Written and clinically reviewed by Dr Brendan Dias
Consultant Urologist & Robotic Surgeon · MBBS, MS (General Surgery), DrNB (Urology), IntFRCS (England), FUSANZ, FRACS (Urology)
Last clinically reviewed: 6 June 2026
Adult Circumcision in Melbourne — Overview
Adult circumcision is one of the most commonly performed urological procedures, and yet it is one men often delay — usually because they are unsure what the operation involves, how uncomfortable recovery will be, or whether they will need a general anaesthetic and a hospital stay.
Dr Brendan Dias offers circumcision in Melbourne under either local anaesthetic in the rooms or general anaesthetic in hospital, so the procedure can be tailored to your preference, anatomy and medical history. This guide walks through who needs circumcision, what happens on the day for both options, the recovery timeline, and the questions men most commonly ask.
Why Adult Men Need Circumcision
Adult circumcision is almost always performed for a medical reason. The most common indications include:
- Phimosis — a tight foreskin that cannot be retracted over the head of the penis
- Recurrent balanitis or balanoposthitis — repeated infections of the glans or foreskin
- Paraphimosis — a foreskin that becomes trapped behind the glans and cannot be reduced
- Lichen sclerosus (BXO) — a scarring skin condition that progressively tightens the foreskin
- Foreskin splitting or tearing with intercourse
- Persistent hygiene difficulties due to a tight or redundant foreskin
- Penile lesions requiring removal of foreskin skin
- Personal, cultural or religious preference
A full assessment with Dr Dias will confirm whether circumcision is the right option, or whether a conservative approach (steroid creams, hygiene measures) may resolve the problem.
Local Anaesthetic in the Rooms vs General Anaesthetic in Hospital
One of the advantages of seeing Dr Dias is that you can choose how your procedure is performed. Both pathways use the same surgical technique and produce the same cosmetic result — the only difference is the anaesthetic and setting.
Local Anaesthetic in the Rooms
- No hospital admission required
- You remain awake and comfortable throughout
- Lower overall cost (no hospital or anaesthetist fees)
- Same-day discharge — you go home shortly after the procedure
- Suited to most men with a straightforward indication and no significant anxiety
General Anaesthetic in Hospital
- You are completely asleep during the procedure
- Suited to men with significant anxiety, complex anatomy, severe phimosis, lichen sclerosus, or those who prefer to be asleep
- Performed as day surgery — you are discharged the same day
- Covered by private health insurance for medical indications; Medicare rebates also apply
- Allows simultaneous treatment if other minor procedures are required
Dr Dias will discuss both options at your consultation and help you decide which is most appropriate for your situation.
What to Do Before the Procedure
- Shave the pubic area and base of the penis the morning of the procedure (only if asked)
- Wear snug, supportive underwear (briefs, not boxer shorts) on the day and for 1–2 weeks afterwards — this reduces movement and swelling
- Arrange transport home — essential after general anaesthetic; recommended even after local anaesthetic
- Fast as instructed if you are having a general anaesthetic (typically 6 hours of no food, 2 hours of no clear fluids)
- Take time off work — most men need 1–2 weeks, longer for physically demanding jobs
- Discuss blood thinners (aspirin, clopidogrel, warfarin, apixaban) with Dr Dias well before the procedure — some may need to be paused
What Happens on the Day
1. Consent and Preparation
You'll have a brief discussion to confirm the indication, plan and any final questions. The area is cleaned with antiseptic and draped with sterile covers. You'll be lying on your back throughout.
2. Anaesthetic
For local anaesthetic in the rooms, a small amount of local anaesthetic is injected around the base of the penis (a penile block) and into the foreskin itself. There is a brief sting lasting a few seconds, then the area becomes completely numb within 5–10 minutes.
For general anaesthetic in hospital, you are taken to theatre and gently put to sleep by the anaesthetist. You will not be aware of any part of the procedure.
3. The Circumcision (30–45 minutes)
The foreskin is carefully marked to ensure appropriate skin removal and a good cosmetic result. The foreskin is then removed using a precise surgical technique, any small bleeding vessels are sealed, and the skin edges are closed with fine dissolvable sutures. A protective dressing is applied.
4. Recovery
After local anaesthetic in the rooms, you'll rest briefly before walking out and going home. After general anaesthetic in hospital, you'll spend 1–2 hours in recovery before being discharged. Either way, you can eat and drink normally afterwards.
