Many parents call our office wondering if their child’s circumcision looks normal after receiving the Plastibell procedure!

Think of when you get a cut on your arm, it will go through “stages” of healing before it is fully healed! The end of the penis will likely get red, then develop a yellow discharge, and finally scab over, “like a skinned knee.” This is the normal healing process and will progress over the 7-14 days that the Plastibell Ring remains in place.

A more detailed breakdown of this process

Days 1-2

Swelling and redness at the site, the infant may have some discomfort, and a small amount of drainage may be present.

Days 3-4

Swelling and redness start to decrease, and drainage decreases. The incision line may begin to scab over.

Days 5-7

The scab may start to thicken and darken, and the plastibell ring begins to loosen.

Days 8-14

The plastibell ring usually falls off on its own. Once the bell is off, you may notice a small amount of white discharge around the penis, this is called smegma and is a naturally occurring whitish, cheesy substance found under the foreskin of uncircumcised penises. Simply wipe this away from the penis. When wiping always wipe TOWARDS the pubic bone to prevent the skin from sticking to the head of the penis, known as adhesions. You should always be able to visualize the

As a parent, should I be worried and call the office?

Signs of infection

White/green drainage, and redness extending from the shaft of the penis onto the belly wall!

Bleeding that Does Not Stop

Small dabs of blood in the diaper are normal. GUSHING BLOOD THAT DOES NOT STOP WITH APPLIED PRESSURE IS NOT! Go to the ER and call Dr. Kropp’s line, which was provided to you in the office.

Proximal Migration

A rare complication, known as proximal migration of the plastibell circumcision, may occur. This is when the plastibell migrates, or moves, from its original spot DOWN the shaft of the penis, causing penile incaration! This will require Dr. Kropp to remove the plastibell and then call our office or Dr. Kropp’s line to proceed. The bell will most likely need to be removed in the office or the emergency room by Dr. Kropp or another provider. Do not panic; once the bell is removed, these penises often heal completely normally. If not, Dr. Kropp will address any complications.

What if my plastibell is dangling?

This is considered normal. We recommend bathing your child to see if the area attaching the dangling bell can be softened and fall off naturally! 

Remember, the bell will undergo several stages of healing throughout 7 to 14 days, until it eventually falls off. It is important to bathe your child daily and clean the area with each diaper change to ensure the bell stays clean and falls off easily! Do not hesitate to call our office if you have any questions or concerns at 405-286-0755.