What are testicular implants?

People may have one or both of their testicles missing due to an injury, surgery for cancer, or twisting of the normal testis(Torsion Testis) . In such a case, restoring the aesthetic appeal of the testis in the scrotum becomes important to deal with the psychological wellbeing of the individuals. A normal shaped testis with an implant will lift the self-confidence of the people and have an impact on the quality of their life. It enhances the self-esteem and confidence in the patient by restoring the natural appearance, size, and consistency of the testis post-surgery.

Testicular implants are used to replace the lost or removed testicle in the scrotum. This implant improves the appearance and reduces the psychological stress of the individual. The implants restore the cosmetic appearance that have the same weight, size and appearance as that of the normal testicle and are available in various sizes. But, these implants do not possess the natural functions of the testis. These implants are made of silicone rubber shell which are filled with either saline or silica gel.

What are the types of the testicular implant surgeries?

The surgery is performed in two ways depending upon the incision site.

• Subcuticular pouch insertion involves placing the implant through an incision made in the opposite hemi-scrotum creating a subcuticular pouch.
• Low groin incision is the most common procedure used to place the testicular implants.

Which individuals are eligible for the surgery?

Testicular implants are recommended for the individuals with

• Testicular cancer
• Undescended testis
• Orchiectomy with prosthesis placement, and asymmetrical results

Your doctor may not recommend testicular implant surgery if you have diabetes or any other suppressed immune disorders.

How should I prepare for the surgery?

You should refrain from eating or drinking 8 hours before surgery to minimize the risks associated with anesthesia. You should avoid taking aspirin or ibuprofen 2 weeks prior to the procedure because these medications may lower blood clotting ability. Your surgeon will recommend you on the medications should be taken before the surgery.

What will happen during the surgery?

Step 1: Anesthesia

You will be given either general or sedation anesthesia. The surgery is performed on an outpatient basis and the procedure may take 45 minutes to one hour for the completion.

Step 2: Incision

Subcuticular pouch insertion: Your surgeon makes a skin incision in the opposite hemi-scrotum within the midline raphe. A subcuticular pouch is created through this incision for placing the prosthesis in the empty hemi-scrotum.

Low groin incision: Your surgeon will make an incision in the groin and places the artificial testicle in the scrotum. Then, the neck of the scrotum is sutured to prevent the implant from moving back to the groin.

What is the aftercare of the surgery?

Following surgery, you are discharged with a prescription for pain medicine and a short-term antibiotic to prevent infection.

Expect to have pain and swelling for the first two weeks, along with minor bruising. The results are permanent with an increase in the testicular size immediately after the surgery.

During the recovery period, you should:

• Engage only in light activity for the first 7-10 days.
• Avoid strenuous activity and exercise for about 2-3 weeks following surgery.
• The sutures or stitches need not be removed as they will dissolve on their own over the next three weeks.
• Gently manipulate the prosthesis to facilitate it to rest in a natural, dependant position in the scrotum when there is no pain.
• You should keep your wound clean and dry.
• Avoid touching wound with your hands unless you washed them thoroughly so as to prevent infection.
• Avoid using soap directly on the wound and do not rub the area.

What are the post-surgical considerations?

Testicular implant surgery is considered a minor surgery and may have relatively low-risk than any other surgeries. The risks associated with testicular implant include:

• Implant migration
• Infection
• Bleeding
• Scrotal pain and swelling
• Fibrous capsular formation
• Tissue compromise and implant leakage or deflation.
• Rupture or leaking of the implant

You should immediately notify the surgeon if you have persistent bleeding, pain which is not controlled by painkillers, and swelling or discharge from the wound.