Follow-Ups to Answer from Expert Arthur Goldstein, M.D.

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BIGRING wrote at 2006-08-28 16:26:46
After enduring with a testicle the size of an orange and fluid induced swelling into my upper groin I opted for the surgery. in and out in one morning, straight home to ice packs and feet up for the next three days. The worst part was the severe bruising of my scrotum which lasted a full week. I'm now three weeks post-op and feeling great. Some stitches yet to disolve, then back on the bike, and out for a run.  

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Joe wrote at 2008-03-02 20:09:13
I recently had the hydrocele surgery. They put about a four inch incision right above and slightly to the left of your penis. They then follow a space right to your testicles, grab the affected testicle pull it up, work on it then put it back in the scrotum. They then stitch the testicle to the bottom of the scrotum. it is very painful. I repeat very painful. it has been 4 days since my surgery and i am still not walking normal, haven't even tried running. the doctor says I should be able to do all the stuff I could do before the surgery in about a month.

P.S aspirating almost always returns and is normally used for people who are not healthy enough for surgery.

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George wrote at 2009-09-12 16:10:53
I had a hydrocele (right side) operation on friday.  It's now saturday, 8 days since surgery.  I've been taking acetaminophen for pain and an antibacterial pill for infection-cephalexin.  I'm a healthy 60 yr old with a previous hernia on my right side.  That operation was done many years ago and was successful. Still having pain when I sit down. When sitting up on the bed I put a pillow under my knees which reduces the pain significantly.  When sitting in a chair it feels like sitting on a balloon, unfortunately that balloon is me, and very uncomfortable.  I hope to return to work after 2 weeks of rest. I hope this info can help you.

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Leslie Buckinghamshire UK wrote at 2010-01-25 12:47:37
I had surgery 4 days ago. Pain not too bad although bruising was a shock and swelling is uncomfortable. I was in surgery 3/4 hour and then rested for 3 hours before being told I could dress in preparation to go home. Unfortunately nurse had not noticed in notes that I had had local "block" anaesthetic in my left thigh (for pain relief). When I stood up my left leg gave way and I fell which was a shock and resulted in me staying in for another 3 hours till I could walk. I am back working from home but feel lethargic. Hope it works and bruising soon goes. Better than having two oranges hanging between leg.  

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GregW wrote at 2010-02-06 20:03:46
I had the hydrocelectomy done on my left testicle, with a resulting 4 inch incision just left of the penis and around the scrotum to the left. This is quite debilitating, however, it's been 5 days since the surgery and each day is getting better. I found you MUST keep ice on it daily, and the tendency is to over-do your activity level. Take is slow the first week or 10 days. There is still quite a bit of swelling and the left testicle area feels to be about as large as before, but I attribute it to the swelling. I guess they took about 1/2 liter of fluid off that side, so hopefully, this will take care of the problem. Keep pillows handy to keep between the legs, as it will keep things from getting pressure when sleeping.  

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helmur wrote at 2010-02-07 03:53:01
Ray Murray Adelaide Australia



I had right hydrocele reduction surgery on the 5th Jan 2010. Mainly as a result of a hernia operation a few years back. I am 62, four weeks later I am still very swollen although not in as much severe pain as before, rather just discomfort. The surgeon has said it could be a month or more still until the swelling goes away. Worst case scenario? He said they could remove the testicle as a last resort. Not altogether a very good result for me so far.

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helmu53 wrote at 2010-03-03 09:37:10
Ok It's now 8 weeks since my surgery and I am in worse pain and discomfort than before the operation. The original surgeon said after my second post op visit to come back in two months. I could not stand the pain and discomfort so went to the A&E of my local hospital two weeks ago, they took an ultrasound and  referred me to the urology clinic. I waited 2 weeks for an appointment but still have not heard. I am now going to see another surgeon for a second opinion as I am in trouble and pain. The original surgeon seems somewhat disinterested in my dilemna. I wish I had left it alone to be frank..  More to follow after my second opinion.

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Bracken wrote at 2010-03-19 11:32:54
I had a hydrocele operation quite a few years ago. I was not really given the option of 'leaving it alone' and I thought well OK it will cure the size problem caused by the build up of fluid. Well the fluid came back and from time to time its quite uncomfortable. Also there is a large soft lump near the top of the testicle. I have had it checked several times and there is no cancer (apparently unlikely at my age over 50). I had another consultation and was advised another op would be required but this time instead of the testicle being loose it would be 'fixed in position so the fluid had nowhere to go'. I decided that after the first op I would rather leave it as I was left worse off by the first op (the unsightly lump and discomfort which I did not have before + its full of fluid again) and I didn't want to be more of a freak with a rigid testicle! Frankly I wish I hadn't bothered with the first op and I wouldn't advise it unless the testicle is getting grossly large. I think it tends to reach a point of stability in size.

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helmur53 wrote at 2010-04-22 10:12:13
Ok a further update which I hope will be helpful to others. Following 2 post op visits to the surgeon who did the operation and a second opinion from another I am happier to report that after nearly four months I at last have two testes approx the same size. Still a bit of soreness and mild discomfort but liveable. In total 4 months recovery time which is of course not the norm' however feeling good now.

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larryr wrote at 2010-04-28 14:45:32
Had right side hydrocele surgery on 4/22 (general anesthesia). Only took pain medicine rest of that day and none since. Amazed at how well I felt right away and actually went back to office job on the Monday after surgery. Have been faithful in icing and wearing supporter and no strenuous activity (trying golf this weekend). Based on all the horror reviews I read pre-surgery I am thankful for how well it has gone.

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rob50152 wrote at 2010-08-23 18:30:25
I had both sides with my left side about the size of a baseball and the other a little bit smaller. I was cut on 5/Aug/10 the way he went in was at the bottom of my scrotum.after surgery they tried to make me go pee i tried for a couple hours with no luck so they put a catheter in me. That stayed in for 3 days very painful. A week later i ran out of pain med so called in for a couple days more,they changed it on me and 3 days later I'm laying in the Hospital from my bowels shutting down (more pain).after 4 days there and close to 3 weeks after surgery my left side is still huge and very uncomfortable. I'm still very lethargic and sore I've had a post op check up and the surgeon told me he will probably have to stick a needle in my left side and draw the fluid out if it din't go down by next visit.

