If you’ve found this blog, it’s likely because your child recently underwent or is about to undergo a circumcision. Congratulations on your new addition! At OKC Kids Urology, we perform the Plastibell circumcision, which involves placing a small plastic ring under the foreskin and securing it with a string before removing the excess skin.

This method is popular due to its ease of use, reduced risk of bleeding and complications, as well as straightforward aftercare for parents. Your child will be fully circumcised by the time they leave the office or hospital, but it usually takes about 7 to 14 days for the Plastibell and string to fall off.

You may be wondering how to care for your child after having a circumcision.

Caring for your child after having a circumcision is extremely easy

Feed them normally

You may continue to feed your child normally before and after the procedure. Our office recommends taking a dose or two of Tylenol (Acetaminophen) after the procedure, as we do make a skin cut. Once the numbing wears off, it will feel like a paper cut burns the first few times it gets wet (with urine or water). This may cause your baby to be “fussy” over the next 24 hours, and Tylenol can help alleviate this discomfort.

NOTE: Do NOT give your child Advil (Ibuprofen) until they are over 6 months of age!

Bathe them normally

Our office recommends giving your child a bath every day until the bell falls off, even on the day of the procedure! Fully submerge your child in the bathtub, ensuring the plastibell is wet and clean with soap and water.
Parents who bathe their children every day report that the bell falls off faster and easier!

But what if my child still has their umbilical cord?
Continue to give your child a daily bath, but be sure to submerge only the lower pelvis, below the location of the umbilical cord. You can use a washcloth or a cup to gently pour water over the penis for cleaning. If a newborn’s umbilical cord gets wet, it’s usually not a cause for concern; however, it’s essential to ensure it’s dried thoroughly afterward. Keeping the cord area clean and dry will help it heal and fall off naturally. If the cord becomes wet during a sponge bath, gently pat it dry with a clean towel.

Treat them normally

The only thing that changes is when you do your diaper changes! You can continue to use wipes on the buttocks for poops, but on the front side, use a peribottle/squirt bottle, a cup of water, or a sprayer in the sink to thoroughly rinse the penis with each diaper change, dry the penis, and then apply antibiotic ointment on the penis. DO THIS WITH EACH DIAPER CHANGE!

Once the bell falls off, everything returns to normal!

Follow-Up Appointment

Our office likes to have your child come back for a follow-up one month after your child’s circumcision procedure. This way, we can ensure everything is healing properly!

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact our office at 405-286-0755.