Testicular enlargement can refer to two different things. It can mean a medical condition that causes your testicles to grow larger, or it can refer to cosmetic surgery to increase testicle size. Men are becoming more open about their health concerns and appearance goals, and that includes their testicles and even factors like semen viscosity.
Some men seek medical treatment for testicular enlargement due to size differences or testicular atrophy. Other men simply want to enhance the appearance of their testicles.
There are surgical and nonsurgical options for testicular enlargement. This article provides an overview of the causes and procedures, along with things to consider before and after any treatment.
Reasons for Testicular Enlargement and Shrinkage
Changes in testicle size can be concerning. Let’s look at some of the reasons testicles might enlarge or shrink.
Medical Reasons for Enlargement
Infections such as orchitis (inflammation of the testicle) or epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis, a tube at the back of the testicle) can cause swelling and enlargement. Symptoms include pain, redness, and tenderness.
A hydrocele (fluid buildup around the testicle) or varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum) can lead to gradual enlargement.
Testicular torsion, a medical emergency where the testicle twists, can lead to long-term size changes if not treated quickly. The lack of blood flow can damage the testicle.
Reasons for Testicular Shrinkage
Age-related atrophy is a natural process. Testicles are generally at their largest around age 20 and gradually decrease in size after age 50.
Medical conditions like Klinefelter’s syndrome, a genetic condition, can result in smaller testicles.
Anabolic steroid use can also cause testicular shrinkage. Steroids interfere with natural testosterone production, which can affect testicle size.
Testicular Implant Procedures: An Overview
If you’re considering getting a testicular implant, it’s helpful to understand the different types of implants, surgical techniques, and incision placements.
Types of Implants
- Silicone implants: These are the most common type of testicular implant because they look and feel the most like a natural testicle. Your doctor can discuss the advantages of silicone over other materials during your consultation.
- Saline implants: Saline implants are less common than silicone ones, but they’re still an option in some cases. Your doctor can outline the characteristics and potential drawbacks of saline implants.
Surgical Techniques
- Side-by-side technique: In this technique, the surgeon places the implant next to the existing testicle. This is often preferred when there’s a minimum size difference between the natural testicle and the implant.
- Wrap-around technique: In the wrap-around technique, the implant essentially “wraps” around the existing testicle. Your doctor can explain the advantages of this approach.
Incision Placement
- Low midline scrotal incision: Many surgeons prefer to make the incision in the low midline of the scrotum because it minimizes the risk of the implant being pushed out of place and reduces scarring. If you’ve had prior surgery, your doctor may be able to use an existing groin incision.
Implant Size, Customization, and Considerations
When it comes to testicle implants, size matters. Standard sizes for replacement range from 3.0 to 5.0 cm, mirroring the average testicle size in the US (3.5-5cm long and 3cm wide, or 18-25cc in volume). For those seeking enhancement, implants typically range from 5.5cm to 7.5cm.
But what if you’re looking for something more unique? Custom implants can be designed for larger sizes or specific shapes, ranging from 5cc to 40cc (or a maximum of 5cm x 4cm), and even up to 8.5cm. The softness of the implant can also be customized. The “durometer” refers to the implant’s firmness; softer implants are achieved through lower durometer scores and hollow inner chambers, offering a more natural feel.
Choosing the right size and shape is crucial for a natural look and feel. Keep in mind that the scrotal tissues can often adjust to accommodate larger implants over time.
The Surgical Procedure and Recovery
Surgery to correct testicle enlargement is usually an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia. The surgery itself takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
Expect some discomfort and swelling afterward, usually lasting a day or two. You can usually resume light activities after a week or ten days, but hold off on anything strenuous longer.
It’s really important to follow your doctor’s instructions for recovery and when to resume activity. Your doctor will likely require medical exams, blood work, and urine tests before the procedure, as well as guidance on how to get the best sperm sample for IVF.
Things to keep in mind and potential complications
The best candidates for this surgery are in good health and can tolerate surgery well. Potential problems include infection (managed with antibiotics), implant shifting, and capsular contracture. Capsular contracture happens when scar tissue forms around the implant and can change its appearance.
It’s important to have realistic expectations because individual results differ. Choose a surgeon with experience in testicle implants who uses a low midline scrotal incision. This approach is associated with fewer complications and better aesthetic results.
In closing
Men consider testicle enlargement for medical and cosmetic reasons. Some seek it to correct a congenital issue, while others look for a boost in confidence or to balance asymmetry.
Surgical techniques vary, as do the types of implants that can be used.
If you’re thinking about this procedure, do your homework. Consult with a qualified surgeon, and go in with realistic expectations.
Testicular enlargement can offer real benefits, but it also carries risks. Knowing the ins and outs ahead of time is key to making the right choice for your body and your peace of mind.