Circumcision is the surgical removal of the skin covering the tip of the penis. The procedure is fairly common for newborn boys in certain parts of the world, including the United States. Newborn circumcision is often performed in the hospital nursery or by your pediatrician shortly after discharge. Circumcision after the newborn period is possible, but it's a more complex procedure and often performed by a urologist.
Although cancer of the penis is rare, it's less common in circumcised men. In addition, cervical cancer is less common in the female sexual partners of circumcised men.
Circumcision is similar for older boys and adults. However, the procedure might need to be done under general anesthesia, recovery might take longer and the risk of complications might be greater when done later in life.