Stapler Circumcision Surgery – Procedure, Recovery & Benefits

Circumcision is a surgical procedure that has been practiced for centuries and holds both cultural and medical significance. Over time, different methods of circumcision have emerged, aiming to improve the surgical process and outcomes. 

One such technique gaining popularity is stapler circumcision, which offers various benefits over traditional methods of circumcision, such as open circumcision. This blog will explore the stapler circumcision procedure, the recovery process, its potential benefits, and everything else you may need to know.

What is Stapler Circumcision?

Stapler circumcision is an advanced and minimally invasive urological procedure that is performed to remove the foreskin using a stapler device. This disposable surgical tool is specially designed to cut and remove the foreskin. 

Stapler circumcision can be recommended for various reasons. In some cases, it is performed as an effective treatment for foreskin conditions such as phimosis and balanitis.

While in other cases, it is done for religious or cosmetic reasons. If you are struggling with any foreskin condition or just looking to undergo the procedure for religious or cosmetic reasons, a stapler circumcision may be a suitable option for you. Let us now discuss how to prepare for a stapler circumcision procedure.

How To Prepare for Stapler Circumcision Surgery?

To ensure a smooth and complication-free procedure, your urologist will likely ask you to follow some simple steps before arriving at the hospital, such as:

• Leave any jewelry, contact lenses, or other ornaments at home. You do not need them in a hospital, and they may interfere with the procedure 
• Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes that do not rub against your body, especially your groin. 
• Discuss the dietary precautions you need to take for the surgery with your urologist. Usually, urologists instruct patients not to eat or drink anything for 12 hours before surgery. 
• Due to anesthetic after-effects, you won’t be able to drive yourself home after the surgery. It is advisable to ensure you have someone to drive you home or at least accompany you in a cab. 
• Refrain from consumption of alcohol or smoking for at least 48 hours before the surgery. These can not only slow down your recovery process but may also result in anesthesia-related complications.
• Arrange for time off from work for at least a couple of days after the surgery, as you may not be able to return to work immediately after the surgery.

How is Stapler Circumcision Performed?

A stapler circumcision is generally performed on an outpatient basis and does not take more than 15-20 minutes to complete.

It can be performed under local or general anesthesia, but local anesthesia is usually preferred. The surgery will only begin once you are completely numb due to the effects of anesthesia. 

To reduce the risk of infection, the penis is cleaned and disinfected, and the stapler device is fitted on the penis. This is a crucial step, as improper placement could lead to tearing of the foreskin or an unsatisfactory cosmetic outcome. If placed properly, a stapler device fits snugly around the penis.

Your surgeon will once again ensure that the stapler is placed correctly and, once satisfied, will fire the stapler. As the stapler device is fired, it cuts and removes the foreskin in a quick motion while simultaneously closing the incision wound with a silicone ring.

This silicone ring helps minimize bleeding and promote healing. Once the incision wound has healed completely, which generally takes anywhere from 7-14 days, the silicone ring will fall off on its own.

Once the foreskin has been successfully removed, the device is taken off, and the penis is pressed with a gauge to stop any bleeding that may have occurred.

The wound is dressed, and you will likely be moved to a recovery area. If your condition is stable after the surgery, you can go home. 

What to Expect after Stapler Circumcision Surgery

A stapler circumcision procedure is generally performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home on the same day of surgery.

After the surgery, it is also likely that your urologist will schedule some postoperative follow-up consultations to ensure a smooth recovery. 

During these visits, your urologist will examine the surgical site and check for signs of excessive bleeding, infection, or any other complication.

The doctor will also likely ask if you have noticed any odd signs of recovery. If recovery is going as expected, the wound will be left open to recover. Once the incision wound has healed, the silicone ring will fall off on its own in about 7-14 days after surgery. 

While a complete recovery can take anywhere from 1-2 weeks, you can return to work in just a few days after surgery. However, it is imperative to avoid sexual intercourse for at least 4-5 weeks after surgery. You should also avoid strenuous exercises like running or weight lifting as they may strain the muscles surrounding the penis and delay recovery.

Recovery After Stapler Circumcision

Recovery after stapler circumcision surgery generally takes anywhere from 7-14 days. Most patients can return to their daily activities in 2-3 days. However, every patient has different healing capabilities. Depending on your overall health and quality of postoperative care, the exact time to recovery may vary.

In this period, it is crucial to strictly follow any guidelines or precautions set by your urologist to not only minimize the chances of any postoperative complications but also boost recovery. Some guidelines or precautions that your urologist may suggest to you after your circumcision surgery include:

• Keeping the surgical site dry and dry. 
• Refraining from smoking or drinking alcohol.
• Staying hydrated. Drink 7-8 glasses of water every day.
• Avoiding swimming pools or public baths. 
• Refraining from sexual intercourse until your doctor thinks it’s safe to do so.
• Refraining from any strenuous exercise that may exert excessive pressure on your penis or its surrounding area.