I'm not downing the surgery it needed to be done I'm just telling what happened to me. I'm 50 very healthy and active, i din't exercise and run i work is to physical for that. anyway i will give you a update later on the left side.

I hope this helps who ever is thinking about having this done. oh yea the right one feels fine

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Vimal wrote at 2010-09-26 14:08:13
I had my hydrocele operation done on 18th Sep 2010. First 2-3 days were very painfull, thus i had taken full bed rest. But after 3 days, things seems to be coming back to normal. Yes I have to wear a scottal support. My Doc had advised to get stitches removed on next 5 days. Guys do not worry..go for the operation it is better to get it permanent cure instead of bearing the hydrocele.  

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ilikepurple wrote at 2010-11-14 20:07:12
Had my Op under general anesthesia, using a general surgeon on 11/11/2010.  Only slight pain afterward (2 on 10 scale).  Took 1 prescription pain pill every 4 hrs. for 24 hrs. as a precaution; then took 2 Tylenol as needed for 24 hrs.  Day after surgery-kept my feet up (recliner), idle and slept frequently.  I used NO ice and was not instructed to use ice.  Wore scrotal support for 48 hrs.  Showered after 48 hrs.  I change gauze every few hrs. as needed and used Triple D ointment after showering and gently drying with hair dryer.  Went shopping for a few hours and drove my car after 48 hrs.  It’s been far, far worse reading some of the comments on this site than the actual experience.

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jlugz wrote at 2010-11-23 12:28:40
I have gathered mixed feelings reading this articles. I am scheduled for op on 27/11/2010 and seemingly tough times await me.i am impressed by ilikepurple, i just hope i will have it better than him. i promise to share my experience right here!!

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dek139 wrote at 2010-11-26 01:14:52
jlugz

best of luck,

Please let me know how it goes.

I am scheduled for 12/17/2010.

I hope we both get a easy recovery

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Awc402 wrote at 2010-12-13 18:06:26
I had my right hydrocelectomy on December 7, 2010. I was in surgery for one (1) hour but my total length of time in the hospital was around three (3) hours. The staff at Midstate Medical were great!  I used prescription drugs for three (3) days along with a scrotum support. I was on my feet within 48 hours experiencing only minor discomfort.  The follow up appointment is scheduled for tomorrow afternoon. Wish me luck.   My right testicle is still pretty swollen but otherwise I am on the mend...  If you need the surgery and you are confident in the surgeon, make it happen!   It is far better than walking around with a fluid-filled sac.

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BK wrote at 2010-12-24 16:02:14
I don't know who your surgeons are or if you are men enough I had the same surgery and the doctor did stitch the right testicle to the scrotal sac and he did a great job, I’m now 6 days after my surgery walking normal with a weird feeling in my right testicle but I didn't feel any pain after the surgery also I didn't take any pain killer till today, I was concerned about "stitching the tactical to the scrotal sac issue" but from your talk people I guess I’m lucky, I did the operation in Jordan Hospital in Jordan and I feel great. I hope to ride my bike after some weeks from know.

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rab wrote at 2010-12-29 07:47:43
I just had my hydrocele removal surgery the 22nd of this month, and im still in a lot of pain. they made a 4 inch cut on the bottom of the scrotum and the testicle still feels huge. and it feels like its being pulled on from above in my groin. maybe im not resting enough even though i sleep all day. and maybe am active a few hours of the day. but im prob on an 8 or 9 on the 10 point pain scale at times. did anyone else feel this way? my post op is tomorrow. any advice? im an active 19 year old.

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TG wrote at 2011-01-24 05:57:35
I had hydrocele surgery on January 4th on my left testicle. The surgeon made a small, probably three inch incision, at the top of the scrotum. It took about a week for the pain to get manageable without the medication I was prescribed. I was walking normally without much discomfort the week following that. Now, three weeks later, I am at 95 percent recovery. The stitches have yet to fully dissolve but other than that, I'm doing real good. My best advice to anyone waiting to go through this procedure is to listen to your doctor and follow his/her recovery plan.It's worth it.

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TA wrote at 2011-02-16 00:39:29
I had surgery on my right testicle on the 9th of Feb. It is now Feb 15, 6 days later and the healing is roughly 65% there. Pain is minimal, although there are some spots that still hurt. For instance, there is a pocket on the top right testicle that really hurts and remains swollen. I didn't use ice at all, my doctor for some reason recommended I didn't. The surgery has left a major incision on the testicle that is about 4 inches, but the healing has been noticable the past two days. Its really not that bad, but you have to understand you are going to need at least 2 weeks to get back to normal. Like I stayed in bed for the first 3-4 days. Now I try to stay off my feet as much as possible. In the end...a rough month is better than carrying a dumbell in your pants.  

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EDZ 1 wrote at 2011-02-20 22:48:40
I HAD MY SURGERY DONE ON VALENTINES DAY. LEFT TESTICLE. IT WAS ABOUT THE SIZE OF A TANGERINE. SURGERY WAS SCHEDULED @ 3PM AND I WAS DONE BEFORE 4PM. MY WIFE PICKED ME UP @ 5:30PM. I HAVE STITCHES ABOUT 3 IN. LONG NEXT TO MY PENIS. I WENT BACK TO WORK ON 2/17/11 WITH A LITTLE PAIN, ALTHOUGH I SIT ON MY BUTT ALLDAY, I STILL FEEL PAIN AROUND THE AREA OF SURGERY BUT NOTHING MAJOR. BECAUSE THEY HAD TO SHAVE MY PUBICS, IT ITCHES AND IS VERY IRRITATING WHERE YOU WANT TO ALWAYS SCRATCH AROUND THE STITCHING AREA. MY TESTICLES HAVEN'T SURNK YET. IT IS STILL THE SAME SIZE AS BEFORE THE SURGERY. BUT ACCORDING TO MY DR., SHE SAID IT IS STILL SWOLLEN. IT WILL TAKE ABOUT 6 WEEKS BEFORE IT WILL GET BACK TO NORMAL. I AM GLAD I HAD THIS PROCEDURE DONE. WHILE YOUR TESTICLE GROWS IT GETS VERY IRRITATING AND UNCOMFORTABLE. TOOK ME ABOUT A YEAR AND A HALF TO FINALLY GET THIS THING DONE. DON'T BE AFRAID MEN, WE HAVE TO MAN-UP.......GET THIS PROCEDURE DONE!!!!!!!!

