Choosing a good Doctor to do the circumcision can be a difficult task, especially if it is your first son and / or you recently moved to a new area. Asking for recommendations from family and friends is a good way to start, but ultimately you will have to decide which Doctor and clinic is best suited to your situation.
Most Doctors / GPs in the UK are very well trained to provide medical care for routine ailments such as a cold, the flu, and regular checkups, but performing a circumcision is not part of their regular training. Hence, you must ensure that you choose a Doctor who has been fully trained to perform circumcisions.
Below, some of the most important questions that you have to ask before choosing the doctor:
- How can I be sure that a GP has the necessary training and experience to do a circumcision? Ask the GP to provide you with the detail of his/her experience and even to introduce you to a couple of parents whose son had been circumcised by him/her.
- Is it better to go to the experienced GP who has been working in the neighbourhood for years? No, many experienced GP’s do not have any training relevant to a circumcision.
- What about Doctors who do circumcisions at home? It is not advisable. Your son may be at a higher risk of infection and bleeding.
- What about a Surgeon? Is it advisable to consult a Surgeon rather than a GP? Certainly, especially if it is a Paediatric Surgeon, a surgeon who specialises in the treatment of children.
- What is the difference between a circumcision done by a GP or one performed by a Surgeon? A Paediatric Surgeon is obviously the expert in doing circumcisions. Let's put it this way: a groom may chose to buy a ready-to-wear suit from a local shop or to opt for a made-to-measure suit uniquely done for him. A Surgeon will do a made-to-measure circumcision unique to your son's penis form and shape. Hence, the cosmetic result will be much better.
There may be some other concerns when choosing a Doctor. The relevance of these concerns should reflect your own needs and priorities. The following questions can help you to define further what is most important for you:
1. Where is the practice located? Will it be easy for you to get there? Is it accessible by public transportation? Is there ample parking?
2. Which clinic / hospital does the doctor use? Are you comfortable with the possibility of being treated at one of these institutions should the need arises?
3. How long must you wait for an appointment?
4. Have the staff a reputation for being friendly and courteous?
5. If you call with a question about your care, does a doctor or nurse return your call promptly?
6. Who covers for the physician when he/she is away? Whom should you call if you have a problem after-hours? If the doctor works in a group, are you comfortable with being seen by one of the practice partners?
If you still aren't sure about your choice, make an appointment to speak with the Doctor about his/ her experience and your concerns. You may have to pay a fee for this service, but it can be a valuable way to avoid problems later.
At Prince Clinic you can book a free appointment to see a surgeon, who can answer your questions and provide you with pratcial information. We understand that it is not easy to find reliable and trustworthy information. We are always happy to help.
