Whether you’re looking to make your first appointment or have already been diagnosed with buried penis syndrome, MU Health Care offers specialized care and treatment options that can help.
Buried penis, or concealed penis, happens when the penis is partially or completely hidden beneath the skin. It can be caused by extra skin, weight-related factors or developmental abnormalities. Buried penis can lead to challenges with urination and sexual function.
Having a conversation with your urologist is the first step to finding treatment options that work best for you.
At MU Health Care, we start by listening to what you’re experiencing day to day. We’ll then walk you through your options and build a care plan that fits your needs and goals.
Buried Penis Symptoms
If you have a buried penis, the shaft can be partially or fully hidden beneath extra skin or fat, especially in the pubic area.
Symptoms can vary, but in some cases — especially if the penis can’t be easily exposed — you may notice:
- Changes in sexual function: You might notice less sensation, experience trouble with erections or feel limited during intimacy.
- Difficulty staying clean: Moisture or trapped bacteria can cause skin issues or infections.
- Emotional stress: Many patients report feeling frustrated, anxious or self-conscious about the look and function of their penis.
- Pain or irritation: The skin on or around the penis can become sore or uncomfortable, especially if infections develop.
- Trouble peeing: Buried penis syndrome can make it difficult to aim your urine, which may lead to irritation or infections.
When to Seek Care for Buried Penis
If buried penis is affecting your health, daily routine or emotional well-being, it’s time to talk with your doctor.
Getting care early can make symptoms more manageable, prevent complications and open the door to more treatment options.
Causes of Buried Penis
Buried penis can occur in individuals with a penis at any age. Common causes include:
- Circumcision complications: Removal of too much or too little skin can cause the penis to retract into nearby tissue.
- Congenital differences: Some people are born with skin that causes the penis to retract inward.
- Injury: Trauma to the lower abdomen or genitals can change the anatomy, resulting in a buried penis.
- Lymphedema: Fluid buildup in the scrotum can lead to swelling that covers the penis.
- Obesity: Excess fat in the lower abdomen or pubic area can conceal the penis.
- Scarring from surgery: Previous procedures in the groin or abdomen can alter skin or fat distribution, leading to a buried penis.
- Skin conditions: Inflammatory conditions such as hidradenitis suppurativa can cause scarring or tissue changes.
How We Diagnose Buried Penis
At MU Health Care, we start with understanding your symptoms, health history and any contributing factors.
We use the following tools to diagnose buried penis:
- A physical exam to assess how much of the penis is concealed and check for skin or tissue abnormalities.
- A review of your medical history to look at factors like past surgeries or changes in weight.
- Imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI to get a clearer view of your anatomy and what might be contributing to this condition.
- Specialist input from our experts can confirm whether hormone or urinary issues are at play.
How We Treat Buried Penis
At MU Health Care, once we understand what’s contributing to your condition, we’ll go over your options and build a personalized care plan.
Nonsurgical Treatment Options for Buried Penis
Depending on the cause of your condition, treatment may include:
- Psychological support: We may recommend counseling if you have emotional stress or self-esteem concerns.
- Skin care: We can address irritation or any skin issues that may be making your symptoms worse.
- Weight management: Losing weight can reduce fatty tissue in the pubic area and help relieve symptoms.
Surgical Treatment Options for Buried Penis
If your symptoms require greater intervention or don’t improve with nonsurgical treatment, we may recommend surgery. Our team of highly skilled and experienced surgeons can remove excess skin or fatty tissue in the pubic or genital area and reconstruct the penis and surrounding structures to improve appearance and function.
Recovery and Support After Buried Penis Treatment
Recovery depends on your treatment plan, but we’re here to support you through every step. Post-treatment care may include:
- Follow-up visits to track healing and adjust care as needed.
- Guidance on hygiene and long-term care to help you maintain results and avoid complications.
Personalized Buried Penis Treatment Begins Here
Buried penis can cause discomfort and affect hygiene and confidence, but with the right care, it can be treated swiftly and effectively.
At MU Health Care, our team brings together specialists from different fields, advanced technology and the latest research to provide exceptional care all under one roof.
Why Choose MU Health Care for Buried Penis Care
- Advanced surgical options: We offer the latest minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgical techniques – including vasectomy, reconstruction and cancer surgery – for faster recovery and better outcomes.
- Expert care across all ages and conditions: Our board-certified urologists treat everything from kidney stones to prostate issues, erectile dysfunction and urologic cancers.
- Full-spectrum urologic care in one place: As part of an academic health system, we bring together specialists, leading research and advanced technology to provide effective, personalized care at every stage.
