The Frenulum

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The Frenulum

The frenulum is a small band of tissue located on the underside of the penis. It connects the glans, or head, of the penis to the foreskin. In some men, a shorter frenulum can affect sexual function and cause pain. And in many cases, patients choose to undergo circumcision or frenuloplasty to relieve discomfort. 

At California Adult Circumcision in San Diego, Dr. Bidair is a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon who specializes in male genital surgery. These procedures safely and effectively lengthen the frenulum, allowing for improved sexual function and comfort. Dr. Bidair understands the sensitivity and privacy concerns associated with this issue, which is why he provides personalized consultations to ensure his patients feel comfortable and well-informed before proceeding with any treatment options.

Don’t wait if you are in discomfort. Call (619) 486-5005 or complete an online form to schedule a consultation at California Adult Circumcision.

About the Frenulum

A frenulum is a piece of tissue that connects two structures together, providing stability and support. In the case of the frenulum of prepuce, it connects the foreskin to the glans (head) of the penis and helps to provide stability during an erection. It varies in size and shape from person to person and contains a concentration of nerve endings, which can make it an erogenous zone for some men.

What is Frenulum Breve?

In some cases, the frenulum may be too tight or short, which can cause pain during intercourse or masturbation. This is a condition known as frenulum breve. Studies have also revealed that a short frenulum may contribute to lifelong problems with premature ejaculation. (1) If the frenulum is causing discomfort, it can be surgically corrected through a procedure called frenuloplasty. This is a simple outpatient procedure that involves making a small incision in the frenulum to release tension and allow for greater flexibility.

There are several causes of frenulum breve, including trauma, congenital anomaly, or phimosis (a condition where the foreskin cannot retract over the glans). In some cases, it may also lead to inflammation, swelling, and scarring. It can affect both adult males and children, but it is more commonly seen in adolescents.

Symptoms of Frenulum Breve

  • Pain during sexual intercourse
  • Sensitivity or discomfort during erection
  • Inflammation and swelling of the frenulum
  • Erectile dysfunction
  • Balanitis (infection of the glans)
  • Hygiene problems due to difficulty retracting the foreskin
  • Scar tissue or erosion of the frenulum

Frenulum Tears

A torn frenulum is a relatively common injury that can occur during sexual activity or other forms of physical trauma. At California Adult Circumcision, Dr. Bidair is an expert in treating torn frenulums and other penile injuries. He offers a range of treatment options, including surgical repair, to help patients recover from this painful condition.

There are other related reasons for genital pain in intact men, including phimosis and paraphimosis –  conditions that make it difficult to retract the foreskin. It is therefore essential that you seek a diagnosis from a qualified specialist. Contact California Adult Circumcision today at (619) 486-5005 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bidair and take the first step towards a happier, healthier sex life.

About Frenuloplasty

Frenuloplasty involves lengthening or loosening the frenulum to improve comfort and function.  The procedure involves local or general anesthesia, depending on the severity of the condition During the procedure, Dr. Bidair will make an incision in the affected area to access and repair the damaged frenulum. Sutures or stitches may be used to secure the frenulum in place and promote wound healing.

Who is Frenuloplasty For?

  • Men who experience pain or tearing during sexual intercourse
  • Men who have a short or tight frenulum
  • Men who have experienced trauma to the frenulum
  • Men who have difficulty retracting the foreskin

When Should I See a Specialist?

Seeing a specialist is the first step toward comfort, regardless of the condition you are experiencing. Men who are experiencing pain during intercourse, difficulty retracting the foreskin, or other issues related to the frenulum may be candidates for frenuloplasty or circumcision surgery. 

Circumcision Choices

Circumcision involves the removal of the foreskin covering the glans and, in most cases, the division of the frenulum. (2) There are several circumcision options you can discuss with Dr. Bidair at a personal consultation.

During a consultation with Dr. Bidair, he can evaluate your concerns and determine which procedure is right for you.

Personal Consultation

Experienced, board-certified urologist Dr. Bidair understands that each patient is unique and may have different concerns or questions regarding their urogenital health. He will listen to your needs and provide personalized recommendations based on your individual situation. Whether you are considering circumcision or simply want more information about your anatomy, Dr. Bidair can help.

In addition to in-person consultations, we also offer phone consultations for those who are unable to visit our San Diego office. We believe that every patient deserves access to quality care and information, regardless of their location. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Bidair, please call (619) 486-5005 today.

Planning Your Surgery

  • Avoid blood thinners, supplements, and medications that may interfere with the healing process as instructed
  • Stop smoking for several weeks before and after surgery to promote healing.
  • Make sure you eat something before coming to the procedure. The procedure is done under local anesthesia.
  • Wear comfortable clothing.

Circumcision Procedure

During a circumcision procedure, the frenulum may be removed or shortened depending on the patient’s preference and anatomy. Recovery is typically quick, with most patients experiencing minimal discomfort and returning to normal activities within a few days. Dr. Bidair will provide detailed aftercare instructions, including how to manage any discomfort and keep the area clean and dry.

Once fully healed, patients may notice a smoother appearance of the penis without the frenulum and foreskin. However, it’s important to note that removing or shortening the frenulum should not affect sexual function or pleasure. In fact, some patients report increased sensitivity and pleasure during sexual activity after frenulum removal.

At California Adult Circumcision, we prioritize patient education and comfort throughout the entire circumcision process. If you have any questions or concerns about the frenulum or circumcision in general, please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bidair.

Cost of Adult Circumcision in San Diego

The cost of your surgery will vary according to the specific nature of your treatment plan. During your consultation, Dr. Bidair, will evaluate your condition and provide you with a personalized treatment plan and cost estimate. Our team is committed to providing affordable care without sacrificing quality or results. We also offer financing options to help make your desired treatment plan more accessible. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Bidair, please call (619) 486-5005 or visit our website to learn more about our services and pricing information.

To find out more about adult circumcision read Dr. Bidair’s blog.

FAQ

What happens if the frenulum is too short or tight?

If the frenulum is too short or tight, it can cause pain or discomfort during sexual activity. This condition is known as frenulum breve and can affect a man’s ability to achieve and maintain an erection. In some cases, it may even cause tearing or bleeding during intercourse.

Can frenulum breve be treated?

Yes, frenulum breve can be treated through a minor surgical procedure called a frenuloplasty. During this procedure, the surgeon will make a small incision in the frenulum, lengthening it and allowing for greater flexibility during sexual activity. This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and has a relatively short recovery time.

Is circumcision necessary if I have frenulum breve?

Circumcision may be recommended for frenulum breve, however, it may not always be necessary. While circumcision can help to alleviate some of the symptoms associated with frenulum breve, it is not the only treatment option available. Frenuloplasty is a less invasive treatment option that allows men to maintain their foreskin while still addressing the issue.

Can the frenulum be removed during circumcision?

Yes, during circumcision, the frenulum is often removed along with the foreskin. However, this is not always necessary, and some men may choose to leave the frenulum intact. Ultimately, the decision to remove the frenulum during circumcision is up to the individual and should be discussed with their surgeon beforehand.

Does removal of the frenulum affect sexual function?

No, removal of the frenulum does not typically affect sexual function. In fact, some men report an increase in sexual pleasure following frenulum removal. However, it is important to discuss any concerns about sexual function with your surgeon prior to the procedure.

References

  1. 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 
  2. 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