Traditional vs. Laser vs. Stapler: Which Circumcision Method is Right for You? Pros and Cons

This article was reviewed by Dr Kenneth Lee.

Phimosis or an overly long foreskin is a common issue for many men. It can affect personal hygiene, lead to infections, and even impact sexual health in the future. As a result, circumcision has become a popular choice. However, with advances in medical technology, the surgical options have diversified, from traditional methods to modern “stapler guns.”

This article is your guide to the three main circumcision methods, helping you make the best choice for your needs.

1. Traditional Circumcision: The Classic and Adaptable Method

This is the oldest and most widely used surgical method. A doctor uses a scalpel to remove the excess foreskin and then stitches the skin together by hand.

Pros:

• Broad applicability: A doctor can flexibly adjust the procedure to suit a patient’s individual circumstances, making it suitable for almost all cases.
• Lower cost: The surgical instruments are inexpensive, keeping the overall cost down.

Cons:

• Longer procedure time: The manual stitching process is time-consuming.
• More bleeding: There is a relatively higher amount of bleeding during the operation.
• Variable cosmetic results: This method is highly dependent on the surgeon’s skill, and the stitches may leave more noticeable scars.
• Longer recovery period: Post-operative swelling and pain can be more significant, leading to a longer recovery.

2. Laser Circumcision: Precise and Efficient

This method uses a high-energy laser beam instead of a traditional scalpel.

Pros:

• Minimal bleeding: The laser cauterises blood vessels as it cuts, significantly reducing blood loss.
• Faster procedure: Cutting and stopping bleeding happen simultaneously, making the operation more efficient.
• Reduced swelling: Less bleeding leads to less post-operative swelling.

Cons:

• Risk of thermal damage: The high heat of the laser may cause some thermal damage to surrounding tissue.
• Higher cost: The expensive laser equipment means the procedure is usually more costly than a traditional one.
• High skill requirement: This method demands specialised training and a heavy reliance on the equipment.

3. Circumcision Stapler: Fast and Aesthetically Pleasing

This is one of the most modern surgical methods, often nicknamed the “stapler gun” for its appearance.

Pros:

• Extremely fast: The entire procedure takes just a few minutes, as it cuts and staples simultaneously.
• Standardised incision: The device creates a neat, standardised cut, leading to a very clean and aesthetically pleasing result.
• Less pain: The procedure is quick, with minimal bleeding and significantly reduced post-operative pain.
• Faster recovery: The staples fall out on their own, meaning no need for a follow-up visit to have stitches removed, making recovery more convenient.

Cons:

• Highest cost: The single-use device is expensive, making this the costliest of the three methods.
• Limited applicability: Not suitable for all cases, such as severe phimosis or adhesions.
• Foreign body sensation: There may be a slight sensation of a foreign object until the staples fall off.

Conclusion: How to Choose the Right Method for You?

There is no single “best” method; the key is to choose the one that’s most suitable for your individual circumstances.

Your final decision should be based on your personal needs and a professional medical assessment. Before making a choice, always consult with an experienced urologist to ensure the safety and best outcome of your procedure.

Disclaimer: 

The information provided in the articles is intended solely for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a licensed healthcare professional if you are feeling unwell or have any medical concerns.

This article was reviewed by Dr Kenneth Lee.

Dr Kenneth Lee is renowned for his unique insights into men’s health and regenerative medicine. He specialises in anti-ageing, aesthetics, and regenerative medicine and is widely known as “The Collagen Doc®” for his in-depth research into collagen. Dr Lee is committed to combining cutting-edge international medical technologies with personalised treatment plans to provide an exceptional patient experience.