Hydrocelectomy is surgery for a collection of fluid in the sac surrounding the testicle, which causes scrotal swelling, heaviness or discomfort. Its aim is to drain the fluid and treat the sac that produces it so that it is less likely to return.
It is usually performed under general or spinal anaesthesia, occasionally local, through a small incision in the scrotum or lower groin. The fluid is drained, then part of the sac is removed or the sac is turned inside out and stitched behind the testicle; a temporary drain may be placed.
The operation generally takes under an hour and most men go home the same day or after one night. A scrotal support is worn and heavy lifting and strenuous activity are avoided for a few weeks. The final result is usually clear once swelling resolves, which can take weeks to a few months.
The final cost is set after a medical consultant reviews your case and photos.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zülfü Sertkaya is an Istanbul urologist who focuses on andrology. He graduated from Gazi University Faculty of Medicine in 2008, completed his urology residency at Haydarpaşa Numune Training and Research Hospital in 2014, and holds the FEBU title (2017). He worked at state, university and private hospitals, including Memorial Diyarbakır and Başakşehir Çam and Sakura City Hospital. Since 2022 he has run his own clinic in Zeytinburnu, focusing on penile prosthesis, Peyronie's disease, premature ejaculation and male infertility.
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It removes swelling, heaviness and discomfort, makes movement and clothing more comfortable, and is more durable than draining the fluid alone.
Adults whose hydrocele is growing, painful, embarrassing or limiting activity, after a urologist confirms the diagnosis by examination and ultrasound and rules out other causes.
Blood tests, an ultrasound and fasting before anaesthesia are needed. Never stop any medicine on your own, such as blood thinners; your doctor decides.
The surgeon makes a small incision, delivers the testicle with its sac, drains the fluid, removes or everts and secures the excess sac, and usually closes with dissolvable stitches.
There is no pain during surgery thanks to anaesthesia; afterwards pain is usually manageable with painkillers, cold packs and a scrotal support.
Temporary swelling and bruising are expected. Many return to desk work within days and postpone sport, heavy lifting and intercourse for a few weeks as advised.
The size reduces gradually as swelling settles; the result is permanent for most men, with a small chance of recurrence.
Possible issues include a blood collection, infection, prolonged swelling, recurrence and, rarely, injury to the epididymis or vas deferens. No result can be guaranteed; your doctor explains your individual risk.
It usually does not affect fertility or sexual function, but men planning children should tell their doctor, because injury to the epididymis or vas is rare but possible.
Staying about five days to a week until the follow-up wound check is usually advised before flying; your doctor confirms the right time.
