About this service
A dorsal slit of the foreskin is a minor surgical procedure available in Windhoek used to relieve a tight foreskin that cannot retract normally, a condition known as phimosis. It involves a small controlled cut to widen the opening of the foreskin, easing discomfort and reducing complications linked to a tight foreskin. It's often chosen as a quicker alternative to full circumcision when appropriate.
At Eastgate Clinic this procedure is performed in our on-site day theatre, with consultation and follow-up managed by your GP in our rooms. Your doctor will assess your symptoms and advise which option suits you best.
What to expect
- Your doctor examines the foreskin to check for scarring or infection and discusses whether a dorsal slit or circumcision is more suitable.
- A single small cut is made along the top of the foreskin under anaesthesia and the edges stitched, leaving the foreskin in place.
- Healing takes one to two weeks with gentle washing and loose underwear.
- Some men later choose circumcision for appearance, which your doctor can discuss at follow-up.
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- A tight foreskin that won't retract comfortably
- Pain or difficulty with urination linked to a tight foreskin
- Recurring infections under the foreskin
- Discomfort during erections due to foreskin tightness
- Phimosis diagnosed by your doctor on examination
Frequently asked questions
Is a dorsal slit the same as circumcision?
No. A dorsal slit makes a small cut along the top of a tight foreskin to widen the opening, while circumcision removes the foreskin completely. It is quicker and may be chosen when full circumcision is not wanted or not advised.
When is a dorsal slit needed urgently?
When the foreskin is stuck behind the head of the penis and swelling, known as paraphimosis, a dorsal slit relieves it promptly. Seek care the same day if this happens.
What is the recovery like after a dorsal slit?
You go home the same day and heal over one to two weeks with gentle daily washing. The foreskin will look a little different afterwards and your doctor explains this beforehand.
For referring doctors
This procedure can be booked in Eastgate Clinic's on-site day theatre in Windhoek, with anaesthetist and theatre staff provided. Contact us to arrange theatre time for your patient.
Day theatre information for doctorsReady to book your dorsal slit of foreskin?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.