An atheroma, also known as a sebaceous cyst, is a benign lump that can occur in various parts of the body, including the scrotum and penis. It is a sac filled with sebum that can range in size from 1–2 cm to several centimetres. It develops when the duct of a sebaceous gland becomes blocked while the gland continues to produce sebum, resulting in swelling. Atheromas are most removed for cosmetic reasons. However, if an atheroma becomes inflamed, it may cause pain and fever and may require urgent surgical treatment.

A urethral caruncle is a benign, soft, red growth that typically develops at the external opening of the female urethra. It is most associated with reduced oestrogen levels, increased chronic abdominal pressure and recurrent urinary tract infections, and is seen most frequently in postmenopausal women. Small lesions are often symptom-free, but larger urethral caruncles may cause bleeding, vaginal discomfort and symptoms like cystitis. In rare cases, they may resolve spontaneously without treatment. However, surgical excision is recommended when the lesion is large or causes symptoms. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia.

Circumcision is a surgical procedure in which the foreskin is removed. It is most performed for medical reasons, including phimosis (a tight foreskin), chronic inflammation of the foreskin, recurrent urinary tract infections, or recurrent conditions such as genital warts (condyloma) caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). Circumcision may also reduce the risk of certain sexually transmitted infections and penile cancer. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia.

Condyloma (genital warts) are infectious growths that appear as flat or wart-like, flesh-coloured or brown lesions in the genital area. They are caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is transmitted through sexual contact. If left untreated, condylomas may increase in number and can be transmitted to sexual partners. Early treatment is therefore recommended. Laser cauterisation is one of the safest and most effective methods of removing genital warts.

Flexible cystoscopy is a minimally invasive urological diagnostic procedure in which a thin, flexible camera (cystoscope) is passed through the urethra into the bladder. The examination is performed to assess the lining of the urethra and bladder and to investigate a range of urological symptoms, including blood in the urine, recurrent urinary tract infections, urinary symptoms and suspected bladder abnormalities. The procedure is usually carried out as an outpatient appointment using a local anaesthetic gel and takes only a few minutes. Following the examination, patients may experience a temporary mild stinging sensation when passing urine, increased urinary frequency or a small amount of blood in the urine. Most patients can return to their normal daily activities immediately afterwards.

A penile biopsy is a diagnostic surgical procedure in which a small sample of skin or abnormal tissue is taken from the penis for histopathological examination. The procedure is usually performed when an abnormal skin lesion, ulcer, lump, discolouration or suspected tumour is present, and tissue analysis is required to establish an accurate diagnosis. The biopsy is generally performed under local anaesthesia and may involve either a small surgical excision or the use of a specialised biopsy instrument. Healing usually takes from a few days to 1–2 weeks, during which careful hygiene and avoiding irritation of the area are recommended. The histology results play an important role in planning any further treatment.

Frenulotomy is a surgical procedure performed to treat a short penile frenulum (frenulum breve). During the procedure, the frenulum—the band of connective tissue linking the foreskin to the glans penis—is divided to release tension. The operation is recommended when a short frenulum causes pain, recurrent tearing or scarring, interferes with proper hygiene, increases the risk of urethral injury or causes discomfort during sexual activity.

A variety of lesions may develop on the scrotum, many of which require surgical removal. These procedures most commonly involve the excision of atheromas larger than 2 cm (sebaceous cysts) or the removal of lipomas. Both are benign growths, and surgery is most often performed for cosmetic reasons.

Excision of wound edges with suturing is a minor surgical procedure in which the edges of a wound, scar or skin lesion are removed and refreshed to promote optimal healing or to obtain tissue suitable for histopathological examination. The procedure is commonly performed for non-healing wounds, suspicious skin lesions or residual abnormal tissue following previous excision. It is usually carried out under local anaesthesia, after which the wound is closed with sutures. Healing generally takes 1–3 weeks, and stitches are usually removed after 7–14 days, depending on the area of the body involved. Where appropriate, the histology results help guide further treatment.