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Restoration Product Comparison - UPDATED 7/12/2004
The following is based on actual comparisons of various foreskin restoration methods and commercial devices. I have not included too many homemade devices, since each person may build them differently, and there are too many variations to list here. If you have a homemade device that is well-defined and fairly standardized, I would be happy to add it to the list.

Comparison Criteria:

Device/Method Type
The chart indicates the type of application to the skin and the method by which force is applied to enable restoration. Each device/method is unique and has an appropriate range of safety and productivity for a given person. There is also a learning curve for effective and comfortable use. Some devices have design characteristics not compared in the chart, such as frenulum-friendliness, a bendable strut for comfort adjustment, or stainless-steel construction.

Having more than one type of device can be helpful for the restoration process, based on the activities planned each day, regardless whether you plan to build or buy the equipment (see category descriptions on FRR). The amount of foreskin needed for a particular device is shown. This is the amount of foreskin (in the flaccid, non-retracted state) needed to comfortably use the device.

Restoration Rate / Undesirable Tug
The rate at which new cells develop in the inner and outer foreskin are evaluated. This rate is very slow no matter what method is used, so all comparisons are relative. Each is listed as a subjective estimate of the maximum rate that can comfortably and reliably be achieved, based on how tension is applied to the skin with consistent 12-hour use. The purpose of restoration is to restore the penis to a more natural state, not to enlarge the shaft or cause additional problems. Any undesirable scrotal and shaft tension usually is not significant enough to cause lasting problems, but the undesirable effects can be discouraging and limit restoration progress.

Work & Activity Limits
Each device and method is limited to a suitable range of activity. Watching television at home or doing work at a desk leaves open the option of more complex devices. Medium levels of activity, such as taking long walks, can cause some devices to be unreliable and fall off, or they can be very uncomfortable. Heavy activity, such as climbing ladders and heavy lifting, are very demanding and require substantial safety concerns. Night-time use requires allowance for nocturnal erections, which can be painful if the device does not allow them. Also, blood circulation is very important, since you will not be conscious of circulatory problems while asleep.

Ease of Use
These categories are concerned with daily activities when you need to do other things besides restore. A common concern is that restoration will be a lot of work and take years of time. Other than urination and sexual activity, the penis is not being used most of the time anyway. Restoration is easier when methods are chosen to accommodate daily living so that progress can be made without continuous effort or difficulty.

Cost
Although some devices are expensive, they do add convenience. It is important to try to save money when possible, but consider that some people spend tens of thousands on a vehicle that is way beyond what they really need to travel. Spending a few hundred on restoration is not a bad deal, as long as there is some benefit in it for you. I have also noted in the chart whether a device requires additional costs for tape and/or an elastic strap.