Buried Penis: A Hidden Problem in Obese Men

Buried penis, when your penis is normal in size and function but is hidden by swollen skin or folds of fat, can be uncomfortable, lead to complications, and cause psychological harm. Dr. Paul Chung and his talented team can help. He has written extensively about the condition and understands the need for empathy and discretion in providing your treatment. 

Causes of buried penis

There are four main causes of buried penis: 

1. Excess fat
2. Fluid retention - genital lymphedema 
3. Abnormally weak ligaments
4. Complications resulting from circumcision 

The majority of adult men who develop buried penis are obese. The folds of fat cover your penis, making hygiene difficult, sexual intercourse difficult or impossible, and potentially causing complications such as skin infections or urinary tract infections.

Genital lymphedema refers to fluid retention, often in your scrotum. When your lymph fluids don’t drain properly and accumulate in your scrotum, swelling occurs. If the swelling becomes severe enough, your penis can become hidden. 

The last two causes of buried penis are usually known before you reach adulthood. Complications resulting from circumcision can happen when either too much or too little foreskin is removed during the procedure, causing the remaining skin to pull forward, hiding your penis. Excessively weak ligaments attaching your penis to your body are present from birth. 

Complications from buried penis

No matter the cause of buried penis, the problems that may result are the same. You may have problems urinating properly, which in turn, can lead to urinary tract infections, or problems with hygiene.

Hygiene is a frequent concern in men with buried penis. Being unable to keep yourself clean and dry can cause skin irritation or even infection causing pain and discomfort.

Finally, sexual intercourse, or even getting an erection, can be difficult or impossible with buried penis. You may feel frustrated, embarrassed, or experience anxiety or depression because of this. 

Diagnosing and treating buried penis

Dr. Chung can diagnose buried penis with a physical examination. If you need treatment for a urinary tract or skin infection, he can help with that, too. 

In most cases, surgery is necessary to correct buried penis. The type of surgery depends on the cause of the problem. It often involves removing your suprapubic fat pad, which is the fat that is likely hiding your penis. He may also perform with assistance of a plastic surgeon a procedure called abdominoplasty to remove excess fat and skin from your lower abdomen.

If you have genital lymphedema, Dr. Chung may remove swollen scrotal or penile shaft tissue. In many instances, a skin graft is necessary because the skin of your penis and scrotum has been damaged.

Before Dr. Chung suggests a course of treatment for you, he discusses your situation to make sure you understand what’s going on and how it might be effectively treated. You can expect compassionate care from a highly qualified expert. 

If you suspect you may have buried penis, schedule an appointment today to find out how it can be treated.