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Circumcision

Male circumcision is an elective surgery to remove the foreskin, a fold of skin that covers and protects the rounded tip of the penis. This surgery is most commonly done on newborns about 24 hours old.

Newborn circumcision is not medically necessary. The decision whether to have it done is based on the personal preference of the parents.

Last Revised: January 27, 2012

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine & John Pope, MD - Pediatrics

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