Phimosis Treatment in Birmingham
Phimosis is a condition in which the foreskin of the penis is too tight to be pulled back fully over the head of the penis (glans). It is common in childhood but usually resolves naturally by puberty. When it persists into adulthood or develops later in life, it can cause discomfort, hygiene problems, painful erections and difficulties with sexual intercourse. Mr Syed Ali Shahzad, Consultant Urological and Robotic Surgeon, treats phimosis at private hospitals across Birmingham.
Types of Phimosis
- Physiological phimosis: Normal in young boys; the foreskin is naturally non-retractable and typically loosens with age.
- Pathological phimosis: In adults, often caused by scarring from balanitis, skin conditions (particularly lichen sclerosus / BXO – balanitis xerotica obliterans) or trauma.
Symptoms
- Inability to retract the foreskin
- Pain during erection or intercourse
- Recurrent infections under the foreskin
- Urinary stream that balloons the foreskin (in severe cases)
- Discomfort during urination
Treatment Options
- Topical steroid cream: A 6 to 8 week course of betamethasone cream applied twice daily is effective in around 70 to 80% of patients with mild to moderate phimosis and no significant scarring.
- Frenuloplasty: Surgical release of the frenulum (the tight band under the foreskin) whilst preserving the foreskin.
- Preputioplasty: Surgical widening of the foreskin opening to allow retraction.
- Circumcision: Complete removal of the foreskin. The definitive treatment for pathological phimosis, particularly when caused by lichen sclerosus.
Book a Phimosis Consultation
No GP referral is required. Mr Shahzad is recognised by BUPA, AXA, AVIVA, Vitality, Cigna and WPA. Book an appointment or contact us.