Introduction
Many families choose circumcision for their sons later in childhood. This may be for religious, cultural, or medical reasons such as phimosis or recurrent infections.
At Circumcision Centre Ireland (CCI), we perform circumcision for children of all ages. If you are considering circumcision for an older child, here are the key things you should know.
Table of Contents
Is circumcision safe for older children?
Circumcision is safe at any age when performed by an experienced surgeon in a sterile clinic environment. At CCI, we use the traditional cut method for children over 12 months of age. This avoids the risks that can come with the Plastibell ring in older, more mobile children, where trauma to the ring may cause bleeding and lead to emergency visits. With the cut method, once the procedure is completed, there is no device left behind, which means fewer risks afterwards.
Will my child tolerate the procedure?
Parents are often concerned about whether their child will be able to cope. For most children over the age of five, tolerance is generally very good. The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic (LA), which completely numbs the area. The most uncomfortable moment is the small injection of anaesthetic at the start, but once this has taken effect the procedure itself is pain-free.
When circumcision may not be suitable in clinic
While most children manage well with local anaesthetic, there are situations where a hospital referral is safer. Children with significant learning difficulties or behavioural conditions may struggle to cooperate with the procedure while awake. In addition, where circumcision is required for medical reasons such as phimosis with scarring, the foreskin and glans may be especially sensitive. Even with anaesthetic, this can make the procedure uncomfortable. In such cases, we recommend circumcision under sedation or general anaesthetic in a hospital setting.
Recovery and time off school
The main practical consideration for older children is recovery time. Most boys are comfortable within a few days and can return to school quite quickly, provided they avoid physical activity. Sports, PE, cycling, and rough play should be avoided for two weeks to allow full healing. Many families choose to schedule circumcision during school holidays to make recovery easier.
Sensitivity after circumcision
It is normal for the glans (the head of the penis) to feel sensitive after circumcision, especially in children who have had a tight foreskin before. This sensitivity usually settles with time as the skin adjusts. Wearing snug cotton underwear can help reduce friction and make the healing phase more comfortable.
Why parents choose circumcision later in childhood
Parents may choose circumcision later in a child’s life for many reasons. Some families delay for religious or cultural timing, while others encounter medical issues such as infections or phimosis that require treatment. In all cases, circumcision performed by an IMC-registered doctor in a safe clinical environment offers reassurance and peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does recovery take?
Healing usually takes 10–14 days but can be upto 4-6 weeks in older children. Children should avoid sports and physical activity for two weeks, but many return to school within a few days.
Is the procedure painful for older children?
The only painful moment is the local anaesthetic injection. Once the area is numb, the procedure itself is not painful. Mild discomfort afterwards is normal and can be managed with paracetamol.
What if my child cannot cooperate?
If a child cannot tolerate the procedure under local anaesthetic, or if the case involves significant scarring or sensitivity, we recommend hospital referral for sedation or general anaesthetic.
