Can the problems associated with short frenulum get better on their own?
Unfortunately, a short frenulum generally does not get better on its own.
Some physicians suggest stretching exercises, but the frenulum is a rather tough tissue that is not easily stretched. A penile frenulectomy is usually necessary to release the tight band of tissue, which creates painful downward traction on the glans.
What is the best treatment for a short frenulum?
A frenulectomy is a specialized technique that treats this condition by removing the tight restriction, allowing increased penile skin range of motion. It is done under local anesthesia in our Ireland clinic and takes only about 30 minutes to perform.
The goal of the procedure is functional so that the tight frenulum is released, allowing improved sexual pleasure without fear of pain or bleeding.
Is a penile frenulectomy or frenuloplasty painful?
We perform procedures under long-acting local anaesthesia and those men who have undergone this procedure usually describe it as virtually painless.
What are the risks of the frenectomy procedure?
- Swelling and bruising at the site of the procedure 1/100.
- Infection requiring antibiotics 1/500.
- Bleeding (usually mild) 1/100.
- Scarring at the site of the operation 1/100.
- Meatal stenosis due to injury to the frenular artery requiring a meatotomy (rare) 1/500.
- Suboptimal cosmetic or functional effect requiring a second procedure 1/100.
- Chronic pain at the site of the surgery is 1/500.
- Vasovagal reaction causing light-headedness after the procedure 1/200.
How long does it take to recover?
Recovery from penile frenulectomy is fairly fast and painless. Most men do not require additional pain medications after the procedure and can return to office work the next day. You will need a few more days off if your job requires heavy or physical activity.
After penile frenulectomy, when can I have sex again?
We generally recommend no sex for at least 5-6 weeks to allow the surgical site to heal optimally and sutures, if required at the time of the procedure, to dissolve.
How will this affect my sex life?
After a frenulectomy, because the tight band is released, sex becomes more pleasurable due to less pain and worry from tearing and bleeding.
How will penile frenulectomy affect my foreskin?
Frenulectomy does not affect your foreskin, and you will remain uncircumcised if you are not circumcised. Because the procedure only involves releasing the tight band of tissue underneath the penis where it attaches to your foreskin, your foreskin will be preserved.
