NMC | MC of older boys and men |
Is a simple surgical procedure by competent doctor | More complex |
Quick: takes several minutes | Takes 30 minutes or more |
Cost is lower | Much more expensive and often unaffordable |
Low risk of adverse events (0.4%), most minor | Higher risk of adverse events (4% - 8%) |
Any bleeding is minimal and easily stopped | Bleeding is more common, requiring cautery or other interventions |
Sutures not needed | Sutures or tissue glue are needed |
Convenient since the baby sleeps most of the day | Inconvenient owing to need for time off school or work |
Local anesthesia used if aged <2 months | General anesthesia for age 2 months to age 9 years. For men local anesthesia may be used, although general anesthesia is sometimes preferred by the surgeon |
Healing is fast (1 - 2 weeks) | Healing takes ≥6 weeks |
Cosmetic outcome usually good | If stitches are used, stitch marks may be visible permanently |
No long-term memory of procedure | Fear posed to the boy or man of undergoing an operation |
Does not disrupt breast-feeding or other day-to-day activities | Abstinence from sexual intercourse required for the ≥6-week healing period |