What is a Prosthetic Testicle? Let's talk about it!

You may have been born without one testicle. Or you may have had to have one surgically removed (orchiectomy) due to an accident, infection, or a medical condition such as cancer. In such a case, when you only have one testicle where there should be two, you may feel a little anxious, embarrassed, or low self-esteem about the empty appearance. That's when we talk about this artificial testicle.

Simply put, what is an artificial testicle?

An artificial testicle is a man-made device that is implanted into the body to replace a lost or removed testicle. Specifically, it is used to fill the space inside the scrotum, the sac that holds the testicles, behind your penis.

Typically, a man who loses a testicle later in life is more likely to have an artificial testicle transplant than someone who was born without one.

Why would anyone think of doing something like this?

This is a completely personal decision. The loss of a testicle does not affect your sexual function, that is, your ability to get an erection, or your ability to have sex. However, many men turn to this solution to rebuild their self-confidence because they are concerned about their body image and feel like they lack something.

When it comes to what these artificial testicles are made of, in the past, various types of metals were used. But now they are made of silicone rubber, which is very similar to the weight, shape, and feel of a natural testicle. They are filled with silicone gel or saline. Also, they come in different sizes to fit your other testicle, so your doctor can choose the one that is right for you.

What are the characteristics of a good artificial testicle?

To achieve the best results, the artificial testicle you choose should have certain qualities. Let's take a look at what those qualities are.

In what cases is an artificial testicle needed?

There can be several reasons for the loss of a testicle.

• Birth without a testicle or one that does not develop properly.
• Testicular torsion and not treating it promptly.
• Undescended testicles are testicles that do not descend from the abdomen into the scrotum.
• Severe infections of the testicles (Epididymitis).
• Having to remove it due to testicular cancer.

How is this surgery done?

If you decide to have this type of surgery, you should first see a urologist, a doctor who specializes in diseases of the urinary and reproductive systems. He or she will answer all your questions and explain the surgery in detail.

These are the steps in which this surgery usually takes place:

1. Anesthesia: An anesthesiologist will give you anesthesia. This can be general anesthesia , which puts your whole body to sleep, or local anesthesia, which numbs only the area being operated on.

2. Incision: The doctor will make a very small incision in the lower part of your groin or above your scrotum.

3. Positioning: Next, a small "pocket" is created inside the scrotum to house the artificial testicle.

4. Implantation: In the created space, the artificial testicle is placed in the correct position and secured with a small suture to prevent it from moving around.

5. Suturing: Finally, the external incision is closed using dissolvable sutures.

This is a very simple surgery that usually takes less than an hour. In most cases, you can go home the same day as the surgery. However, if you are given general anesthesia, you will definitely need to have a friend or family member drive you home.

What are the benefits and risks of this?

Like any surgery, this one has benefits and some risks.

Who may be at increased risk?

Some people are at slightly higher risk of developing these complications.

• People with diabetes or a weakened immune system are at higher risk of infection.
• If there is an infection elsewhere in the body at the time of surgery.
• If you have previously had surgery on the scrotum .

How long does it take to recover after surgery?

After surgery, you need to give yourself some time to recover. You can expect the following:

• You may feel some pain and discomfort in the area for the first 24-48 hours. The doctor will prescribe painkillers for this.
• The bandages applied to the wound will need to be left on for several days.
• There is no difficulty in urinating (peeing).
• You may be asked to use something like special underwear to support the scrotum.
• If there is a risk of infection, the doctor will prescribe antibiotics .
• Most importantly: You should avoid lifting weights, riding a bicycle or motorcycle, and doing strenuous exercise for about a month after surgery.

A question that many people have is, "When can I have sex again after surgery?" It is usually best to abstain from masturbation and sexual intercourse for a week or two.

When to see a doctor quickly

If you experience any of the following symptoms after surgery, notify your doctor without delay.

• UnbearableIf there is severe pain .
• If you have difficulty urinating .
• If the cut is bleeding heavily or pus is coming out.
• If you experience numbness or loss of sensation in the scrotum.
• If you show signs of infection, such as fever and chills .
• If you have fertility problems .