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RKJ4 wrote at 2011-03-02 22:04:21
Had the proceedure done on Feb 24th.  Will be a week tomorrow.  Went back to work yesterday and got through today without pain meds.  I won't do that again! This most definatly is healing well and everything seems ok, but the left teste is much larger than before and it was organge sized then!IT is still quite painful, although lessening everyday. This seems to be a slower healing process than is advertised, but the proceedure itself was relatively easy and not terribly painful overall.  I feel like I would have liked a whole week at least before doing much. I  

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Kenny L wrote at 2011-03-19 03:05:04
Im a 20 year old male. Had an extremely large hydrocele on my left testicle and a moderate one on right. Had surgery on the 15th for the one on the left and it went fairly well. I dont remember a thing, last thing i do remember is laying on the surgery table then bam was in recovery room. Had plenty of meds through the IVs to help me through it, though after the IV was removed i grew very ill and began throwing up. It has been a few days and it hurts occasionally. They said my right one would go down by itself, if it doesnt i wont mind and wont be going back to surgery. Go back on the the first of April for a check up. Not bad at all, i advise people to have the surgery and not just the aspiration.

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Bob wrote at 2011-03-23 18:25:05
I had it done Friday. Mine was the size of an orange   Took Monday off and went back to work Tuesday.   Real easy surery.   Took pain pills Friday through Sunday even though I didn't need them.  But it kept me sleeping.   Kept ice on everything.  The hardest part was the stint he left in.  Once that was removed on Monday, I was much more comforable. Been putting this off for years.   Don't know why now.   One piece of advice is at the hospital they give you a supporter.  Ask for a spare.   My original got some blood on it.  I figure I will need to wear this for a couple weeks.  Nice to have a spare while the other is being washed.

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Ted Eastman wrote at 2011-04-11 02:01:52
Ted E. I had my surgery 5 days ago.I can't believe the discomfort so many have professed.    I'm 76 yrs. old. Very little discomfort, no pain pills and actually forgot that they said I should use ice. Not quite 100% but I attribute that to the fact that I have been very active.  My urologist is one of the best and that is extremely important.  

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Bob Miller wrote at 2011-05-02 11:03:55
I want to thank the guys for these posts. It gives those of us facing this ordeal some sense of what to expect. A urologist will be doing my hydrocele, and I talked him into doing a TURP at the same time. He said he'd never done both together, but if I thought I could handle the pain, he'd do it. I really believe my hernia operation two years earlier is connected to this problem, but no one agrees with me. In every case I've read about, the hydrocele has been on the same side as the hernia operation.

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Randy wrote at 2011-05-05 21:44:12
Had a hydrocelectomy on April 11, 2011 on my left testicle. 51 years old and active. Never heard of such a condition before but a slight glancing hit to the left testicle was all it took to cause the problem. Once I realized this was going to keep getting bigger I had to wait more than a month before I could get the surgery due to a change of insurance.  By the time of the surgery my scrotum was roughly the size of a large orange, maybe even approaching grapefruit size. It didn't hurt but it sure was uncomfortable to carry around and I was actually very eager for the surgery.

General anesthesia in a urology clinic outpatient. Surgery was about 45 minutes and I was home with ice and Oxycodone about 2 hours after the start of the surgery.

I didn't take but a few of the pills, maybe 3 all together for the first 3 days and the pain was more from bruising than from the incision. Ice and daytime TV for the first 4 days; boring but necessary. The scar looked real hideous at first but now after 3 1/2 weeks it is barely noticeable. I had dissolvable sutures and those hurt more than any other aspect of this ordeal when they started to dissolve and would get caught in underwear and pull the sensitive scar. Once the last stitch fell out it was a major improvement.

Still a bit of swelling but it's now about the size of a kiwi which is a huge improvement. I'm told the slight swelling could last for 6 to 8 weeks but then it should reduce to the normal size. This past few days I resumed light exercise but until the swelling is entirely gone it is still slightly sensitive but getting better each day.

I was lucky and had none of the horror stories that I read on this page. I followed the doctors advise and took it easy, no weekend warrior stuff and the surgeon was very pleased with the progress.

If you need it, get it done. Find a good urologist that has experience. My surgeon has done thousands of these over his nearly 40 years of practice so for HIM it was just another day at the office. Fine by me.

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Paul V Sore wrote at 2011-05-09 05:00:14
Had hydrocele surgery 6 days ago. The result is the most painful experience in my 62 years and would not recommend it. I have had the pain medication changed and still not very affective. prescribed for every 4 hours and take meds every 3 hours. Can not walk, sit or stand without being in extreme pain and have been at rest with no relief in site. The worst of the pain is in the extreme lower left of my torso and can not function  

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Edwin T. wrote at 2011-05-18 04:18:04
I had a hydrocelectomy on my right testicle on Fri 13th, last case of the evening. Surgery began at 6:30 pm and I was out of recovery by 9 pm. General anesthesia, same day surgery, excellent urological surgeon. Next day recovery was slow due to late previous day surgery and lingering after effects of anesthesia. Antibiotic prescribed was Ciprofloxacin HCL 500 mg 1, 2x/day. I did not react well to this antibiotic, stopped at day two and notified the Dr. It caused some stomach pain, increased hand tremors and edginess. Antibiotic was changed to Cephalexin, 500 mg, 1, 4x/day. Results from antibiotic now are much better. I am now ending day 4 of recovery, have had absolutely no pain and used no pain meds. There is some discomfort, primarily from drying/ healing of the scrotum and the stitches. But nothing a few minor adjustments cannot solve. I showered on day 2, no problem. I drove car on day3 all o.k. I'm taking it easy around the house and resting, with a occasional nap. Also walking across a parking lot a few times. I feel fortunate to be doing this well so far, attributing this to my highly experienced urologist, and, at 75 being in good physical condition. I swim .75 miles 2x/week and one mile once per week.  Also do yoga, recumbent bike and upper body light weights and exercises on alternate days. Hope all continues to go well. Thank you for all your postings.

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Cityhunter346 wrote at 2011-05-21 14:48:16
Had my hydrocelectomy on 5/10/11. My hydrocele was on the left side and the size of a large lemon. Was in and out of the hospital in 5 hours or so. The precedure went well. It was painful, but nothing compared to a few other surgeries I have had. I took 7 days off from work and stayed in bed for most of the time. Rotated ice packs on and off every hour or so. I think the constant icing really helped the first week. 11 days later I am off pain meds, and starting to resume my normal activities. My doctor told me no heaving lifting or strenuous activities for another two weeks. The incision is healing, but it is still oozing a bit. I'm still wearing a jock and keeping gauze in it. My testicle is swollen very little...it is considerably smaller than it was pre-op. I'm very glad I had the procedure. I am 39 and in good health...for those of you considering it...DO IT!!!  

