What is the prognosis for phimosis?

Phimosis is a condition in which the foreskin cannot be retracted adequately to expose the glans penis. Treatment for phimosis is usually done to prevent complications associated with poor penile hygiene if the foreskin cannot be easily cleaned as a result of being narrowed.

Most cases of phimosis can be resolved and have normal penile development by puberty; those few boys with persistent foreskin narrowing can choose between surgery and nonsurgical approaches, but ultimately surgical outcomes provide optimal correction. Therefore, the prognosis of phimosis is favourable as it can normally be corrected with non-surgical techniques or a simple surgical procedure that has an excellent prognosis and long-term outcome.