For both newborns and older children, circumcision is considered a very safe procedure.

Healing time for newborns usually takes about 1 week. Apply petroleum jelly after diaper changes to protect the healing incision. Some initial swelling and yellow crust formation around the incision is normal.

Healing time for older children and adolescents may take up to 3 weeks. In most instances, the child will be discharged from the hospital on the day of the surgery. Suggestions for home care for older children include:

• Avoid vigorous exercise during the healing time.
• If the wound bleeds during the first 24 hours after surgery, apply pressure with a clean cloth for 10 minutes.
• Use ice packs (20 minutes on, 20 minutes off) for the first 24 hours after surgery to reduce swelling and pain (only for older children and not newborn infants). Bathing and showering are usually permitted. The incision may be gently washed with mild, unscented soap.
• Change the dressing at least once a day and apply an antibiotic ointment. If the dressing gets wet, change it promptly.
• Use prescribed pain medicine as directed. Pain medication should not be needed longer than 4 to 7 days (use only acetaminophen for infants, as needed).

Call your pediatrician or surgeon if:

• Fresh bleeding occurs
• The entire penis looks red and swollen
• Pus drains from around the incision
• Pain becomes severe or lasts for more than expected