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Karl from Ft. Worth, TX wrote at 2011-05-23 02:28:26
I'm 44 and had the surgery on Wed, May 18th.  Like most of you, I had a hydrocele (on my left testicle).  Surgery was about 45 minutes, and out-patient.  It is now Sunday May 22 and for the most part don't need pain meds but take one before bed because I sleep so much better.



Still some discomfort and swelling about like what most of you reported.  In lieu of the scrotal support, I wear briefs, ok'd by my doc.



I'm walking somewhat normal, maybe a little limp due to the surgery.



I was not told to put ice on it, either.  I do have an odd sensation where my left leg meets my torso.  It's like a dull ache mixed with a cramp, but it's not a cramp.  I don't feel it all the time, either, so I'm guessing it's just a part of the surgery.



I have a post op appt in one month to check it out.  So, I'm assuming to give it a month of healing time before I complain about anything. LOL!



Drugs given were Hydrocodone (Vicodin) for pain and Cephalexin (Keflex) antibiotic.



The reports given by you all are great, spot-on and well written.  I wish I'd have seen these before my surgery.  

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Karl from Ft. Worth, TX wrote at 2011-05-25 20:45:13
I mentioned that I was wearing only briefs.  I went back to wearing the scrotal supporter and it was much more comfortable.  Please, if you're having the surgery, disregard about wearing just the briefs.  But definitely pick up another couple of those supporters because one does not cut it!

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Karl from Ft. Worth, TX wrote at 2011-05-27 12:52:04
One more tip about the supporter.  If you wear briefs or boxers, try wearing it outside the underwear.  That way, it doesn't get funky so quickly, yet still supports.

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Karl from Ft. Worth, TX wrote at 2011-05-29 15:08:19
Well, it's been 11 days since my surgery and I'm feeling pretty much back to normal.



I can walk normally and I don't have to wear that supporter anymore.  I worked out at the gym two days ago but upper body.  No problems.



My testicle is still sensitive though.  I can't graze it without discomfort.  But walking, sitting, sleeping is pretty much back to normal.



If you have lap pets, beware!!!  Put a pillow on your lap when sitting or else experience excruciating pain if your beloved pet jumps up and lands in your lap!

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Dsmit wrote at 2011-06-20 17:33:57
6-19-11.....six days since surgery. 65 years old and doing fair. Only in pain when I walk. Testicle is hard and scrotum is nearly black on opposite side of affected testicle.

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sbe wrote at 2011-06-21 22:35:29
Had suregery on my right Hydrocele, it was about 4 days ago. Testicle is swallen almost as big as it used to be. i have been active right after surgery do not recomend that. WHy? i am in more pain now that i was in after surgery. I take my meds when i feel pain and before bed gives you a very good sleep. I recomend taking a week off everything if you can and just relaxing with your feet up and an ice pack on the package. I have a folow up in a month. i will be making more posts before then. If you were diagnosed with hydrocele the operation is not bad. The only thing is that the swelling is big and annoing, but it should go down after a week or so.

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Ken wrote at 2011-06-24 17:10:47
Just had surgery on 2011-6-20. Uneventful with no pain and minor discomfort afterwards. This was about a three hour outpatient procedure( 45 minutes for the surgery followed by two hours or so in the recovery room) and I was home afterwards. Three days later my drain was removed, no problem or discomfort with that. Swelling remains problematic as the scrotal area is about 50 percent larger than before the procedure but no pain , just uncomfortable. I took one vicadin every 12 hours as a precaution for three days then stopped. If you take this pain med be sure to also take a stool softener as it will constipate you as it did me. It took four days for my first BM. You should ask the hospital to provide an extra scrotal support as your first will need to be cleaned after a few hours and you'll have a back-up to wear while it is being washed.

    I gleaned a lot of information from the experiences of the persons who posted on this site, both good and bad, and thank everyone for sharing their thoughts. My hydrocele was the size of a medium-large idaho potato and about the same shape lengthwise. I am glad it is done and will repost after my follow up visit in two weeks. If you need this surgery plan on a week to ten days off with anything less than full activity. It is not that bad a procedure with the payoff being not having a balloon between your legs after it heals. Get a good surgeon, preferably a urologist, and get it done.

   This was my first surgery,I am 53 and somewhat overweight so don't let those factors stop you. Hope this info helps somebody.

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OwMyBalls wrote at 2011-07-02 07:48:34
I'm an active 25 year old, who currently misses working out.  I had my hydrocelectomy on 27-Jun-11 because the Air Force made me, not because I wanted or needed to.  I had both sides done, with the right being the size of a large kiwi and the left the size of a large egg.  I went under with general anesth. and woke up in recovery, no issues.  My doc made two, two inch incisions horizontally on the rear of my scrotum at the bottom, and left a surgical tube drain in there for both sides.  Three days later a nurse took it out for me.  



The first 3 days I spent probably a total of 40 minutes out of my bed cause it hurt so bad, and I live alone.  Now, 5 days later I feel much better (and finally wore boxers and jeans without gauze!)  I agree with one of the previous posts that you should ask your doc/med provider for extra gauze and gauze-briefs because, believe me, the first pair will get VERY messy.  I changed my gauze a lot, as with the drain tubes (which are your friends) I soaked them constantly.  The briefs will wash fine, just use cold water and dry them without heat.  



I was prescribed percoset for the pain, 4hrs between pills.  I still take them, but mostly because it's fun.  



The pain has subsided substantially, now it's mostly (as mentioned in earlier posts) the incision areas because of the stitches.  I wasn't given any antibiotics and I'm showing no signs of infection.  Remember, if it itches that's good -- it means you're healing.



I thought this was a difficult ordeal but it's also my first real surgery and I could just be a wuss.  My scrotum/testicles feel and look the same size as before, but I assume that after 6 weeks - like everyone else said - this too will pass.



Good luck everyone!  And believe it or not, surgery has a lower chance of infection (AND recurrence) than aspiration.

