What is frenulum

Frenulum is an elastic band of tissue under the glans that connects to the foreskin to the vernal mucosa and helps contract the foreskin over the glans.

What is Short Frenulum

If the frenulum is too short on the erect penis, it restricts movement of the foreskin over the head of the penis. During intercourse, the foreskin is tugged back and the tethering effect of this “bridle” causes pain. As a result, the tight frenulum will rip and bleed. If the wound is not handled properly, an infection may happen and a scar on the frenulum may occur.

Consequence

A short frenulum can affect the development of foreskin, the glans and the penis. During intercourse, the foreskin is not being able to retract freely due to the short frenulum. Pain will result as the foreskin is pulled backwards and strain is put on the frenulum. Consequently, many men will be frightened in having sexual intercourse. This affects men’s sexual life and self-confidence.

Having circumcision wrongly on men who suffer from frenulum does not provide any improvement of the problem. This will only make the frenulum even shorter.

Treatment

The frenuloplasty can be performed by making a small horizontal cut on the frenulum and suture the frenulum vertically, thus lengthening the frenulum. The surgery can be done in the clinic. It takes around 15-20 minutes. Local anesthesia is needed. The wound will be covered with surgical-grade skin adhesive. Since it is antiseptic and waterproof, patients can take showers as usual 24 hours after surgery. The topical skin adhesive will go away gradually after about 1 week.

Patients are recommended to resume swimming and sexual activities (include masturbation) at least 2 weeks and 1 month respectively.