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UpgradeA hydrocele repair is an operation to correct and remove fluid collection around the testicle when the fluid collection itself is causing you symptoms
A hydrocele is a collection of fluid around the testicle. It is usually a benign (non-cancerous) condition caused by either over-production or under-drainage of fluid from the sac (bag) that contains the testicle.
A hydrocele repair is an operation to correct and remove this fluid collection when the fluid collection itself is causing you symptoms (such as discomfort or problems because of its size).
The aim is to relieve you of the problems the fluid collection is causing you (such as discomfort or problems relating to its size).
• No treatment at all.
• Drainage of the fluid with a needle (called ‘aspiration’).
The surgeon makes a cut in your scrotum on the side of your hydrocele to reach the fluid collection. The sac containing the fluid is opened and the fluid released. The sac is then stitched up in such a way that the fluid collection should not recur in the future. Any bleeding that may have occurred is then controlled and the skin cut is closed with dissolving stitches. Additional local anaesthetic is then injected around the wound and a supportive dressing applied. If you have had a general anaesthetic you must not drive yourself, cycle or use public transport for 24 hours following your operation.
One Health waiting times from consultation to treatment are 2 - 12 weeks on average.
You will have some soreness and swelling for a few days. Any discomfort should be controlled with simple painkillers, for example, paracetamol.
A nurse will go through the discharge instructions with you and tell you about the care you need at home. Please ask if you are unsure of any of the instructions.
Following a general anaesthetic, you will be able to go home with an adult who can look after you when it is felt you are ready to. Your surgeon will discuss your operation with you before you go home.
Please keep your stitches dry for the first 24 hours following your operation, and then bath or shower every day. Your stitches will dissolve in 10 to 30 days.
For the first day following your operation you should rest as much as possible. Usually, it will take between 10 and 14 days for you to recover from your operation. During this period, you should avoid strenuous activity.
When it does not cause you any discomfort. It would be unusual for this to be within the first week after the operation.
You will be able to drive again when your wound is comfortable. You must be able to perform an emergency stop comfortably before you are safe to drive on the roads.
Please ask if there is anything you do not fully understand about your treatment or if there is anything you are uncertain about
We have over 40 clinics across the UK with 100+ expert consultants, providing a wide range of treatments to help you get better.
One Health waiting times from consultation to treatment are 2 - 12 weeks on average.