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Jim wrote at 2011-07-05 23:40:59
I am 76 years old and had a hydrocele on the left side about the size of an orange.   The right testicle was beginning to enlarge.  I had a double hydrocelectomy on May 23, 2011.  The surgery lasted about a half an hour and I was in the recovery room about two hours before going home.  The operation was performed by a board certified urologist of 36 years of age.  I went home and did the icepack and the pain meds, etc. and was soon in a lot of pain on the right side only with a great deal of swelling on that side.   The left side was fine and the swelling on that side subsided. The incision was down the front and middle of my scrotum.  On June 3 I had my local doctor look at it because of the swelling and pain.   He said it was not infected, but the swelling was pulling apart the external incision.  I wore the jockstrap over my cotton briefs to prevent chafing, and cut a female bladder control pad in half to insert inside the shorts to soak up the secretions.  A Kotex would work just as well, as it has a sticky adhesive on one side that holds it in place on your shorts.  Worked well!  One could also wear a pair of silk women's panties inside the briefs and jockstrap for comfort.  On June 6 I went to our local emergency room (my urologist is two hours away) and they did an ultrasound and found fluid on that side.  They thought it was either a blood clot or a failed procedure on that side and prescribed Cephalexin.  They sent a copy of the findings to my urologist.  On June 8 I was still in a lot of pain and went back to see my urologist.  He looked at it and said he did not know what was causing the pain and swelling, (what kind of an answer is that?) and that if it got worse I should contact him.   If it got better I should contact him and he had me make an appt. for June 23. He never mentioned the ultrasound nor requested another one.  Didn't seem to care that I was in excruciating pain. On June 17 my wife drove me two hours to the emergency room in the town where my urologist practices because he was on vacation.  I saw the emergency room doctor and he ordered another ultrasound.  He called an associate of my urologist, and they determined that I had epididymitis, and changed my med to ciprofloxacin.  Three days later the excruciating pain was gone, but the swelling was still there. I saw my urologist's associate on June 23, and he said to make an appt. with the urologist that did the surgery on August 4.  3 days after completing the antibiotic the pain is coming back and the swelling is increasing.  Now that side is the size of a large orange, where originally it was the size of an egg.  I am very disappointed in the followup by my urologist that did the surgery!  I am going back to his office on July 6 and I'd better get some help!  This has gone on too long....my whole summer is being ruined.  

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Christian wrote at 2011-07-19 11:55:19
I had my operation on the 13 of July and it was meant for a day case...BUT later that evening just lying around at home I found my left testicle was even bigger than before. Went to A and E and had to have another surgery the following day. They found I had 300ml of blood clot inside my testicle. I stayed at the hospital on bed rest until the Saturday and then returned home, it's now Tuesday and pain is still bad and swelling too, hopefully it goes down too. So a hint for anyone seeking the surgery, make sure you stay in the hospital for another night or just go home to bed immediately. Don't do any walking or making coffee! Btw I am a 16 year old lad!

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MoJoe wrote at 2011-08-01 18:36:56
I am 47 years old, and I underwent a right hydrocelectomy on 7/27/11.   



My testicle became slightly enlarged over 30 years ago, due to a direct tennis ball blow.   My hydrocele had become mild to moderate in size just prior to my surgery.  



I decided to undergo the procedure because I recently stated experiencing pain (something like a hernia) while doing simple tasks such as putting on my pants.   I am also physically active and compensating for the hydrocele was starting to cause other chronic problems.



My surgery took about an hour.  A drainage tube was installed during the procedure, and removed two days after the operation. There was very little change in the size of my testicle immediately after the surgery.



In my case, the swelling didn’t start to decrease until the drainage tube was removed.  However, in the last 3-4 days, the swelling has gone down about 50%.   After reading some postings on this site, I applied ice yesterday and that it seems to be helping.



I experienced moderate discomfort and pain for the first few days-particularly with the drainage tube.  However, the pain has been totally manageable with Vicodin.  



The result of the surgery is pretty good so far.  My doctor says that within several weeks, the swelling should be totally gone and my testicles should be perfectly symmetrical.  

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Ben wrote at 2011-08-22 01:47:04
I am 60 and had my hydrocele surgery on 08/11. I discovered it about a year ago when I went for a medical. The doctor said my scrotum was somewhat swollen and I should consult a urologist. A month later I did so and was suggested to have an operation but it was not necessary unless my discomfort became painful. I opted for the operation but living in a Medicare society it took 10 months to get the operation. By this time my scrotum had gone from barely swollen to the size of a cantaloupe. It was not painful but it was very uncomfortable. My surgery lasted 1 hour and the doctor removed 2 cups of fluid. One cup from each side. My scrotum is still quite swollen and is now the size of a deformed grapefruit. And the right testicle is quite sore to the touch. Ten days later I am still taking painkillers to fall asleep but I do see a slight improvement each day. Hope I am back to normal soon.

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David wrote at 2011-09-06 17:06:40
I had my surgery on sept 1st,2011.A hydro cell on the left side.It's now 5 day's out post op,I am having pain and I had troublr getting my first bowel movement,so doctor told me to take magnesium citrate,I did and next day it worked but it was Black and watery,Doctor said he wasn't concerned about that.I'me 68 and this has been quite an ordeal,I'me keeping ice packs on the area constantly,doctor said to expect swelling to even be larger than before,for about two week's,he also said it would be four week's before feeling worth a flip.I feel for all who have had this procedure done,it's no piece of cake.Keep those ice pack's on the area very very important,to reduce swelling.good luck to all pre op patient's

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Kevin wrote at 2011-09-15 12:38:52
I am 67 years old and am very active. I had a hydocele repaired on my left testicle and a spermatocele removed from my right side in the same procedure on 31 August 2011. The hydrocele was the size of a large orange. I must conclude from reading other posts that I was fortunate and had a very skillful surgeon. The entire operation took less than 40 minutes. I woke up in the recovery room with no pain or discomfort. The only painkiller they used was ibuprofen. I took vicodin the first day after surgery and ibuprofen for 3 more days. I was walking comfortably after 2 days and driving short distances after 3 days. I never at any point felt what I would describe as pain, but there was discomfort from sitting wrong. I wore a professional athletic supporter and this helped greatly. It is now 2 weeks since the surgery and am back to normal activity except for weight lifting which I will defer for another week. I put this procedure off for many years and now wish I had done it much sooner.

