Overview
Webbed penis, medically known as penoscrotal webbing, is a congenital or acquired condition where the skin of the scrotum extends abnormally along the underside of the penis. This web-like skin connection can obscure the natural shape and length of the penis, potentially causing functional, cosmetic, or psychological concerns. Surgical correction is often performed for both medical and aesthetic reasons.
What is Webbed Penis (Penoscrotal Webbing)?
A webbed penis occurs when the skin of the scrotum is abnormally attached to the shaft of the penis, often along the underside (ventral side), giving a “buried” or “shortened” appearance. This condition may be congenital (present at birth) or acquired after circumcision complications. Depending on the degree of webbing, it may interfere with urination, sexual function, or cause embarrassment.
Webbing is categorized as:
- Mild – minimal skin extension without major functional problems
- Moderate to severe – extends further up the shaft and may interfere with sexual or urinary function
Symptoms
The condition may present with the following signs:
- Appearance of a “buried” or shortened penis
- Skin stretching from scrotum to the underside of the penis
- Difficulty with hygiene or urination in young children
- Functional issues during erection in adolescents or adults
- Psychological or self-esteem concerns due to genital appearance
Causes
Penoscrotal webbing can be caused by:
- Congenital malformation – abnormal development of penile and scrotal tissue before birth
- Complications from circumcision, particularly if excess ventral foreskin is removed
- Trauma or surgery in the genital region
- Tissue retraction or scarring from inflammation or infection
Risk Factors
Factors that may increase the likelihood of developing or worsening webbed penis include:
- Improper or incomplete circumcision techniques
- Family history of congenital genital abnormalities
- Premature birth (more common in underdeveloped genital structures)
- Inflammation or infections in the penile area during infancy or childhood
Complications
If left uncorrected, penoscrotal webbing can lead to:
- Cosmetic dissatisfaction or psychological distress
- Functional interference during urination or sexual activity
- Inadequate hygiene due to skin folds
- In rare cases, pain or discomfort during erections
- Reduced self-confidence, especially in adolescence or adulthood
Prevention
While congenital webbing cannot be prevented, acquired cases can often be avoided through:
- Proper circumcision technique by experienced medical professionals
- Avoiding unnecessary circumcision in ambiguous or abnormal penile anatomy
- Post-surgical care to monitor healing and detect complications early
- Education for parents and physicians about early signs and when to seek treatment
Treatment Options in Korea
South Korea provides advanced urological and pediatric surgical care for webbed penis, offering excellent outcomes with minimal scarring. Treatment options include:
- Surgical correction (Z-plasty or V-Y advancement flaps) – to separate scrotal skin and reestablish a normal penoscrotal angle
- Minimally invasive pediatric urology services at hospitals like Severance Children’s Hospital, Seoul National University Hospital, and Asan Medical Center
- Circumcision revision surgery – in cases caused or worsened by prior procedures
- Local or general anesthesia based on the patient’s age and surgical complexity
- Postoperative care – including wound care and monitoring for infection or scar tissue
- Psychological support – for adolescents or adults dealing with body image concerns
Korea’s urological specialists offer discreet, highly skilled care, ensuring patients regain both function and confidence.
