A buried penis is a medical condition where the penis is hidden or partially concealed beneath the skin of the abdomen, groin, or scrotum. This can lead to various symptoms including difficulties with hygiene, urination, sexual function, and psychological distress. Causes range from obesity and congenital abnormalities to scarring or hormonal imbalances. Treatment options include weight loss, topical treatments, hormonal therapy, or surgical interventions aimed at improving the appearance and function of the penis.

What is buried penis?

“Buried penis” is a medical condition where the penis is partially or completely concealed beneath the skin of the abdomen, groin, or scrotum, making it appear smaller than it actually is or completely hidden. This condition can occur due to various reasons such as obesity, congenital abnormalities, scarring from previous surgeries, or hormonal imbalances. Buried penis can cause issues with hygiene, urination, sexual function, and psychological well-being. Treatment options may include weight loss, hormonal therapy, surgery to release the penis from the surrounding tissue, or reconstructive procedures to restore normal appearance and function.

Causes of  buried penis

There are several potential causes of buried penis, including:

• Obesity: Excess fat in the abdominal and pubic area can bury the penis, making it appear smaller or completely hidden.
• Congenital conditions: Some individuals may be born with anatomical abnormalities that cause the penis to be buried. This can include conditions like congenital lymphedema, where excess fluid accumulates and causes swelling, or abnormal development of the skin and underlying tissue.
• Scarring: Scarring from previous surgeries, trauma, or infections in the genital area can lead to the penis being buried beneath the scar tissue.
• Hormonal imbalances: Disorders affecting hormone levels, such as hypogonadism or androgen insensitivity syndrome, may contribute to the development of buried penis.
• Aging: Changes in the distribution of fat and connective tissue as a person ages can sometimes result in the penis becoming buried.
• Underlying medical conditions: Certain medical conditions like diabetes, which can affect blood flow and tissue health, or conditions causing excessive fluid retention, can contribute to buried penis.
• Idiopathic: In some cases, the exact cause of buried penis may not be identifiable, and it may be considered idiopathic.

It’s important for individuals experiencing symptoms of buried penis to consult with a Urologist for proper diagnosis and treatment. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause and severity of the condition.

Ssymptoms

The symptoms of a buried penis can vary depending on the severity and underlying cause of the condition. Some common symptoms include:

• Concealed appearance: The most obvious symptom is that the penis is hidden or partially hidden beneath the skin of the abdomen, groin, or scrotum, making it appear smaller than it actually is or completely hidden.
• Difficulty with hygiene: Due to the hidden nature of the penis, maintaining proper hygiene can be challenging, leading to issues such as accumulation of sweat, bacteria, and debris.
• Urinary difficulties: A buried penis may interfere with normal urination, leading to issues such as spraying or dribbling of urine, difficulty aiming, or incomplete emptying of the bladder.
• Sexual dysfunction: Buried penis can impact sexual function, causing difficulties with achieving or maintaining erections, discomfort during sexual activity, or decreased sensation.
• Psychological distress: The condition can also have psychological implications, leading to feelings of embarrassment, low self-esteem, or depression.
• Skin irritation or infection: The concealed area of the penis may be prone to skin irritation, chafing, or infections due to trapped moisture, sweat, and bacteria.
• Pain or discomfort: Some individuals with a buried penis may experience pain or discomfort in the genital area, particularly during physical activities or when wearing tight clothing.

It’s important to note that not all individuals with a buried penis will experience all of these symptoms, and the severity can vary from person to person. If you suspect you have a buried penis or are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.

Buried Penis Examination

Examination of a buried penis typically involves a thorough physical assessment by a Urologist. Here’s what you might expect during the examination:

• Medical History: Urologist will begin by asking questions about your medical history, including any past surgeries, injuries, or medical conditions that may be relevant to the buried penis.
• Physical Examination: Doctor will conduct a physical examination of the genital area. This may involve inspecting the external appearance of the penis, scrotum, and surrounding tissues while you’re in a standing, lying down, or seated position.
• Measurement: Urologist may measure the size of the penis both when flaccid and when erect, if possible. This can help assess the degree of burying and any associated changes in penile length.
• Skin Condition: Doctor will examine the skin in the genital area for signs of irritation, infection, scarring, or other abnormalities that may be contributing to or resulting from the buried penis.
• Urinary Function: Your urologist may inquire about any urinary symptoms you’re experiencing and may assess your ability to urinate normally, including checking for any difficulties with aiming or emptying the bladder.
• Sexual Function: Depending on your symptoms and concerns, your healthcare provider may also ask questions about your sexual function and may perform additional assessments to evaluate erectile function, sensation, and any discomfort during sexual activity.
• Psychological Assessment: Your urologist may also inquire about any psychological or emotional distress you may be experiencing due to the buried penis and its impact on your self-esteem, body image, and quality of life.

