Question: Hello Doctor,

I am based in the UK. I was circumcised as a child and although the procedure was successful in overcoming my phimosis it left me with an unsightly skin bridge from my shaft to the glans for many years. As an adult this has recently broken, leaving the area looking more 'normal' around the circumcised area. However, I still have what I believe to be an unremoved stitch (or possibly a fat nodule?) just underneath the skin of my penis, where the doctor was unable to extract it properly some weeks after the operation. It's hard when pressed on and from the surface just looks like a small bump on the underside of my penis. Causes me a little discomfort, especially when I get erections. Mainly I am worried that it will interfere with enjoyment of sex at some point (I am not currently sexually active). I wanted to know how likely it is I could get it removed and what would be involved in the procedure? There seems to be very little information out there, so I feel a bit stranded with the problem. I really would like it sorted out after so long, but am (like most guys) quite nervous about having this part of my body treated in any way.

Thanks in advance.

Hello Dr. XXXXXXX

Thanks for your reply. I think my preference would be to have it removed sooner rather than later, so that it does not become an issue when I am in a relationship. I know you have not seen the area but can you detail what would be involved please? I am imagining a local numbing agent/anesthetic would be used? How much of an incision would be involved? Literally this thing is like a tiny pebble a few millimeters under the skin. I saw my doctor today who agreed that it was a minor procedure and has referred me to a urologist to have an ultrasound done to make sure it is indeed a retained suture.

Regards,

XXXXXX