A hidden penis is a recognized medical condition characterized by a partially visible or completely inconspicuous penis. Also known as a buried penis or hidden penis, there are many causes for this condition. The most common factors that influence the development of a hidden penis are the abnormal growth of fat around the abdomen, thighs and scrotum; weight and body type; extreme circumcision; and aging.
In most people with a hidden penis, the organ is partially or completely hidden by layers of fat. This gives the impression that the penis is unusually small, but in reality it is only buried in the skin and a small portion protrudes from the body. The condition is further distinguished by loose skin around the organ axis or an extremely tight foreskin.
The vast majority of hidden cases of the penis are congenital and present immediately at birth. However, a diagnosis cannot be made until the patient is a little older. Research shows that it is important to diagnose and treat hidden penis in youth, as the condition can lead to problems later on, primarily frequent urinary tract infections and sexual dysfunction.
Some are born with or develop an excessive bag of skin around the groin area. This pocket may not be very pronounced, but it may be noticeable enough to hide part of the penis. Such a circumstance can be altered by the removal of fat and skin around the area. In some cases, the area is all fat wrapped in a bag of stretched skin; These cases can benefit from liposuction, which absorbs fat from the area. Weight gain at different times in life can also cause the condition to arise.
Circumcision is another big culprit in hidden penis development. Removing the foreskin is a sensitive process, and the person performing the procedure can easily remove too much skin. This causes the skin of the penis and the skin of the scrotum to stick together, resulting in a hidden penis.
Age plays another factor in the development of a hidden penis. As the body ages, the skin loses elasticity and begins to sag. In some individuals, the skin will fold to such an extent that it envelops all or part of the penis. This is especially true for aging overweight people.
Surgery is often done to remedy this condition. The procedure frees the penis of the surrounding skin and fat. Since the hidden penis can lead to health problems later in life, it is often done while an individual is still young.