A frenuloplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at making the frenulum less tight and longer to solve the issues this structure can cause for patients. The frenulum, which is the small area of tissue attached to the foreskin and penile glans, can sometimes cause discomfort, tearing, and even bleeding if it is too constricting. By lengthening or loosening this tissue, urologists can resolve the painful issues that may arise during sexual activity or daily life. This procedure can also treat frenulum breve, which is a condition that can affect erection maintainability. This surgery has high satisfaction rates, as it can help alleviate these unpleasant side effects in an effective and long-lasting way. (1)
At California Adult Circumcision, Dr. Mo Bidair is a board-certified urologist who is experienced in addressing intricate functional issues such as these. Dr. Bidair approaches each frenuloplasty with the unique needs of every patient in mind. To schedule a personal consultation at California Adult Circumcision, please call our office at (619) 486-5005. Our San Diego office is conveniently located off Fletcher Parkway in La Mesa. Another way to get in touch with us is through our contact form.
If you are interested in learning more about the other procedures we offer at California Adult Circumcision, you can take a look at our blog. We cover a wide selection of topics, ranging from adult circumcision to girth-enhancing injections. Patient education is extremely important, and we want to share all the helpful information we can.
Contents
About the Frenulum
The frenulum is the band of tissue that connects the penile structures of the glans (head) and the foreskin together. The purpose of the frenulum is mainly to provide support and stabilization between these two structures. However, it can have important sensory functions as well; the frenulum contains a multitude of nerves that may contribute to stimulation, which is why it is so important that a skilled urologist addresses the structure carefully and spares the surrounding tissues during a frenuloplasty. (2) The frenulum also facilitates erection capabilities as it is integral to maintaining the structure during erections. One study even examines the possibility that a short frenulum can lead to premature ejaculation. (3) It is important to keep in mind that a frenuloplasty will not inhibit a patient’s sexual activity–in fact, the resolution of painful issues can make sexual situations more enjoyable. In any case, every frenulum is different and can take on different attributes for each person.
The frenulum may be too tight for genetic reasons, or because of conditions or injuries that occur later on in life. Regardless of the cause of a tight frenulum, there are a few different avenues of treatment the patient can move forward with; patients can address frenulum-related issues with either a circumcision or with a frenuloplasty.
Some types of circumcisions can divide or remove the frenulum, while others may spare it. (2) If a patient has had a prior circumcision, but has not had their frenulum removed, the frenulum can still cause issues in the future. However, if the patient has not undergone a complete circumcision, they may want to preserve the foreskin and only target the problematic frenulum tissue. While a circumcision can remove the frenulum or address the issues associated with it, this procedure may be too extensive for some patients. A frenuloplasty is a more direct procedure that can address the frenulum on its own. Because it is a more precise procedure, it is less invasive and can spare the foreskin from removal. (1)
Benefits
A frenuloplasty can have many life-improving benefits for patients who receive one, such as:
- Improved comfort: By addressing the tightness of the frenulum, a frenuloplasty can relieve the pain that can occur during sexual activity and erections.
- Improved functionality: A frenuloplasty can improve the ability to achieve and maintain erections, as the skin becomes more flexible.
- Less invasive procedure: Unlike a circumcision, a frenuloplasty only addresses the frenulum, thus sparing the foreskin that some patients prefer to maintain.
- Quicker procedure: The frenuloplasty procedure is generally brief, usually taking around 30 minutes or less.
Candidates
If you experience pain, tearing, or discomfort during sexual intercourse due to a short or tight frenulum, you may be eligible for a frenuloplasty that can help resolve these issues. You may also seek out this procedure if you have experienced a past physical trauma that has affected the frenulum and your quality of life. Some candidates have difficulty retracting the foreskin as well–if you experience any of these issues, please contact our San Diego office so we can help you determine if a frenuloplasty is right for you. We may not recommend frenuloplasties to patients who have active infections or poor medical health.
Personal Consultation
Scheduling a personal consultation is the first step you can take in the direction of a more comfortable life. No matter what symptoms you report, Dr. Bidair will take a personalized approach to your treatment to deliver the most effective results. Whether you are experiencing pain during intercourse, having difficulty effectively retracting the foreskin, or are suffering from any other issues relating to the frenulum, Dr. Bidair will be able to hear your concerns and walk you through a treatment plan after this initial consultation. Dr. Bidair will also need to learn more about your medical history in order to create an informed procedure plan, so come to your personal consultation ready to share. To schedule this personal consultation with Dr. Bidair, please call (619) 486-5005 today. Alternatively, you may request a personal consultation by filling out our straightforward contact form.
