Hydrocele Surgery (Hydrocelectomy)

A hydrocele is a collection of fluid surrounding the testicle within the scrotum. It often causes gradual, painless swelling.

Hydrocelectomy is surgery to drain a hydrocele and repair or remove part of its surrounding fluid sac. The aim is to reduce swelling and the likelihood of fluid returning.

No. Small, uncomplicated hydroceles that are not causing problems can often be observed. Surgery is commonly considered when swelling becomes large, uncomfortable or troublesome.

Some hydroceles may reduce in size or resolve, especially when associated with a temporary condition. However, persistent adult hydroceles frequently remain unless treated. Observation can still be appropriate if symptoms are minimal.

Yes, but the fluid frequently returns because the sac is not definitively treated. Aspiration also carries bleeding and infection risks. It is generally not the preferred long-term solution for a patient suitable for surgery.

A hydrocele itself is not a form of cancer. However, it may occasionally occur alongside another testicular condition. Ultrasound can help assess the testicle, particularly when it cannot be examined clearly.

Ultrasound is commonly used when the testicle cannot be felt clearly, the diagnosis is uncertain or another abnormality is suspected. Your urologist will decide what imaging is appropriate.

Anaesthesia is provided during surgery. Some discomfort, bruising and swelling are expected afterwards. Suitable pain relief and supportive underwear can help during recovery.

Hydrocelectomy is commonly performed under general anaesthesia, although spinal, regional or local techniques may be appropriate in some cases. Your anaesthetic plan will be discussed before surgery.

An uncomplicated procedure often takes around 30–60 minutes. Larger hydroceles or more complex surgery may take longer. Anaesthesia and recovery time are additional.

No. Standard hydrocelectomy is intended to preserve the testicle and treat the fluid sac around it. Removal of the testicle is not part of a routine hydrocelectomy.

Yes. Hydroceles can occur on one or both sides of the scrotum. If both sides require treatment, your surgeon will discuss the appropriate plan.

Not always. Some patients receive a temporary scrotal drain to allow blood or fluid to escape during early healing. If one is used, your team will explain when it will be removed.

Most hydrocelectomies are performed as day surgery. Some patients may need an overnight hospital stay due to medical or surgical circumstances.

Swelling commonly occurs because the tissues have been operated on. Fluid may also temporarily collect within the healing space. Swelling can take weeks or months to settle and does not always mean recurrence.

Significant improvement often occurs over the first few weeks, but residual swelling or thickening may persist for months. Your treating team should review swelling that is increasing, painful or not improving as expected.

Yes. Hydrocele recurrence is possible despite surgery, although it is relatively uncommon. Persistent or recurrent swelling may need examination and sometimes ultrasound to establish the cause.

Surgery aims to reduce the excess fluid and resulting swelling. However, scar tissue, postoperative thickening or residual changes may mean the scrotum does not feel or look exactly as it did previously.

Close-fitting supportive underwear or a dedicated scrotal support can reduce movement and discomfort. Your surgical team will advise how long to wear it, often for at least the early recovery period.

Showering is often allowed after 24–48 hours, but this depends on the dressing, wound closure and your surgeon's instructions. Avoid soaking the wound until healing permits it.

Many patients allow approximately one to two weeks for recovery. Some can return to sedentary work earlier, while those doing heavy physical work may need additional time.

Gentle walking may be resumed as comfort allows. Heavy lifting, cycling, running and strenuous exercise are commonly restricted for several weeks, sometimes around four weeks or longer. Follow your surgeon's specific advice.

Sexual activity is often avoided for approximately two to three weeks or longer, depending on healing and comfort. Resume only when the wound has adequately healed and your surgeon has permitted it.

Hydrocelectomy is generally intended to preserve testicular and reproductive function. However, rare injury to the epididymis, blood vessels or nearby structures may affect fertility. Discuss existing fertility concerns before surgery.

An uncomplicated hydrocelectomy does not normally affect testosterone production or erectile function. The operation treats the tissue surrounding the testicle. Rare complications involving the testicle could have additional effects.

A hydrocele is fluid around the testicle. A spermatocele is a cyst arising from the epididymis, usually near the top of the testicle. Ultrasound helps distinguish these conditions.

A hydrocele is a fluid collection around the testicle. An inguinal hernia involves tissue, fat or bowel protruding through a weakness in the groin. A hernia may require a different surgical approach.

Often, yes. Adult hydrocelectomy commonly treats the fluid sac through a scrotal incision. In children, a hydrocele may be caused by a persistent connection to the abdomen, requiring a different approach through the groin.

Bring your GP referral, medication list, scrotal ultrasound report if available, previous operation records and details of any testicular or fertility concerns.