Can I Get Circumcised at 16? Here’s What You Need to Know

Published on, 20 April, 2025. Answered by Dr. Abdelmajeed Saad and Verified by Dr.Galen Team
Patient Question

Hello Doctor,

 

I'm 16 years old and I haven't been circumcised yet, but I'm interested in getting it done. I want to know if it's possible for someone my age to have a circumcision. Can you explain how the procedure is done and what I should expect?

 

Hello,

Thank you for reaching out to Dr. Galen. Please find the below response to your query.

 

Yes, you can have a circumcision at the age of 16. While it’s often done in infancy, circumcision can be safely performed in teenagers and adults for personal, cultural, religious, or medical reasons.

Circumcision is a surgery to remove the foreskin—the skin covering the head of the penis. Here’s how it works:

1. Consultation: You’ll first meet with a urologist or surgeon who will discuss your health, your reasons for the procedure, and explain the risks and benefits.

 

2. The Procedure: It's usually done under general anesthesia, so you’ll be asleep during the surgery. The surgeon removes the foreskin and uses dissolvable stitches. The surgery typically takes about an hour.

 

3. Recovery: Healing takes about 2–3 weeks. Mild pain, swelling, or discomfort is normal, and pain medication may be used if needed. You’ll need to avoid heavy activities and sexual contact until fully healed.

 

Thanks

 


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