You may have wondered about the terminology used to describe the penis. It is particularly important with foreskin restoration because descriptions of the methods used often involve specific terminology, and hence, some basic understanding of one's penis and the words used to describe things is essential. Some men may be unsure whether they themselves are circumcised or not. It's probably worth mentioning that the pictures used to illustrate this page can likely be considered representative of circumcised, natural (i.e., intact or uncircumcised), and restored penises. However, a large natural variation exists in size, shape, pigmentation, and so on among individuals, as is the case with hair color, height, weight, and so on. A glossary defining various terms follows the photos.

From left to right, a natural (i.e., intact or uncircumcised) penis; a circumcised penis; and a circumcised penis after completion of the foreskin restoration process.
Anatomy of a circumcised penis. This individual has recently begun restoration, and is starting to show accumulation of extra skin in the form of "bunched-up" skin.
A natural or intact (uncircumcised) penis. From left to right, foreskin covering the glans; foreskin retracted on a flaccid penis; close-up of glans covered by foreskin.
Anatomy of the natural penis. Close-up shows a cutaway schematic of the covered glans.
Underside anatomy of the intact penis with the foreskin retracted. Note the frenulum. (The frenulum is not restored by the non-surgical restoration process.)
The foreskin of the natural penis shown previously does not completely cover the glans. In some men, however, the foreskin does extend beyond the glans naturally or through the process of restoration. This is commonly referred to as "overhang."

Terminology Guide

Here is a guide to the terminology used herein, and some additional important terms as well:

Circumcision scar. The scar left after the healing fusion of shaft skin and inner foreskin. It may differ in pigmentation and/or texture from the surrounding skin.

Corona. The rounded ridge of the glans.

Foreskin. A retractable covering of skin that partially or completely ensheathes the glans in an intact male. A more technical term is the prepuce. During infant circumcision, most or all of the outer foreskin and much of the inner foreskin is removed, often with a good deal of shaft skin. Usually 50-80% of the total penile skin is removed. In adult circumcisions, portions of the inner and outer foreskin may remain. During erection, the foreskin rolls back on itself, exposing the glans. During sexual activity, the foreskin acts as a linear bearing, allowing the penis to glide in and out of its sheath of skin.

Ridged band or Frenar band Elastic tissue at the tip of the foreskin (between the inner and outer foreskin) and extending somewhat on the inner surface of the foreskin that helps contract the tip of the foreskin allow it to remain positioned over the glans. Very rich in specialized erogenous nerve receptors. See this web site for further details about the ridged band.

Frenulum or Frenum. An elastic band of tissue under the glans that connects to the foreskin and helps contract the foreskin over the glans. It is often partially or totally removed during circumcision.

Glans (or glans penis). The head or tip of the penis. It is singular even though it ends in “s”.

Prepuce. The more formal term for foreskin.

Shaft skin. A part of the penile sheath that covers the shaft up to the foreskin or circumcision scar. Up to 80% may be removed during infant circumcision. During restoration, stimulation of this skin along with remnants of the inner foreskin generates new skin which creates the restored foreskin.

Sulcus. The grooved connection between the glans and the shaft of the penis.

Urethra. The tube through the penis in which urine and semen flow.

Urinary meatus. Opening at the tip of the penis where urine and semen exit the body.

Many thanks to Derrick Townsend who originally prepared this glossary and some of the above photos.

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How does the foreskin work?

Many circumcised men, as well as many women, have never seen a normal (intact) penis. They may be curious as to how the only moving part of the penis works. A type of "linear bearing," the gliding motion of the foreskin provides mechanical lubrication to facilitate sexual activity, reducing abrasion for both partners and reducing the need for any additional type of lubrication.

Click here for an animated series of photos showing the gliding motion of the foreskin (Note: file is 94K; use your browser's "Back" button to return).

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Problem circumcisions

Many of the problems experienced by circumcised men are never acknowledged by the medical community. The only circumcision "complications" discussed in the medical literature are those which occur shortly after the procedure, such as hemorrhage and infection. Many other problems only become evident with the growth occurring during puberty or later in life during sexual activity. Many men are unaware that it is not normal to have coarse pubic hair growing over halfway up the shaft for example. Many are hesitant to ask questions about their circumcisions for fear of ridicule. Here are some examples of common "problem" circumcisions.

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