Recovery Timeline
| Timeframe | What to Expect | What to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Day 0–1 | Numb area wears off; mild–moderate ache; rest at home | Driving (if GA), alcohol, strenuous activity |
| Days 2–3 | Peak swelling and bruising; regular pain relief helpful | Exercise, prolonged standing, baths |
| Week 1 | Swelling settling; most desk workers return to work | Heavy lifting, swimming, sexual activity |
| Weeks 2–3 | Sutures dissolve and fall out; bruising resolves | Sexual activity and masturbation |
| Weeks 4–8 | Return to full activity including sex (after 4–6 weeks); final cosmetic result | Nil — full recovery |
Wound Care
Keep the area clean and dry for the first 24–48 hours. After that, gentle showering is encouraged — pat the area dry rather than rubbing. Avoid baths, swimming pools and spas until the wound has fully healed (usually 2–3 weeks). A small amount of yellow tissue around the suture line is normal and not a sign of infection.
Pain Relief
Regular paracetamol (1g every 6 hours) and ibuprofen (400mg every 8 hours with food) manages discomfort well for the vast majority of men. Stronger pain relief is rarely needed. Ice packs (wrapped in a cloth) applied for 20 minutes at a time can help with swelling in the first 48 hours.
Erections
Spontaneous erections, particularly overnight, are normal and expected — they can be uncomfortable in the first 1–2 weeks but do not damage the repair. Avoid sexual activity and masturbation for 4–6 weeks to allow the sutures and skin to fully heal.
Risks and Potential Complications
Circumcision performed by an experienced urologist is a very safe procedure. Potential complications include:
- Bleeding or haematoma (uncommon) — usually settles with pressure; rarely needs return to theatre
- Wound infection (rare) — managed with antibiotics
- Wound dehiscence — separation of the skin edges; usually heals without further surgery
- Altered sensation — typically temporary while the glans adapts
- Cosmetic dissatisfaction — uncommon with experienced surgery; revision rarely needed
- Meatal stenosis — narrowing of the urethral opening (rare)
- Need for revision surgery — <1%
About Dr Dias and the Circumcision Service
Dr Brendan Dias is a specialist urologist who performs adult circumcision for medical indications across his Melbourne clinics. Procedures can be arranged under local anaesthetic in the rooms or under general anaesthetic in hospital, depending on your preference and clinical needs.
Dr Dias consults at multiple locations in Melbourne's western and northern suburbs and operates at a number of leading hospitals. You'll receive thorough pre-procedure counselling, a clear written quote, and personalised follow-up to ensure the best possible cosmetic and functional outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is adult circumcision done under local or general anaesthetic?
Dr Dias offers adult circumcision under either local anaesthetic in the rooms or under general anaesthetic in hospital. The choice depends on patient preference, anxiety levels, the underlying condition (e.g. tight phimosis or lichen sclerosus), and any other medical considerations. Both approaches achieve the same surgical and cosmetic result.
How long does the procedure take?
The circumcision itself takes approximately 30–45 minutes. If performed in the rooms under local anaesthetic, you'll be in the clinic for around 60–90 minutes including preparation and a short recovery period. In hospital under general anaesthetic, you'll be discharged the same day, usually within a few hours of the procedure.
Does adult circumcision hurt?
During the procedure you will feel no pain — either the local anaesthetic completely numbs the area, or you will be asleep under general anaesthetic. Afterwards, mild to moderate discomfort, swelling and bruising are normal for the first 2–3 days and are well managed with paracetamol and ibuprofen.
How long does recovery take?
Most men take 1–2 weeks off work depending on their job. Swelling peaks at 2–3 days and gradually improves over 2–3 weeks. Dissolvable sutures fall out over 2–3 weeks. Sexual activity, including masturbation, should be avoided for 4–6 weeks. Final cosmetic appearance is achieved by 6–8 weeks.
When should I see a urologist about my foreskin?
You should see a urologist if you have a tight foreskin that won't retract (phimosis), recurrent foreskin or glans infections (balanitis), a foreskin that becomes trapped behind the head of the penis (paraphimosis), white scarring of the foreskin (lichen sclerosus), pain or splitting of the foreskin with intercourse, or persistent hygiene difficulties.
Will circumcision affect sexual sensation?
Most men report no significant change in sexual sensation or function after circumcision. Some men notice the glans feels less sensitive in the first few months as it adapts to direct contact with clothing, but this usually settles. Many men with phimosis or recurrent foreskin problems report improved comfort during intercourse afterwards.
Is adult circumcision covered by Medicare?
Adult circumcision performed for a medical indication (such as phimosis, recurrent balanitis or lichen sclerosus) by a urologist attracts a Medicare rebate and is typically covered by private health insurance when performed in hospital. Purely cosmetic or non-medical circumcision is not covered by Medicare. Dr Dias's rooms can provide a written quote with the relevant item numbers prior to surgery.
Next Steps
If you are considering circumcision — whether for phimosis, recurrent infections, lichen sclerosus or another reason — book a consultation with Dr Dias to discuss whether local anaesthetic in the rooms or general anaesthetic in hospital is right for you. A GP referral is required to access Medicare rebates.