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A hydrocelectomy is surgery to treat a hydrocele, a collection of fluid around a testicle that causes scrotal swelling. The surgeon removes or repairs the fluid-filled sac so fluid is less likely to collect again. The procedure may be performed in children or adults, although the surgical approach can differ. The testicle is normally left in place.
read more about hydrocelectomy ...A hydrocele may need surgery if it persists, grows, or causes discomfort. In infants, some hydroceles resolve without surgery, so a clinician may recommend observation first. A hydrocele that communicates with the abdomen may be repaired to close that connection. A clinician should examine new scrotal swelling to confirm its cause before treatment.
Under anesthesia, the surgeon makes an incision in the scrotum or groin. The surgeon drains the fluid and removes, folds, or repairs the sac around the testicle. If the hydrocele communicates with the abdomen, the surgeon closes the opening responsible for that connection. The incision is then closed, and a temporary drain may be placed in some cases.
Scrotal swelling, bruising, and soreness can occur after surgery. Most patients go home the same day, although recovery instructions depend on the operation and the patient's age. Supportive underwear and a short break from strenuous activity may help protect the area while it heals. The surgical team will explain when to resume lifting, exercise, and sexual activity.
Possible complications include infection, bleeding, a collection of blood called a hematoma, and wound-healing problems. A hydrocele can return after treatment. Injury to the testicle or nearby structures is uncommon but may affect fertility or testosterone production. The surgeon can explain how the location and type of hydrocele affect these risks.
No, the operation treats the fluid-filled sac around the testicle. Testicle removal is not part of a routine hydrocelectomy.
Yes, recurrence is possible, though surgery aims to prevent fluid from collecting again. A clinician should assess swelling that returns after recovery.
No. Some infant hydroceles disappear on their own, while persistent or communicating hydroceles may need an operation.
The surgery usually preserves the testicle and surrounding structures. Injury to those structures is a possible complication, so patients with fertility concerns should discuss it with their surgeon.
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Hydrocele repair. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002999.htm. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.
Hydrocele: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16294-hydrocele. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.
Hydrocelectomy: Purpose, Procedure, Risks & Recovery. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/16232-hydrocelectomy. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.
Hydrocelectomy: What to Expect at Home. Kaiser Permanente. https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/health-encyclopedia/he.ug5522. Date Accessed September 30, 2026.