A testicular implant is a soft silicone prosthesis placed in the scrotum to replace a missing testicle. It restores the natural look, size and feel of the scrotum after loss from cancer surgery, torsion, injury or an undescended testis. It does not restore testicular function, such as hormone or sperm production.
- AnaesthesiaGeneral anaesthesia or sedation
- DurationAbout 45 to 60 minutes
- Hospital stayOutpatient / day care
- Back to routineUsually 7 to 10 days for light activity
What is testicular implants?
A testicle may be lost through injury, cancer surgery (orchiectomy), testicular torsion or an undescended testis. An implant replaces the missing testicle, improving appearance and easing the psychological impact of the loss. Implants are silicone shells filled with saline or silicone gel and are designed to match the size and firmness of a natural testicle.
The implant can be inserted through a low groin incision, the most common approach, or through a small incision in the scrotum that creates a pouch for the implant. In the groin method, the neck of the scrotum is stitched to stop the implant moving back up into the groin.
It is a relatively minor outpatient procedure, typically taking 45 minutes to an hour.
Who is testicular implants for?
- Men who have lost a testicle to cancer, torsion or injury
- Men born with an absent or undescended testis
- Those having orchiectomy who want an implant placed at the same time
- Men with asymmetry from a previous implant
- Diabetes or conditions that suppress immunity may make surgery unsuitable
How is it done?
- No food or drink for 8 hours before surgery
- Avoid aspirin and ibuprofen for 2 weeks before, as they affect clotting; your surgeon will advise on other medicines
- General anaesthesia or sedation as an outpatient procedure
- The implant is placed through a low groin incision or a scrotal incision
- Surgery typically takes 45 minutes to an hour
What is recovery like?
- Home the same day with pain relief and a short course of antibiotics
- Pain, swelling and mild bruising typically last about two weeks
- Light activity only for 7 to 10 days; no strenuous exercise for about 2 to 3 weeks
- Stitches dissolve over about three weeks; keep the wound clean and dry and avoid direct soap
- Once pain settles, the implant can be gently repositioned so it rests naturally
What are the risks?
- Infection, bleeding, or scrotal pain and swelling
- Implant moving out of position (migration)
- Leakage, deflation or rupture of the implant
- Firm scar capsule forming around the implant
- Contact your surgeon for persistent bleeding, pain not relieved by painkillers, or wound swelling or discharge
Why choose Dr. Jithendran?
- Dual training in orthopaedics (MS) and plastic surgery (MCh, DNB), with hand and microsurgery experience from Ganga Hospital, Coimbatore
- Consults at five hospitals across Bengaluru, with 24×7 availability for emergencies
- Clear explanations in English, Tamil, Hindi and Telugu, and time to answer every question
- Strict sterilisation and patient-privacy standards
Frequently asked questions
Does a testicular implant work like a real testicle?
No. An implant restores the appearance, size and feel of the scrotum, but it does not produce hormones or sperm. If you have one healthy remaining testicle, it usually maintains hormone levels and fertility on its own.
Can the implant be placed during cancer surgery?
Yes, in many cases an implant can be placed at the same time as removal of the testicle (orchiectomy), or later as a separate procedure. Your surgeon will discuss timing based on your treatment plan.
How long is recovery after testicular implant surgery?
Most men go home the same day. Pain, swelling and bruising typically last about two weeks. Light activity is advised for 7 to 10 days, and strenuous exercise is usually avoided for 2 to 3 weeks.
What are the risks of a testicular implant?
It is a relatively low-risk procedure. Possible complications include infection, bleeding, pain or swelling, implant movement, and rarely leakage, deflation or rupture. Scar tissue can form around the implant. Contact your surgeon promptly if you notice persistent bleeding or discharge.
Which incision is used?
The most common approach is a small low groin incision, with a stitch at the neck of the scrotum to keep the implant in place. Some patients have a small scrotal incision instead. Your surgeon will choose based on your anatomy and any previous surgery.
