Is it necessary for a 19-month-old baby to have surgery for excessive foreskin?

Patient's question:

It feels a bit long

Doctor's answer:

Some children under the age of 6 may have excessive foreskin, which is a normal phenomenon. It can only be determined if the foreskin is too long after they reach puberty. After puberty, the foreskin will naturally retract on its own, and surgery is not necessary at an early age.
Your child's red and swollen foreskin may be due to an infection. It is recommended to take your child to the hospital for examination and confirmation. For balanitis, a 1:1500 concentration of potassium permanganate solution can be used for soaking and cleaning to disinfect. Most cases can be resolved with this treatment. If there is also a urinary tract infection, oral antibiotics may be needed in addition.
However, if your child frequently experiences this symptom repeatedly, it may be necessary to consider a circumcision (it is best to consult with a urologist in a reputable hospital).