Penile cancer is a rare malignancy in the Western world, but in Asia, Africa, and South Africa the incidence is much higher. Risk factors, including phimosis, human papillomavirus (HPV), smoking, chronic inflammatory conditions, psoralen ultraviolet photochemotherapy, genital warts, and HIV infection play a role in the pathogenesis of penile cancer. Approximately 95% of all penile tumours are squamous cell carcinomas (PSCC) and the large majority arise from the prepuce or glans. PSCC has a strong tendency for lymphatic dissemination, but cure can still be attained in patients with inguinal involvement. The most commonly used staging system is the 2009 TNM classification for penile cancer. Surgical resection has been the mainstay of treatment in penile carcinoma, including penile-preserving techniques, partial and total penectomy. The aim of surgery is minimizing loss of anatomy and function, without jeopardizing oncological results.