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Steve in Savannah wrote at 2011-09-20 04:49:28
Had the surgery 6 days ago to remove an egg sized hydrocele on the right side that was contributing a constant ache as it grew larger. Surgeon made approximately one and a half inch incision vertically down the right side of my scrotum, no drain tube needed. It took longer to get through the hospital procedural waiting than the actual surgery took, which was about 30 to 45 minutes. Recovery so far is going very well with minimal pain and discomfort. Lots of bruising which was expected. The ice pack is your friend!! As is the jock strap!! Took two pain pills, which nauseated me, so I gave them up in favor of good old fashion OTC drugs and ice packs coupled with common sense. So far it looks like I will have a slightly lumpy scar on my bag, which bothers me not at all. I've been able to do most anything I want to but am sore afterward, which tells me to back off a bit and hit the ice packs again. Don't want to push things too much as I know he did some delicate work inside stitching up the tunica.



One thing that really disturbs me; I've never heard of this or any other such conditions in my life. It has been borderline traumatic and quite disruptive to my life for many months. I'm 57, well educated, healthy, and thought I was fairly well informed as to my own health. The more I read the more it becomes apparent that this is not the case. While I cannot rightly feel cheated or mal-informed, still, I feel that much more should be done to inform men about uniquely male health issues. While we are bombarded with code pink campaigns for breast cancer awareness in women, comparatively little is mentioned of the fact that men get breast cancer too. By the way, lung cancer and heart disease kill more women (and men) than breast cancer each year. We know all about cervical cancer, hysterectomies, ovarian cancer, cycsts, pap smears, a woman's menstrual cycle, what the gynecologist does and all the various infections and afflictions common to women. Because it floods from the media every day. While we suffer data overload concerning female health the vast majority of men couldn't tell you what a hydrocele is, varicocele, epididymitis, orchitis and the like. Torsion? What's that? Testicular cancer? Cysts on your 'jewels' -Huh? While we know all about women doing breast self exams as a means to spot early problems, most men have never examined their own testicles - except as boys playing with the equipment - nor have they been told of the need to do so. We've heard of prostate cancer but not very many know the importance of early detection via PSA tests.



Ok, guys. Inform yourself because the system is not going to do it for you. No whining here, just facts. Wake up, your families need you.



One common thread I notice in the comments here is that most of the hydroceles were quite large before you had something done. I attribute the easy time I've had so far to not letting it get too big before I had it corrected, so don't delay. It's not going to go away and will be far easier on you if you get it fixed when you are younger and when it is small, and if you are in reasonable physical condition as well.



Thanks to all you who posted here, your comments have been a great help to me - more than you know.

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Sore as heck wrote at 2011-10-10 18:21:49
Had bilateral hydoceles operated on 6 weeks ago.  Have severe swelling due to hematoma that formed.  Also got severe infection at surgery center and was hospitalized for a week just 5 days after surgery.  Have an infectious disease doc now as well as the urologist.  I have a PICC line in and am tranfused daily with a strong antibiotic.  Still cant wear slacks due to swelling. Urologist says it will take another month at least before I will begin to feel comfortable. Needless to say I am furious with my treatment.

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Jay wrote at 2011-10-15 15:18:50
I had a hydrocele the size of an orange in my right testicle. Had surgery on Wednesday. It's now Saturday and I'm feeling good. Very little swelling and healing nicely. Despite the horror stories I read on here It has not been nearly as difficult to deal with. I am doing all my normal daily activities except for hitting the gym. Def get this done and over with. If you're healthy the recovery is faster than what has been posted here.  

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Graeme wrote at 2011-10-25 16:29:17
I am in my 20s and had this surgery done almost 2 weeks ago, I had had a drain put in post op for about a week. The incision (about 8 cm on the bottom of the scrotum healed up nicely, but the drainhole became infected after the removal of the drain. This lead to persistent swelling and discharge from the wound (it has now been a week since having the drain removed and it is still draining constantly). I have been put on IV antibiotics for a week followed by oral antibiotics for 4 weeks following, as well as soaking in hot water for 20 mins 2-3 times a day.



I was told by my surgeon that this is very uncommon (1-2% of patients) but can happen. After 2 days of antibiotics I am starting to feel better although have not noticed a significant drop in swelling yet, however I am hoping this will happen soon.



I am still very sore and have some pain while moving around (difficult to stand for more than a few minutes but not unbearable).



All in all this recovery has been a huge disruption in my life, although I imagine without the infection would not have been a problem.  

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Kevin wrote at 2011-11-15 01:56:34
You are all a bunch of babies, jesus christ.  I'm seventeen years old and i had this surgery done Nov 2011.  The pain is nothing compared to what it could be.  You had an incision on your ball sack.  Did you think it was going to feel like rainbows?  Get the surgery and don't listen to this nonsense.  You people make me sick.  They are just trying to scare you with there petty little stories.  Get the surgery and kick back for 5 days and you'll be golden.  It's been a week since my surgery and I have little to no pain.  Best of luck and follow the doctors orders!

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damien wrote at 2011-11-16 19:30:46
I recently had a hydrocele operation, roughly 3 and half weeks ago and i will be going for a check up with my urologist at the sixth week. The operation overall operation is mild or if anything bland. Nothing to worry about. It is advisable to get this done because it will feel like a bird-in has been lifted of. But curious to anyone whom had this operation. I just recently tried a transilumination test on my healed up testicle to see if there was any illumination. And there was a bit near the back and side of the testicle. did anyone have the same. i appreciate all the help i can get.

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Bob McBob wrote at 2011-11-20 18:16:27
I'm 30 and in good health, had a egg sized hyrocele on the left side.  Had the procedure to remove this yesterday under a local anesthetic as my surgeon gave me the option.



 The procedure involved having the anesthetic injected into the scrotum, (at least 8 different injections i counted)which was more painful than I expected.  The the surgeon cut a 3 inch incision along the natural central scar using electro surgery.



He then took the ball out, drained any liquid and did some stitching within the scrotum. The placed the ball back in and stitched it to the top of the scrotum.  As I was awake he gave me a running commentary!  This part was extremely painful (caused me to scream out in agony) and I needed to have a further 2 injections of anesthetic to numb the pain.  The op took took 55 mins in total.



Post op I can't walk much and sleeping is hard due to having to lie on my back.  I'm on anti-biotics and co-proximol pain killers which works but makes me tired and drowsy.  



