Penis size is a common concern for many men, and it’s true that only half of men are happy with their member. However, for some men, a condition called Buried Penis can make their penis appear shorter than it actually is, even if it’s of average size. This condition, also known as hidden penis or retractile penis, is not common, but it can have a significant impact on a man’s life.
Dr. Hana Patel, an NHS GP, explains that Buried Penis occurs when a normal-sized penis is covered by excess skin, subcutaneous tissue, and/or fat in the area around the pubic bone. While it’s uncommon – affecting less than 4% of newborn boys in Japan – Buried Penis is usually present at birth (congenital). In adults, it’s often associated with obesity.
The condition can affect a man’s sex life, making it difficult to achieve or maintain an erection. It can also cause pain during erections, and even if a man can achieve an erection, the penis may not fully protrude due to the excess tissue covering it. Beyond sexual dysfunction, men with Buried Penis may also experience difficulty urinating and keeping the penis clean.
It’s important to distinguish Buried Penis from micropenis, a separate condition. A micropenis is diagnosed at birth and refers to an unusually small penis. The penis itself is otherwise normal, as are the scrotum and perineum. Micropenises occur in just 0.6% of men worldwide, although this is still a significant number of people. The official definition of a micropenis is a penis that measures a maximum of 2.75 inches when fully erect.
While obesity is a common cause of Buried Penis, it’s not the only one. Other causes can include:
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Penile skin deficiency:
This can occur after circumcision, trauma, or complications from penile enlargement surgery.*
Fournier’s gangrene:
This is a rare but life-threatening bacterial infection that affects the tissue around the testicles, penis, and perineum.*
Scrotal lymphedema:
This long-term condition causes swelling in the scrotal tissue due to a malfunctioning lymphatic system.The impact of Buried Penis on a man’s health goes beyond physical symptoms. Many men experience emotional and mental health issues, particularly if the condition is associated with morbid obesity. This can lead to low self-esteem, depression, and anxiety.
Treatment for Buried Penis depends on the underlying cause. For those whose condition is linked to obesity, weight loss can improve symptoms. For others, surgery may be necessary to remove excess skin, fat, or scar tissue, freeing the penis. This surgery can improve urinary and sexual function as well as mental and psychological well-being. Psychological counseling can also be beneficial, especially for men struggling with depression or anxiety related to the condition.
If you’re concerned about Buried Penis, it’s important to speak to your doctor. They can help you understand your specific situation and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.
