Spire Roding Hospital in Redbridge, Essex (on the borders of East London) offers the circumcision operation to children over 3 years of age in a clean and comfortable, private hospital environment. All of the paediatric surgery procedures at Spire Roding are day case-only, and available to children from 3 - 16 years of age. Our surgeons are all highly experienced, GMC registered and well established in their field of expertise.
What is child circumcision surgery?
Child circumcision is a simple operation which involves the removal of the foreskin from the penis. The foreskin is a sleeve of skin which covers the delicate end of the penis.
Why do people choose circumcision?
Child circumcision is commonly carried out on infants as a religious act in Judaism and Islam, as well as for cultural reasons in other parts of the world including the USA, where around 9 out of 10 men are circumcised.
There are also medical reasons why circumcision may be carried out, usually for older children or adults, however alternative treatments are preferred where possible.
From birth the sleeve of the foreskin is attached to the head of the penis (also known as the glans) and around age three to four the sleeve gradually detaches itself.
Medical problems may arise if the sleeve of the foreskin is too tight (also known as phimosis) and does not easy pull back over the glans. This can cause swelling or pain when your child tries to pass water. Recurrent infection under the foreskin is another common reason for circumcision.
Aside from the physical discomfort a tight foreskin can cause, persistent problems may also cause psychological trauma.
What happens in child circumcision surgery?
During the procedure the narrow sleeve of the foreskin will be trimmed away and remaining skin edges are stitched together, usually with dissolvable stitches that do not need to be removed afterwards.
If the procedure is carried out on a small baby usually only a local anaesthetic will be given. For older children it may be recommended that the procedure be carried out under general anaesthetic so that your child is asleep throughout the operation.
The operation is a simple one and usually you can take your child home the same or next day.
Child circumcision aftercare
After the operation it is likely that your child will experience some discomfort as the wound heals. This can be relieved using mild painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen and should subside as the area heals.
The wound will be covered with a moist dressing, secured in place using elastic net pants, which can usually be removed the next day. Your child will need around 10 days or so to recover before he can return to school and around one month before he can engage in any sports.
Is child circumcision available on the NHS?
Circumcision surgery is currently being restricted by the NHS in some areas of the UK and waiting lists are becoming significantly longer. For these reasons many people opt for private treatment.
Why should I consider having my child circumcised at a Spire hospital?
Whether you have medical insurance or are paying for your treatment yourself, with Spire Healthcare you will be seen quickly by the consultant-grade doctor of your choice at a time that suits you. You will be treated in a premium private hospital with some of the UK's highest standards of cleanliness and infection control.
To find out more about having your child circumcised privately or to get a guide price, simply