Based on the findings of the examination, your doctor may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as imaging studies or blood tests, to help determine the underlying cause of the buried penis and to guide treatment planning. Treatment options may include lifestyle modifications, medications, or surgical interventions, depending on the severity and underlying cause of the condition.

Buried Penis Treatment

Treatment for a buried penis depends on the underlying cause, severity of the condition, and individual patient factors. Here are some common treatment options:

• Weight loss: For individuals whose buried penis is caused or exacerbated by obesity, weight loss through diet and exercise may help reduce excess fat in the pubic area, allowing the penis to become more visible.
• Topical treatments: In cases where there is skin irritation or infection, topical medications or ointments may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
• Hormonal therapy: For individuals with hormonal imbalances contributing to the buried penis, hormone replacement therapy may be recommended to restore normal hormone levels.
• Surgical intervention:

Penile release surgery: This involves releasing the penis from the surrounding tissue to allow it to protrude outward. Different surgical techniques may be used depending on the specific anatomy and severity of the burying.

Liposuction: In cases where excess fat is the primary cause of burying, liposuction may be performed to remove fat deposits in the pubic area and improve penile visibility.

Reconstructive surgery: In severe cases or when there are congenital abnormalities, reconstructive surgery may be necessary to reshape the genital area and improve the appearance and function of the penis.

Penile implants: In cases of erectile dysfunction or inadequate penile size, penile implants may be considered to restore erectile function and improve the appearance of the penis.

• Psychological support: Counseling or therapy may be beneficial for individuals experiencing psychological distress related to their buried penis, helping them cope with body image issues, improve self-esteem, and address any underlying emotional concerns.

The choice of treatment will be tailored to each individual’s specific needs and circumstances, and may involve a combination of different approaches. It’s important for individuals with a buried penis to consult with a Urologist to discuss treatment options and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Buried Penis Complications

Complications of buried penis surgery can vary depending on the specific surgical technique used, the individual’s overall health, and other factors. Some potential complications may include:

• Infection: Like any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection at the surgical site. This risk can be minimized by following proper sterile techniques during the surgery and post-operative care.
• Bleeding: Excessive bleeding during or after surgery can occur, which may require further medical intervention to control.
• Hematoma: Accumulation of blood under the skin at the surgical site can lead to a hematoma, causing swelling, pain, and potential complications.
• Wound dehiscence: This refers to the reopening of the surgical incision before it has fully healed, which can lead to delayed wound healing and increased risk of infection.
• Scarring: Surgery may result in visible scarring at the surgical site, although efforts are usually made to minimize scarring as much as possible.
• Pain and discomfort: It’s common to experience some level of pain and discomfort following surgery, which can usually be managed with pain medication.
• Urinary complications: Surgery near the genital area can sometimes lead to urinary complications such as difficulty urinating or urinary tract infections.
• Cosmetic dissatisfaction: Despite surgical intervention, some individuals may not achieve the desired cosmetic outcome, leading to dissatisfaction with the results.
• Erectile dysfunction: Depending on the extent of the surgery and any underlying conditions, there may be a risk of erectile dysfunction following buried penis surgery.
• Psychological effects: Dealing with the condition of a buried penis and undergoing surgery can have psychological effects such as anxiety, depression, or body image issues.

How is results after surgery?

The outcome of surgery for buried penis can vary depending on several factors including the individual’s overall health, the specific surgical technique used, and any complications that may arise during or after the procedure.

In general, surgical treatment for buried penis aims to improve the appearance, functionality, and quality of life for the individual. This can involve procedures such as penile reconstruction, release of penile skin, and repositioning of the penis to make it more visible and functional.

After surgery, patients may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which are typically temporary. It may take some time for the full results of the surgery to be apparent, and there may be a period of healing and adjustment.

Overall, the success of surgery for buried penis is often measured by improvements in the appearance and functionality of the penis, as well as improvements in the individual’s quality of life and self-esteem. It’s essential for patients to follow their surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully and attend follow-up appointments to monitor their progress and address any concerns or complications that may arise.

Summary

A buried penis is a medical condition where the penis is partially or completely concealed beneath the skin of the abdomen, groin, or scrotum. This can result from factors such as obesity, congenital abnormalities, scarring, hormonal imbalances, or aging. Symptoms may include difficulty with hygiene, urinary issues, sexual dysfunction, skin irritation, and psychological distress. Treatment options range from lifestyle changes like weight loss, to topical treatments, hormonal therapy, or surgical interventions such as penile release surgery or reconstructive procedures. Treatment is tailored to the individual’s needs and may involve a combination of approaches to address the underlying cause and improve the appearance and function of the penis.

Prof. Dr. Emin ÖZBEK

Urologist

Istanbul- TURKEY