About Varicocelectomy
Key Highlights
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Effectively treats scrotal pain and discomfort associated with varicoceles.Can significantly improve semen quality (count, motility, morphology) in cases of male infertility.May help prevent potential testicular atrophy (shrinkage) by improving blood flow.Often performed using minimally invasive techniques (microsurgery, laparoscopy) for less post-operative pain and quicker recovery.High success rate with a low recurrence rate when performed by an experienced vascular surgeon.Outpatient or short-stay procedure in most cases./ul
Who is this surgery for?
- Male infertility with abnormal semen analysis and a palpable varicocele.
- Scrotal pain or a persistent dull ache that worsens with physical activity or over the course of the day.
- Visible or palpable enlarged, bag-of-worms-like veins in the scrotum.
- Testicular atrophy (size discrepancy) on the side of the varicocele.
- Progressive worsening of semen parameters over time in a patient with a varicocele.
- Patient preference for treatment due to cosmetic concerns or discomfort.
How to prepare
- Complete a thorough medical evaluation, including a physical exam and possibly a scrotal ultrasound.
- Undergo semen analysis to establish a baseline if infertility is a concern.
- Discuss all current medications with your surgeon; you may need to stop blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, warfarin) several days before.
- Fast (no food or drink) for 6-8 hours before the procedure if general or spinal anesthesia is planned.
- Arrange for transportation to and from the hospital or surgical center.
- Shave the surgical area (groin/scrotum) as instructed by the surgical team.
Risks & possible complications
- Bleeding or formation of a hematoma (blood collection) in the scrotum.
- Infection at the incision site.
- Injury to the testicular artery, which could impair blood supply to the testicle (rare with microsurgical techniques).
- Injury to lymphatic vessels, leading to hydrocele (fluid buildup around the testicle).
- Recurrence of the varicocele.
- Persistent or worsening pain (rare).
- Risks associated with anesthesia (allergic reaction, breathing problems).
- Numbness or altered sensation in the skin of the scrotum or inner thigh.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Most patients go home the same day or after a 1-night observation.
- Apply ice packs to the scrotum for the first 24-48 hours to reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Wear a scrotal support (athletic supporter) for 1-2 weeks for comfort and to minimize swelling.
- Take prescribed pain medication and antibiotics as directed.
- Avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting (more than 10 lbs), and vigorous exercise for 2-3 weeks.
- Keep the incision site clean and dry; showers are usually permitted after 48 hours.
- Follow-up with your surgeon in 1-2 weeks for a wound check and to discuss activity resumption.
- Semen analysis is typically repeated 3-6 months post-procedure to assess improvement.
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Typical hospital stay: 0-1 days
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Expected recovery time: 1-2 weeks for normal activities, 3-6 months for full fertility assessment
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering varicocelectomy in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in India with vascular surgery 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 varicocelectomy. MediFyr helps you compare vascular surgeons 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 varicocelectomy compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | INR 50 Thousand – 200 Thousand | 0-1 days | ~ 1-2 weeks for normal activities, 3-6 months for full fertility assessment | Know More |
| Turkey | TRY 175 Thousand – 700 Thousand | 0-1 days | ~ 1-2 weeks for normal activities, 3-6 months for full fertility assessment | Know More |
Pooja Shah, a 32-year-old software engineer,...
Pooja Shah, a 32-year-old software engineer, had been trying to conceive with her husband for over two years. After initial fertility testing revealed low sperm motility and count on her husband's part, further investigation led to a diagnosis of a left-sided varicocele. He experienced a constant, dull ache in his scrotum, especially after long days at his desk, which he had initially dismissed as muscle strain. Their reproductive endocrinologist referred them to a vascular surgeon, who confirmed the grade 3 varicocele was likely impairing sperm production due to increased testicular temperature. The doctor recommended a microsurgical varicocelectomy as the most effective way to improve semen parameters and potentially their chances of natural conception. The outpatient procedure under general anesthesia went smoothly. Recovery involved a few days of moderate discomfort managed with ice packs and pain medication, and he was back to desk work within a week, avoiding heavy lifting for a month. Emotionally, it was a journey from frustration and self-blame to proactive hope. Before, he felt he was letting Pooja down; after, he felt they had tackled a tangible problem together. Three months post-op, a semen analysis showed significant improvement, renewing their optimism for starting a family.
Vascular surgeons for Varicocelectomy
Explore experienced vascular surgeons who regularly perform varicocelectomy and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
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SIMS Hospital Vadapalani, Chennai
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SIMS Hospital Vadapalani, Chennai