At what age is it most appropriate for a child to undergo circumcision surgery?

Generally, there is no optimal time for children to undergo surgery for phimosis; it is commonly performed between the ages of 5 to 10. However, if specific symptoms exist, earlier intervention may be necessary. If there are any concerns, it is recommended to seek medical advice in advance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Between the ages of 5 and 10, a child's reproductive system enters a relatively stable stage of development, with better physical tolerance and a certain level of cooperation, enabling more effective preoperative evaluation and postoperative care. Performing surgery at this stage can prevent long-term effects of phimosis on genital development and reduce the risk of recurrent infections caused by the accumulation of smegma. Additionally, the recovery period after surgery is shorter, causing minimal disruption to daily activities and schooling.

If a child exhibits significant abnormalities before age 5, such as extreme narrowing of the foreskin opening causing difficulty in urination, urine retention leading to recurrent balanoposthitis, or swelling of the foreskin like a blister during urination, surgery should not be limited by age and should be promptly arranged. Early intervention can prevent worsening symptoms and avoid long-term impacts on urinary tract health and genital development.

Determining the appropriate timing for surgery should be based on the child's actual condition. Parents are advised to regularly take their child to a reputable hospital's pediatric or urology department for check-ups, allowing doctors to evaluate and decide based on individual circumstances, avoiding blind waiting or premature surgery.