Benefits of Stapler Circumcision

Alongside its ability to safely remove the foreskin, stapler circumcision offers several advantages over traditional circumcision methods. Some of the key benefits that are commonly associated with stapler circumcision include: 

• Minimal Blood Loss: A stapler device is specially designed to minimize bleeding as much as possible and provide adequate hemostasis. As the foreskin is cut, a stapler device closes the incision wound almost immediately with the help of a silicone ring. This reduces the risk of complications associated with excessive bleeding.
• Quick Recovery: Patients undergoing stapler circumcision often experience a faster recovery compared to traditional circumcision methods. The reduced tissue trauma and precise wound closure contribute to a quicker healing process.
• Minimal Operative Time: A stapler circumcision allows quicker removal of the foreskin. Generally, the stapler circumcision procedure does not last for more than 15-20 minutes. 
• Lower Risk of Infection: The sterile disposable nature of the stapler device reduces the risk of infection associated with reusable surgical instruments. The incision wound is almost immediately closed off using a silicone ring. This results in minimal environmental exposure of sensitive tissue. 

Complications associated with Stapler Circumcision?

While complications of any kind either during or after a stapler circumcision procedure are rare, they can still happen. Some complications that are commonly associated with a stapler circumcision surgery are given below:

• Infection: Although chances of an infection after a stapler circumcision are minimal, it can still occur and should not be taken lightly. Symptoms of infection generally include fever, chills, redness, and drainage of yellowish pus from the incision site. If you start noticing any of the mentioned symptoms, it is advised to contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible.
• Excessive Bleeding: While some mild to moderate bleeding is to be expected after a surgical procedure, excessive bleeding may be a sign of complication. If you notice any excessive or persistent bleeding, it is advised to inform your healthcare provider about it immediately.
• Abnormal Healing: As is the case with any other surgical procedure, chances of abnormal healing are present with stapler circumcision as well. Before surgery, your urologist will likely perform a series of tests to understand your overall health better and minimize any chances of abnormal healing.
• Insufficient Removal of the Foreskin: Due to the incorrect placement of the stapler device, there may be insufficient removal of the foreskin. This could result in ineffective treatment or unsatisfactory cosmetic results. In such a case, you may require revision procedures for correction.
• Inclusion Cysts: As the circumcision site is healing, inclusion cysts may form along the cut edge. These cysts are thought to result from smegma accumulating in the incision. Inclusion cysts may be asymptomatic, but surgical excision may be necessary if size or infection is problematic.
• Reaction to Anesthesia: Most side effects related to anesthesia usually subside on their own. However, if they persist, it is advisable to contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Some adverse reactions to anesthesia include nausea, vomiting, chills, confusion, muscle ache, and dizziness.

What is the estimated cost of Stapler Circumcision?

On average, stapler circumcision costs in India can range anywhere from Rs. 26,000 to Rs. 35,000. However, the overall surgery cost is likely to vary depending on various factors such as consultation and operating charges, the city you are in, hospital charges, and preoperative tests and diagnostics. 

Is Stapler Circumcision Covered by Insurance?

Yes, a stapler circumcision procedure is covered by health insurance plans if the reason behind your surgery is deemed to be a medical necessity.  However, insurance coverage is highly unlikely if you are undergoing the procedure for religious or cosmetic reasons. Prior to surgery, it is best to have a detailed discussion about the exclusions and inclusions of your stapler circumcision surgery with your healthcare provider.

FAQs About Stapler Circumcision

How long does a stapler circumcision surgery take?

A stapler circumcision procedure is generally performed on an outpatient basis and does not take more than 15-20 minutes to complete. However, you should expect to spend at least a few hours at the hospital after the procedure. 

Can a newborn baby be circumcised through a stapler circumcision procedure?

Yes, a stapler circumcision procedure is a completely safe procedure for male babies, adolescents, young adults, and older men. Most urologists prefer using a stapler device as the foreskin is cut in one quick motion through a pre-attached stapler.

Do I need to visit a doctor to get the silicone ring removed?

No, you do not need to visit your doctor to get the silicone ring removed. Typically, the silicone ring will fall off on its own once the incision wound has healed completely (which generally takes about 7-14 days). However, if you notice any pain or discomfort caused by the silicone ring, it is advised to inform your doctor about it as soon as possible.

Can I have sex after the stapler circumcision procedure?

Most urologists recommend that male adults should abstain from sex for at least 42 days after their circumcision procedure. Resuming sex before the circumcision wound has healed could increase the risk of HIV. An open wound or any inflammation could facilitate the transmission or acquisition of the virus. 

What should I wear after my stapler circumcision procedure?

After your circumcision procedure, it is advised to wear underwear that is comfortable for you. Avoid tight-fitting clothes that may put too much pressure on the surgical site. Instead, wear snug-fit clothing that provides enough support to your penis and keeps it held upright. 

Can I exercise after my circumcision procedure?

While it is completely fine, and even encouraged, to perform low-impact exercises such as walking after circumcision, any strenuous activities should be avoided. They may exert too much pressure on the surgical wound and slow down the healing process. Before resuming your workout routine, it is advised to consult with your urologist first. 

Conclusion

Stapler circumcision is an advanced and minimally-invasive surgical procedure. It offers several benefits to patients, such as reduced recovery time, lower risk of infection, and minimal blood loss.

However, each patient’s case is unique, and the decision to undergo a stapler circumcision should be made only after consulting an experienced and qualified urologist. With a skilled surgeon’s right approach and guidance, this technique can be a safe and effective option for patients seeking circumcision surgery. 

Circumcision can be an effective solution for various foreskin-related problems or a ritual of religious significance. No matter the reason behind your surgery, proper consultation is always essential. Contact us today and book your appointment with our team of highly trained and experienced urologists.