About Orchidectomy
Key Highlights
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Definitive treatment for testicular cancer, offering high cure rates when detected early.Can alleviate severe, chronic pain from conditions like testicular torsion or trauma.Part of gender-affirming care for transgender women (as part of vaginoplasty).Performed by an andrologist, a specialist in male reproductive system surgery.Can be a life-saving procedure in cases of advanced or aggressive malignancies.
Who is this surgery for?
- Diagnosis of testicular cancer (the most common reason).
- Severe, irreparable testicular trauma or torsion.
- Advanced prostate cancer requiring androgen deprivation therapy.
- Preventive measure for high-risk individuals (e.g., with undescended testes).
- As a component of gender-affirming surgery (female confirmation surgery).
- Chronic, debilitating testicular pain (orchiealgia) unresponsive to other treatments.
How to prepare
- Complete medical history review and physical examination by the andrologist.
- Pre-operative tests: blood tests, imaging (ultrasound), and possibly tumor markers.
- Discussion of anesthesia options (general or spinal) and associated risks.
- Informed consent process detailing the procedure, outcomes, and potential for infertility.
- Fasting for 6-8 hours before surgery if general anesthesia is used.
- Arranging for transportation home post-surgery and support during initial recovery.
Risks & possible complications
- Common: Pain, swelling, bruising, and minor bleeding at the surgical site.
- Infection of the incision or scrotum.
- Hematoma (collection of blood) in the scrotum.
- Infertility and loss of natural testosterone production (if both testicles removed).
- Potential for psychological impact, including body image issues or depression.
- Rare risks: Damage to nearby structures, chronic pain, or adverse reaction to anesthesia.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Hospital stay is typically 1 day for observation, or it may be an outpatient procedure.
- Manage pain with prescribed medications and use ice packs to reduce swelling.
- Keep the surgical area clean and dry; avoid baths, swimming, or heavy lifting for 2-4 weeks.
- Wear supportive underwear or a scrotal support for comfort and to minimize swelling.
- Follow-up appointment with the andrologist to monitor healing and remove stitches if needed.
- Discuss hormone replacement therapy (if both testicles removed) to manage symptoms of low testosterone.
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Typical hospital stay: 0-1 days
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Expected recovery time: 2-4 weeks
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering orchidectomy in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in India with andrology departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform orchidectomy. MediFyr helps you compare andrologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for orchidectomy compare across other countries where we have data.
Ayaan Jones, a 42-year-old married father...
Ayaan Jones, a 42-year-old married father of two and a high school teacher, had been experiencing a persistent, dull ache in his right testicle for several months. Initially dismissing it as a minor strain, he grew concerned when he felt a distinct, firm lump during a self-examination. His primary care physician referred him to an andrologist, Dr. Evans, who confirmed a solid mass on ultrasound. A biopsy revealed testicular cancer, specifically a non-seminoma. Dr. Evans recommended a radical inguinal orchidectomy, explaining it was the definitive diagnostic and therapeutic step to remove the primary tumor and determine the exact stage. Ayaan was terrified, grappling with fears about cancer, his mortality, and his sense of masculinity. The surgery itself was straightforward under general anesthesia. Recovery involved manageable pain and two weeks of restricted activity. The pathology report showed the cancer was confined to the testicle (Stage I), requiring only surveillance, no chemotherapy. Physically, he healed well. Emotionally, the relief of successful treatment and a positive prognosis gradually overshadowed his initial fears. With counseling and support from his wife, he came to see the procedure not as a loss, but as a life-saving measure that allowed him to fully focus on being present for his family.