What is a redundant prepuce?
The skin on the head of a penis is called the foreskin. Another name for foreskin is prepuce. The foreskin, or prepuce, is removed during circumcision. A redundant prepuce means that the skin is too long, completely covering the penis when it is not erect.
What role does circumcision play?
A majority of male babies in the United States and the Middle East are circumcised (rates are much lower in Latin America, Europe, and Asia). Most of these procedures are done correctly. However, sometimes not enough of the foreskin is removed. When this happens, the child’s penis will look unusual since it is not fully circumcised or uncircumcised. He or his parents (if he is young) may choose to have a second circumcision either to improve the appearance of the penis or to avoid some of the problems that can occur in uncircumcised males. These problems include a buildup of smegma (the substance that helps lubricate the penis), inflammation, or infections.
What does a second circumcision involve?
Having a second circumcision is often called “circumcision revision.” It is uncommon but sometimes necessary.
Studies show that if a child has too much foreskin after a first circumcision, it is best not to wait too long to correct it. The problem typically will only get worse if not treated. Boys do not “grow into” a too-large foreskin.