Dr. Nguyen Duc Tuan, Head of the Pediatric Surgery Department at Tam Anh General Hospital TP HCM, diagnosed Dat with a buried penis. This condition means the penis is of normal size but is obscured by a thick layer of pubic fat or unstable anchoring structures. The condition persisted for 12 years without improvement, causing the boy difficulties with hygiene and leading to self-consciousness. Doctors recommended genital corrective surgery to prevent complications.

The pediatric surgery team operates on Dat. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Doctors instructed Dat to adjust his diet and increase physical activity for weight loss before the operation. After two months, he lost 3 kg, reaching 55 kg, which qualified him for surgery.

The surgical team employed the Lipszyc method, which involves anchoring the genital shaft to the Dartos fascia—a thin layer of connective tissue containing smooth muscle fibers. This technique minimizes unsightly scars and avoids incisions in the scrotum. After the surgery, Dat was alert and discharged after 3 days.

A buried penis in overweight children can sometimes improve with weight loss. However, if the organ frequently retracts, causes hygiene difficulties, or persists for many years, parents should seek early medical consultation for appropriate intervention.

Minh Tam