Many people are a little hesitant to talk about health problems related to the private parts of our bodies. But it is very important to be properly informed about these. Today we are talking about a surgery that is important for men, and perhaps you have not heard of it. That is the surgery called ` Scrotoplasty `. Let's see what it is, when it is done, and what you need to know about it.
Simply put, what is Scrotoplasty?
Scrotoplasty is a surgical procedure. Simply put, it is used to treat or reshape certain conditions that affect your scrotum. As you know, the scrotum is the sac of skin that is located below the penis and that holds and protects the testicles. So, this surgery is used to fix various problems that occur in this area.
Why is it necessary to have this kind of surgery?
There are various reasons why a child or an adult may need this surgery. Some people need it because of congenital conditions. Others need it because of medical conditions that develop after they become adults. Some people also have this surgery for cosmetic reasons. Let's look at the main reasons.
| Reason | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Buried penis | This can happen to both young children and adults. It is when the penis appears to be hidden under the skin of the scrotum, thighs, or abdomen. In adults, it can be caused by abdominal fat that is sags due to obesity or by conditions such as lymphedema, which causes fluid to accumulate around the scrotum. |
| Sagging or enlarged testicle | As you age, the muscles weaken and the scrotum can droop. This can be corrected with a cosmetic surgery (scrotal lift). Also, some people may experience discomfort during exercise or sexual intercourse due to enlarged scrotums. In those cases, this surgery can also make it smaller. |
| Webbed penis | This is where there is a skin connection between the glans penis and the scrotum. This gives it a web-like appearance (penoscrotal webbing) . Sometimes this can interfere with sexual function. |
| Accidents or injuries | If the testicle is damaged in an accident, this surgery helps restore it to normal. |
| Skin infections | Sometimes, dangerous bacterial infections like Fournier's gangrene can cause the skin around the penis and scrotum to die. This surgery is then needed to repair the damaged skin. |
How do you prepare before surgery?
Your doctor will inform you exactly what to do and what not to do before surgery. In general, as an adult, you should be aware of the following:
- Stop some medications: Medications that increase the risk of bleeding, for example, blood thinners like aspirin and pain relievers called NSAIDs , will need to be stopped a few days or a week before surgery. It is essential to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking, even vitamins .
- Avoid eating or drinking: To avoid problems caused by anesthesia , your doctor will tell you to avoid eating or drinking for 8-12 hours before surgery.
- Someone to take you home: Since you will be given painkillers after surgery and due to the effects of anesthesia, it is very important to arrange someone to take you home in advance.
What happens during the surgery?
The steps of the surgery may vary depending on your condition, but typically, surgery for a buried penis or undescended testicle goes like this:
1. You will be given anesthesia . This may be general anesthesia, which numbs the entire body, or local anesthesia, which numbs only the area around the testicles.
2. The surgeon makes a small incision where the penis and scrotum meet.
3. Next, excess skin and tissue are removed.
4. The skin that connects the scrotum to the base of the penis is tightened if necessary.
5. Finally, the incision is closed using dissolvable stitches. Sometimes a small tube (drain) may be placed to reduce swelling.
Usually, this surgery can take at least an hour.
The medical team will make sure that you do not feel any pain during the surgery, but you should expect some pain and discomfort during the recovery period after the surgery.
What are the risks and complications of the surgery?
As with any surgery, there are some risks involved in a scrotoplasty. It is important to discuss all of these openly with your doctor before the procedure.
- Allergy to anesthesia.
- Bleeding, bruising, and swelling.
- Damage to the urinary tract.
- Infection.
- Nerve damage.
- Pain during sexual intercourse.
- Scarring or not achieving the desired appearance.
What are the benefits of this surgery?
The main benefits of this surgery affect a person's quality of life and mental well-being.
- Increased self-esteem: When you are happy with your appearance, you feel more confident. This can directly affect your sexual satisfaction.
- Ease of urination: Conditions like `Buried penis` can make it difficult to urinate and cause urine leakage. After surgery, this condition can be resolved and life can be much easier.
When to see a doctor during and after recovery
This is usually an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home without having to stay in the hospital. However, if the surgery is major, you may need to stay in the hospital for a few days. You may experience pain for a few days and swelling for a few weeks after the surgery.
Your doctor will advise you to avoid sexual activity for at least two to three weeks after surgery. Also, if you experience any of the following symptoms, you should inform your doctor immediately .
| Symptoms that require urgent attention | |
|---|---|
| Chest pain or unusual changes in heartbeat. | |
| Difficulty urinating, pain, or blood in the urine. | |
| Fever . | |
| Nausea and vomiting. | |
| Difficulty breathing . (In such a case, immediately go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.) | |
| Showing signs of infection (pus discharge, discoloration) at the surgical site or where the catheter was inserted. | |
Take-Home Message
- Scrotoplasty is a surgical procedure performed on the scrotum for medical or cosmetic reasons.
- It is essential to follow your doctor's instructions exactly before surgery and to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
- It takes some time to heal after surgery, and pain and swelling are normal.
- As with any surgery, there are risks, so be sure to discuss all the pros and cons with your doctor before having the procedure.
- If you develop any dangerous symptoms during your recovery, seek medical advice immediately. Don't be afraid or embarrassed about it.
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