduction in the bending of the penis.
- Improved hygiene and reduced infection risk.
- Avoiding repeated tearing of the frenulum
- Removal of the attachment of the foreskin underneath the head of the penis
- Relief from painful sexual activities
Potential Risks and Alternatives
As with any surgical procedure, risks such as bruising, swelling, infection, or dissatisfaction with the cosmetic outcome are present. In some instances, a full circumcision may be advised as a permanent solution, particularly if the tight foreskin continues after frenuloplasty.
Consultation With Our Surgeons
We encourage a professional consultation with our specialist to gain a comprehensive understanding and personalised advice on penile frenuloplasty.