Procedures
'Modern' Ring Method (Circumplast, Plastibell)
Suitable for ages 0 - 12
The 'modern' ring method is a commonly used circumcision technique for babies and young children. However, the 'traditional' Mogen Clamp method is also suitable. We will recommend the most appropriate method following an individual assessment of your child. When boys are born, the foreskin covers the end of the penis. Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin to expose the tip of the penis. A newborn must be healthy before the procedure can go ahead.
For the ring method procedure, the doctor places the baby on a secure procedure table and cleans the penis and foreskin. A plastic ring is placed over the head of the penis, and the foreskin is gently removed. Finally, ointment on some gauze is placed over the circumcision to protect it and reduce risk of infection.
The procedure is usually brief, and some babies may cry during or shortly after it. Local anaesthesia is used to reduce discomfort.
Below is an informative video you may find useful, comparing Circumplast® and Plastibell® devices.
'Traditional' Mogen Clamp Method
Suitable for all ages
The Mogen clamp method is also known as the 'traditional method'. To perform the Mogen Clamp method, the foreskin is retracted to free the head (glans), the clamp is carefully placed across the foreskin, and the foreskin is then removed.
For babies, we will put a dressing on. For older children, we can either use glue or stitches. For adults, we use stitches; the skin edges are sutured using dissolvable sutures. The wound is then cleaned with an antiseptic before dressing is applied. We will provide written aftercare instructions.
Patient Journey
- When you first get in touch with the clinic, we will ask a few questions about your or your child’s health.This helps us determine the most appropriate method of circumcision and ensures we have all the information needed to proceed safely.
- We will explain which circumcision method is most suitable for your child and outline any potential risks. Every child is different, so we assess each patient individually to determine the most appropriate method. Factors such as age, weight, and general health can influence which method we use.
- If you are happy to proceed, we will book an appointment and send you a text message confirming the date and time.
- When you arrive, you or your child will be registered. The procedure, risks, and aftercare will be explained again in full.
- You will then be seen in the consulting room to ensure the procedure can be carried out safely. There is plenty of time to ask questions, and once everything is clear, you will be asked to sign the consent form.
- A numbing cream will be applied to the base of the penis, which needs approximately 30 minutes to take effect. You will then be taken into the operating room, where parents are welcome to stay.
- For safety reasons in babies, a soft band will be placed around the upper thigh to prevent sudden movement during the anaesthetic. A small diabetic needle is used to administer the local anaesthetic.
- We will wait until the area is fully numb so no pain can be felt. Only then will the procedure be carried out. This approach ensures we minimise discomfort and avoid harm to your baby.
- You will move to a nearby room where you can feed or settle your baby.
- We will check the surgical site again after 15 minutes and every 15 minutes until we are satisfied there is no bleeding and your child has passed urine.
- Most families are able to go home within 2 hours of their appointment time.
- You will receive written aftercare instructions and a free care bag containing essential items for you, or your baby/child.
The care bag for babies and children contains Paracetamol (oral suspension), ibuprofen for children aged 1+, Germolene antiseptic cream, a pack of gauze, a measuring syringe for the paracetamol or ibuprofen, and a spray bottle (to make a salt-water solution for cleaning). The aftercare bag for adults contains a pack of gauze, bandages, scissors, plasters, and an antibiotic ointment. - You will be given a 24-hour emergency contact number. A letter will be sent to your GP, and you will have open access to the clinic during recovery, with follow-up visits arranged as needed until healing is complete.