Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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What is a hydrocele repair?
A hydrocele is a collection of fluid around the testicle. Surgery for a hydrocele involves removing or repairing the fluid sac surrounding your testicle to prevent the fluid from coming back. This is usually done under general or spinal anaesthetic. The surgeon makes a small incision in the scrotum, drains the fluid, and closes or removes the sac using absorbable stitches. After surgery, your testicle may feel bulkier than it did before, which is normal.
What to expect after the procedure
After the operation, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort around the scrotum, which may last several days to a few weeks. Your testicle will feel larger because of the “bunched-up” sac or remaining tissue. You will be provided with scrotal support (such as a jock strap) to help with comfort, and all stitches are dissolvable, disappearing within two to three weeks. Most patients recover without major issues and may not require routine follow-up unless advised.
Pain and recovery
Mild pain and tenderness are common and can usually be managed with simple painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen. Ice packs (not directly on the skin) may help reduce swelling in the first few days. Heavy lifting and strenuous activity should be avoided for at least four weeks. While most discomfort improves steadily, increasing pain, swelling, or bruising day by day should prompt contact with your surgical team.
How to look after yourself
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Wear the scrotal support or tight underwear as advised.
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Keep the cut clean and dry.
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Take pain relief as recommended.
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Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for four weeks.
Red flags – when to seek medical attention
Contact your healthcare team immediately if you notice:
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Increasing swelling, redness, or severe pain at the surgical site
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Pus or bad-smelling discharge from the cut
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Fever or feeling generally unwell
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Persistent or worsening bruising or blood collection around the testicle
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Difficulty peeing or sudden severe pain
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Leg swelling, chest pain, or shortness of breath
Who to contact
After reading this information, if you have any concerns, please contact:
Frimley park hospital
- surgical helpline 07990528061 for advice between 7am-8pm Monday-Sunday.
Wexham Park hospital surgical helpline:
- Males: 03006154570
- Females: 03006159062 / 03006159063 for advice between 8am-9pm Monday-Sunday.
If you are feeling unwell, have pain, fevers, or any concerns please present to your local A&E department.
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Urology service.
About this information
Service:
Urology
Reference:
Z/024
Approval date:
22 June 2026
Review date:
1 June 2029
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.