If i could to do this again i would recommend it is done under a general anesthetic.  

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ken wrote at 2011-11-21 05:47:13
HAD HYDROCELE SURGERY ON 11-14-11/NEVER GET THE SPINAL ANESTESIA/U HAVE NO FEELING IN LEGS FOR 2 HOURS/I STILL HAD BAD REACTION /AND HAD NAUSIA FOR HOURS /HAD DONE AROUND 3 /DONE BY 4/STAYED OVERNIGHT UNTIL 4 NEXT DAY/MODERATE PAIN/ANTIBIOTICS FOR 10 DAYS/2 DAYS LATER I COULD WOBBLE A QUARTER MILE NO PAIN/U CANT POOP FOR DAYS/THAT FIXES ITSELF/I HAD MORE THEN THE STANDARD HYDROCELE DONE/ALSO HAD INFECTED SILICONE TAKEN OUT OF SCROTUM ONLY/STILL HAVE MY HUGE COCK/TOOK CIPRO FOR MONTHES OFF AND ON/INFECTIONN KEPT COMING BACK.I AM SO GLAD I FINALLY HAD THIS DONE/ITS NOT THAT BAD/JUST THAT NAUSIA FOR HOURS IN MY CASE/4 DAYS I FEEL GREAT

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Anthony F. wrote at 2011-11-27 17:43:02
45 year old, relatively healthy male with a large left sided hydrocele. (16 ounces of fluid removed) Waited more than a year to do the surgery because of the stigma of letting a doctor do such an invasive procedure in such a sensitive area.  Surgery done on 11-22-11.  Felt some discomfort in the first 2 or 3 days, but then the swelling increased which increased the pain a bit.  I know it will decrease, but still need the pain meds....and ICE ICE BABY. Wish I had done this procedure sooner.  It is not the calamity that I made it in my head.  If you know someone thinking about it, tell them to STAY OFF YOUTUBE. I did not listen to my own advice and it caused much angst. So far the results outweigh the risk.  

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ice man wrote at 2011-12-16 02:59:05
Was diagnosed with a hydrocele about 16 months ago. Had 4 aspirations done during that time while I saved a couple grand to cover my part of the surgery.Dr told me to plan on missing work for a week for recovery.Had a bilateral done Friday Dec 9th. My Dr felt that even though one side was definitely the offender here,for an extra 10 minutes in surgery I'll not have to worry about the good side going bad someday. Dr made cuts mid front of both sacs and installed one drain tube about an inch above the right side incision. Had the general anthesia of which I wasn't thrilled about, but a no-brainer compared to a spinal or a local. Surgery started at 8:40a.m. and I was in the car heading for home by 9:55a.m. !! Dr prescribed Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen but no antibiotics. I added ibeprofen on my own to help reduce the swelling. Had quite a bit of blood thru the tube the first day but the slowed down dramatically by the next day.Had the drain tube removed Monday afternoon. Dr preferred hitting the couch 24/7 for the week and I have done just that.Complete rest, Ice on 20minutes off 40 minutes (except sleeping) and the meds have helped keep the pain level to 1 or 2 throughout the week. Swollen and bruised but most of the pain is really just discomfort. Going back for a checkup in 2 weeks  but happy everything has gone problem free!!!

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martin wrote at 2011-12-19 19:36:33
had hydrocelectomy and spermecelectomy, general anesthesia, 6 months ago...things are back to normal size but I still have aching pain in the gonad, penis, and perineum area...my Dr. does a lot of these, and didn't push to do it..says it takes 6 months to really heal..I wonder if the pain will ever quit?..it comes and goes with no apparent reason..I used oxycodone for pain at first..now use advil and ice..don't do this unless you really need to..Dr. says recovery is harder and longer over age 50..my experience has been quite disappointing...IMO a better surgical method is needed as this one seems quite traumatic and primitive for 2011.

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DeonT wrote at 2011-12-21 21:42:39
I am 40 and fairly healthy.  I had an egg sized hydrocele on my right testicle.  My doctor recommended surgery as the best option over draining the hydrocele, so I chose to go with that and to also have a vasectomy done while they were already in there.  The surgery was performed on 12/14/11 at Duke University Ambulatory Center with general anestesia (one inch incision was cut on the top of the scrotum underneath my penis).  I was preped at 8am, the surgery began around 9am, and I was out the door by 12pm.  



Day one: Very sore and with moderate pain.  Was given two percocet tablets for pain before leaving the hospital.  Felt nausea after taking the pain meds, so opted not to get the prescription for percocet filled but instead took advil.  Nausea lasted the rest of the day and didn't eat much due to the lack of appetite from the percocet.



Day three: Still very sore, but the pain started to subside and was able to finally make a bowl movement.  Also able to drive comfortably by then.  I ended up removing the huge padding that was placed inside the support strap given to me at the hospital.  I replaced the padding with some sterile gauze pads and used neosporin on the cut from the incision.  I used ice packs for the first three days.



Day seven: Soreness is now subsiding and didn't take any advil for the past couple days.  Walked around most of the day yesterday and was a little soar afterwards.  Now able to go up and down the stairs at my normal pace.  Also now able to jog short distances.  Completely tossed the support and padding and the cut appears to be healing slightly.  There stitches are still present and the cut doesn't hurt much when touching it softly.  



My follow-up appointment is on 12/29.  I will provide another update then unless something comes up before that point.  So, for anyone trying to decide if they should get this procedure done, I say go for it as long as you have a doctor performing the surgery that you trust.  It's not that bad, just a little inconvenient.

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TesticlesSpeaking wrote at 2011-12-31 00:19:49
I had a bilateral (both sides) hydrocelectomy just two days ago, on Wednesday, December 28, 2011. The day of the surgery, I woke up in recovery and felt pretty good. A little bit drowsy due to the lingering general anesthesia, but that wore off fairly quickly. I was able to eat and drink shortly after, when I was told that I had to urinate before being able to leave the hospital, which I was able to do on my first try (and a pretty significant amount) not any more than an hour after surgery. Probably because the two pain pills they gave me were still in effect and the effects of the anesthesia were not completely gone, I felt pretty good on my way home. Standing was a bit awkward, but sitting and laying barely felt different from before the procedure. Before leaving, the nurses said that my surgeon had instructed me to wear the scrotal support for at least a week or so, as it would be necessary, and to apply ice very frequently. The nurses said that it was necessary to get lots of rest and spend more time in bed or seated, but not so much that you appear in a coma. (The pills I was prescribed -- and have not yet used since leaving -- were called Tylenol Codine. I was given these since I am not used to taking medication, I usually skip it -- I am also only 15.) I was also instructed to breathe deeply often and even give an occasional cough. I was told that I should not mess with the support nor shower until 48 hours had passed.



