The term buried penis was first introduced by Dr. Edward Loughborough Keyes in 1919. This condition occurs when the penis is hidden beneath the surrounding skin and tissues, making it less visible or completely concealed. Over time, it has also been called concealed penis, hidden penis, inconspicuous penis, trapped penis, and vanishing penis.
What are the Reasons in AdultsBuried Penis?
In adults, a buried penis can develop due to several reasons:
- Obesity: Excess fat can cover the penis.
- Skin conditions: Conditions like hidradenitis suppurativa (chronic skin inflammation) and lichen sclerosus (white patches of skin).
- Surgical complications: Problems following surgeries like circumcision or cosmetic procedures.
- Infections: Bacterial or fungal infections can damage the skin.
- Lymphedema: Swelling due to fluid buildup, often following surgeries or infections.
- Trauma: Injury to the pelvic area.
- Tight clothing: Wearing tight underwear can lead to infections that contribute to this condition.
Symptoms of Buried Penis
Men with a buried penis often experience:
- Urinary problems: Difficulty starting urination, poor flow, dribbling, and incontinence (loss of bladder control).
- Infections: Bacterial and fungal infections around the genital area.
- Phimosis: Tightening of the foreskin, making it difficult to pull back.
- Psychological issues: Feelings of depression and low self-esteem.
- Sexual problems: Difficulty with erections and painful or impossible sexual activity.
How Is Buried Penis Diagnosed?
To diagnose a buried penis, a doctor will:
- Take a detailed medical history, including any weight changes and previous surgeries.
- Conduct a physical examination, both standing and lying down, to check the penis and surrounding areas for swelling, thickened skin, or other abnormalities.
- Assess if the penis can be revealed by gently pressing the surrounding tissues.
What Are The Treatment Options for Buried Penis?
Multidisciplinary Approach
Treating a buried penis often involves a team of specialists, including:
- Urologists: Doctors who specialise in the urinary and male reproductive systems.
- Bariatric surgeons: Surgeons who specialise in weight loss surgery.
- Plastic surgeons: Surgeons who focus on reconstructive procedures.
- Primary care physicians: General doctors who manage overall health.
- Dietitians: Nutrition experts.
- Psychiatrists: Mental health professionals.
Surgical Treatments
The specific treatment depends on the cause and extent of the condition, but general approaches include:
- Freeing the penis: Releasing any bands or scars holding the penis back.
- Circumcision: to address the tight foreskin
- Removing excess fat: From the lower abdomen and around the pubic area.
- Properly suspending the penis: To prevent it from retracting.
- Restoring skin: Using skin grafts (transplanting skin from another area of the body).
- Scrotal surgery: If necessary, to address issues with the scrotum.
Potential Complications
While surgery can be very successful, possible complications include:
- Unusual scarring.
- Formation of small lumps (granulomas).
- Shortening or deformity of the penis.
- Ongoing psychological or sexual issues.
Despite these risks, most men are happy with the results, finding both function and appearance improved after surgery.
Words of Wisdom from a Urologist
Obesity is a major cause of adult-acquired buried penis. A buried penis is a normal-sized penis that either appears short or is hidden from view by abdominal or suprapubic skin or fat. Proper evaluation and a multidisciplinary treatment approach are crucial for effective management. Surgical interventions are generally successful, leading to better functional and aesthetic outcomes.
