Modern Hydrocele Surgery for Quick Recovery & Lasting Results

What is a hydrocele?

A hydrocele is a collection of fluid in the thin sac that surrounds a testicle. It causes painless swelling of one or both sides of the scrotum. In newborn boys it is common and often settles by itself within the first year. In adults it usually develops slowly, and can follow an injury, infection (epididymitis) or surgery in the groin, though often no cause is found.

Symptoms that need a urologist’s check

• Swelling of the scrotum that is getting bigger or feels heavy
• Discomfort while walking, sitting, cycling or during intercourse
• Swelling that changes size during the day (this can mean a hernia or a communicating hydrocele)
• Sudden pain or a hard lump in the testicle, which needs to be seen the same day

How we diagnose it

Dr. Bivek Kumar examines the scrotum and arranges a scrotal ultrasound. The scan confirms the fluid, checks the testicle itself, and rules out a hernia, cyst or tumour hiding behind the swelling. Needle drainage alone is not advised, because the fluid usually comes back and infection can follow.

Hydrocele surgery (hydrocelectomy)

Surgery is the permanent treatment. Through a small cut on the scrotum, the fluid is removed and the sac is either turned inside out (Jaboulay) or folded (Lord’s plication) so the fluid cannot collect again. In children the repair is done through a small groin cut and closes the connection to the abdomen.

• Done under spinal or general anaesthesia, typically in about 30–45 minutes
• Most patients go home the same day or the next morning
• Desk work can usually resume in about a week; avoid heavy lifting and gym work for 2–3 weeks
• Scrotal support and ice packs help settle swelling, which may take a few weeks to go down fully

Is it safe?

Hydrocele repair is a routine, low-risk operation. Possible problems include temporary bruising, a collection of blood (haematoma), infection and, rarely, recurrence. Careful technique keeps these uncommon, and fertility and sexual function are not affected.

Hydrocele treatment in Koramangala and Bellandur

Dr. Bivek Kumar (MCh Urology, FRSM) has over 18 years of experience in scrotal and andrology surgery. He consults at Superhealth Hospital, Koramangala (Mon–Sat, 9 am–6 pm) and Nelivigi Multispeciality Hospital, Bellandur (Tue, Thu & Sat 7–8 pm; Sunday by appointment only). Consultations are available in English, Hindi, Kannada and Bengali. Book an appointment or read about men’s health and andrology care.