Preparation
Because a frenuloplasty is only a minimally invasive procedure, the list of things you need to do to prepare is not extensive. Regardless, Dr. Bidair will let you know everything you need to do well before your procedure date. Before a frenuloplasty, we generally advise our patients to take the following steps:
- Avoid any medications or supplements that lead to blood thinning. This could affect the body’s ability to heal.
- If applicable, stop smoking a few weeks before surgery to optimize your procedure results.
- Share your medical history with Dr. Bidair.
- Wear comfortable clothing to your appointment.
- Prepare to arrive on time, with realistic expectations.
Procedure
Dr. Bidair usually performs frenuloplasty under local anesthesia so that the procedure is more comfortable. During this procedure, Dr. Bidair will make a tiny incision in the frenulum to make it longer. (1) This will alleviate many of the problems that can be caused by a tight or short frenulum. The skin in this area will become more flexible and capable of movement, reducing the discomfort that may have been occurring during sexual activity. After Dr. Bidair makes the necessary incisions, he will use dissolvable stitches for the new length of the frenulum.
Recovery
Recovery from a frenuloplasty procedure is simple. Before your surgery, Dr. Bidair will prepare you for your recovery by supplying informative aftercare instructions. Patients may experience some discomfort within the first few days after the procedure, but they will most likely be able to return to regular activities after this period. Full recovery may take around 4 weeks.
At California Adult Circumcision, we know how important it is that you feel comfortable and informed throughout the entire frenuloplasty process–including the recovery. If you have any questions or concerns during your recovery, please don’t hesitate to give us a call so we can provide you with the necessary information. Dr. Bidair may ask that you return to the office for follow-up appointments during your recovery so that he can check on the healing progress.
Results
Patients who receive a frenuloplasty will enjoy the results of reduced discomfort during sexual activity, as well as the resolution of other issues caused by a tight frenulum. After the incisions have fully healed, erections may be more easily achieved and maintained if the frenulum had been causing restrictions. In one study involving a survey sent back by 87 men, 97% said they would recommend a procedure like this to a friend. (1)
Cost of Frenuloplasty in San Diego
The frenuloplasty procedure is priced according to the intricacies of each procedure, which can vary across different patients. It is helpful to attend a personal consultation during which Dr. Bidair can evaluate your needs and come to a conclusion about the cost of your frenuloplasty. To schedule this informative consultation please call (619) 486-5005 or fill out our contact form.
FAQ
What does a frenuloplasty accomplish?
A frenuloplasty can relieve discomfort caused by a tight or short frenulum. This can improve sexual functioning and improve the ability to achieve and maintain an erection, as the frenulum will no longer be inhibiting movement and flexibility.
How long is the frenuloplasty procedure?
Frenuloplasty surgery is very quick. After around 30 minutes, the entire procedure will be complete. However, this length of time will depend on each individual’s situation–some patients may require a longer procedure.
Is a frenuloplasty permanent?
Yes, a frenuloplasty is permanent. The frenulum cannot revert back to its original condition after Dr. Bidair carries out this surgery. This means you will most likely not have to come back to address the same issue again. Of course everyone heals differently but the risk of scarring is very low.
Should I get a frenuloplasty?
If you are experiencing any frenulum-related issues in your daily life and sexual activity, you may want to consider a frenuloplasty. At a personal consultation at our office, Dr. Bidair will help you determine whether you are eligible to receive a frenuloplasty.
References
- Dockray J, Finlayson A, Muir GH. Penile frenuloplasty: a simple and effective treatment for frenular pain or scarring. BJU International. 2011;109(10):1546-1550. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1464-410x.2011.10678.x
- Shenoy SP. Frenulum Sparing Circumcision: Step-By-Step Approach of a Novel Technique. Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research. Published online 2015. doi:https://doi.org/10.7860/jcdr/2015/14972.6860
- Gallo L, Perdonà S, Gallo A. ORIGINAL RESEARCH—EJACULATORY DISORDERS: The Role of Short Frenulum and the Effects of Frenulectomy on Premature Ejaculation. The Journal of Sexual Medicine. 2010;7(3):1269-1276. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1743-6109.2009.01661.x