A buried penis is a condition where the actual size and shape of the penis are normal but hidden beneath surrounding tissue or skin folds. This concealment can be caused by fat accumulation in the lower abdomen, the area around the penis (mons pubis), upper thighs, or scrotum. In some cases, reversed skin attachment on the penis may also make it appear hidden or invisible from the outside.
In some individuals, this condition is congenital (present at birth), while in others, it may develop over time due to changes such as weight gain or other factors. In infants and children, the appearance of the penis may improve as they grow, but in some cases, medical treatment is necessary to ensure normal function and genital development.
At Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital, buried penis cases are managed by experienced pediatric urology consultant dr. Hendy Mirza, Sp.U (K). He specializes in diagnosing and performing pediatric urological reconstruction, including buried penis, with a safe, effective, and aesthetic-focused approach to ensure optimal function and confidence in patients.
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What causes buried penis?
Buried penis can be caused by several factors, either congenital or acquired. In some cases, it occurs due to anatomical differences where the skin at the base of the penis attaches abnormally, causing the penis to appear buried within surrounding fat tissue.
Other potential causes include:
- Obesity (BMI over 40): Excessive fat buildup in the abdominal and genital area can cover the penis.
- Genital lymphedema: Swelling in the scrotal area due to lymphatic system obstruction, leading to fluid buildup around the penis.
- Post-circumcision complications: If too much or too little foreskin is removed, the penis may appear sunken into surrounding tissue.
- Hidradenitis suppurativa: Inflammation of the sweat glands (apocrine glands) that can cause abscesses or fistulas, leading to buried penis.
These causes can affect both children and adults, making medical evaluation important to determine the most appropriate treatment.
Symptoms of buried penis to watch for
In most cases, buried penis does not cause serious symptoms. The main sign is that the penis appears hidden or not visibly protruding from surrounding fat or skin. In both children and adults, this may lead to difficulty urinating or maintaining proper hygiene in the genital area. In mild cases, the penis can become visible when the surrounding tissue is gently pressed inward.
However, if inflammation or scar tissue forms around the genital area, the penis may become trapped and unable to be exposed at all. This can cause symptoms such as:
- Pain or discomfort in the genital area.
- Unpleasant odor due to trapped moisture or buildup of debris.
- Skin or soft tissue infection around the penis, characterized by redness, swelling, and irritation.
If these symptoms occur, it is important to consult a doctor immediately for diagnosis and treatment before the condition worsens.
What happens if buried penis is left untreated?
If left untreated, buried penis can lead to several physical and psychological complications, such as:
- Difficulty urinating, with urine dripping onto the scrotum, thighs, or clothing.
- Obstructed urine flow due to scar tissue, making it difficult or impossible to urinate while standing.
- Poor hygiene in the genital area, causing dirt and moisture buildup.
- Increased risk of skin irritation, infection, and urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to inadequate cleaning.
- Sexual dysfunction, including difficulty achieving erection or performing penetration.
- Pain and irritation, especially if accompanied by skin conditions such as lichen sclerosus, which causes thinning and discoloration of penile skin.
- Psychological effects such as reduced self-confidence, anxiety, depression, or stress related to changes in genital appearance and function.
Proper medical treatment is essential to prevent these complications and help patients regain normal function and a better quality of life.
Buried penis treatment at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital by dr. Hendy Mirza
Treatment for buried penis can vary depending on its cause and severity. In infants and children, the condition sometimes improves naturally with growth and may not require medical intervention. However, if buried penis is accompanied by urinary issues, infection, or anatomical abnormalities that interfere with genital function, medical management becomes necessary.
At Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital, dr. Hendy Mirza provides expert care for both pediatric and adult buried penis cases using a comprehensive and stepwise approach, including:
- Medication, such as antibiotics to treat genital infections.
- Weight management, including nutritional education and supervised weight loss programs to help improve the appearance and function of the penis.
- Psychological counseling, to help patients cope with stress, low self-esteem, or sexual dysfunction associated with the condition.
- Surgical reconstruction in more severe cases, aimed at restoring normal penile anatomy. The procedure may include removing scar tissue, releasing ligaments at the base of the penis, and placing internal sutures to maintain proper positioning.
With his extensive experience in pediatric urological reconstruction, dr. Hendy Mirza and the team at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital are committed to providing safe, effective, and aesthetically optimal results for every patient.
Clinic Schedule of dr. Hendy Mirza at Mandaya Royal Puri Hospital
- Monday: 16.00 – 19.00 WIB
- Wednesday: 16.00 – 19.00 WIB
- Friday: 16.00 – 19.00 WIB
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