Today I took my first shower since Wednesday and it was not all that enjoyable. My scrotum is far from looking attractive, with the dark black stitches down the middle and a bit of bruising. I was informed to look out for bleeding; a little bit was okay, so long as it is not continuing to gush out. I had some blood when I removed my old gauze from my support, but it appeared dry, so that was good.



All in all, my recovery has been decent so far. I have not experienced much pain, but quite a bit of discomfort.



My biggest recovery complaint is that my lower scrotum has swollen significantly, almost as if the hydrocele simply moved down. I've been told that swelling will go down eventually. It is uncomfortable to the extent that I cannot walk straight, as the large lower part of the scrotum has reached the size that my legs have to be spread in order to walk. I go back to school from Christmas break in under a week. I cannot imagine going to school and not being able to walk without looking like an utter idiot.  

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Quart low wrote at 2012-01-01 02:38:46
I'm commenting so I can thank everyone.Their comments were very helpful especially in regards to my anxiety.I'm 55 athletic and had a left hydrocele operation 11/28/11 after being diagnosed in April. First tip don't wait if you don't need to! Why? Because i didn't want to lose a month away from an already shorten wisconsin golf season i waited and it grew painlessly to grapefruit size by October. I got by with using a jock strap especially at work as a custodian walking 5 miles and bending down too much.Because of my size the incision was 4-5 inches requiring the doctor to be more cosmetic.Doctor extracted a quart of fluid; hence my new nickname.

I had very little pain took Oxy's just for fun.Make sure you have some one to help you first 2 days. I slept in a very controllable recliner allowing for small adjustments. I get constipation from those drugs so my lower back hurts if i lay flat too long. No lap dogs!!!!

You leave hospital(wear sweatpants) gauzed and with a jock strap. I wore long underwear over that then placed 2 of those soft hot/cold pack (wal-mart $2.50) held in place by my tight biking(chamois) shorts. Able to walk around like that!

Once bandages come off use a maxipad, which has adhesive for backing and strategically place it to your jock strap for comfort against your incision. Tip I got here worked great.Buy 6-8 pack at least cause this will become your daily bandage. Another tip use your worse sweatpants and tear a hole in the crotch so you can begin to get air circulation to aid healing while your reclining.I took 3 weeks from work only because I'm on my feet walking all day.I was healed and back to full workout in 1 month.

Get it done ASAP it's painless. I had Dr.whose a childhood friend do mine so he had to do a good job or else.

THANKS FOR THE TIPS GUYS   PIECE OF CAKE!

Another tip use hair dryer after showers.  

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Brent wrote at 2012-01-20 16:56:22
Had the left Hydrocele done on monday.  I walked into the hospital at 8am, was in the operating room by 9:30, in OR for 50 minutes and back up in the hospital room soon after.  I left the hospital by 11:45 am.  Yes this is a day surgery but still can be painful.  I am 34 and very athletic.  I was woozy from the drugs for the first day which explains some discomfort but not allot.  Took the Tylenol 3 for 2 day(10 pills in total).  Woke up day 2 and was moving around the house but with discomfort.  The pain of course was in the scrotum from swelling ect but the lower back pain was the worst.  This only lasted for the 2nd day.  Day 3, I quit taking the T3's and took 2 advil in morning and that was all.  I went back to work day 3.  I was able to move but not quickly and spend most of half day I was there sitting at a desk.  Day 4, I am back at work full time and am a little tender but no major pain.  Still swollen and tender but able to function easily.  Icing helped but I found as soon as I iced then I tightened up and it was worst so I iced then applied some heat to help circulation.  I am glad I decided to get the surgery and thankful for the easy healing so far. There are some bad stories on here but mine was good so I say it was worth it.  

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Slicky wrote at 2012-02-11 15:28:20
I just had my surgery done yesterday friday february 10th.  It was my right testicle that had the hydrocele.  I have one 4 inch cut on the side if my ball and one very small one on the bottom with a drain tube.  The doc said that I could remove the drain tube sunday night.  There is one stitch holding that one in and to cut it so that the drain could be removed.  My ball was the shape of a water balloon held in your hand swishing it. It was going up the sack tube.  Very uncomfortable during these winter months., something had to be done.  The doctors put me out and I was done in about an hour and a half of surgery.  I was in lots of pain last night every time I moved.  A lot better this morning.  Its swollen a little but looks like its back to normal with extra skin since I've had mine for a while.  I hope to go back to work on tuesday.  Doc said no sports, gym or sexual activates for 4 weeks.  I can't lift more then ten pounds either for risk of tearing the stitches or ris

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Fielding wrote at 2012-02-13 04:38:19
I developed swelling in my left testicle while overseas last August  A doctor came to the hotel and wanted me to have an operation the next day. There was no way I was going to do that, and when I returned and saw a urologist in my city, he let me know that it was a hydrocel. Because of traveling, I could schedule the surgery until January. By then, it was baseball size and growing fast. I went in, got hooked up, stuck and wired, but at the last minute the anestesthiologist wouldn't put me under because I had a temperature of 102 and sinus drainage.



So I rescheduled for this past Thursday. It was much less stressful because I had been thru the beginnings before. I did have to wait for 2.5 hours for my doctor because he had an emergency. But finally the anastesthiologist came in. I asked him to put me under because I didn't want to know what was happening, who was shaving my bits and pieces, etc. He did, and I woke up in considerable pain...holding my breath pain.  They gave me morphine and had me wait more. Then I was feeling fine and got a chocolate malt and my pain pills. Felt great all afternoon and called a bunch of people...a breeze!



Until the 2nd day...felt like someone had stuck knives in me. Third day, felt like I'd been kicked by a mule and the pain was over a wider area. 4th day, better...no pain meds since this morning...just feel bruised. Still draining some.



Paid the surgery center $1100 and still have to pay the doctor and whoever else. I didn't have anyone to stay with me, and it really wasn't necessary in my situation. But I was surprised at the kindness of colleagues and their offers to bring food, etc.



So, so far, not too bad of an experience.  

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