Urology & Men's Health
Hydrocelectomy
Surgical treatment to remove a hydrocele and relieve testicular swelling and discomfort.
From £2,200
All-inclusive pricing
Day Case Procedure
Home the same day
Consultant Urologist
Expert surgical care
About This Procedure
What is a Hydrocelectomy?
A hydrocele is a collection of fluid that builds up in the sac surrounding the testicle, causing painless swelling in the scrotum. While often not dangerous, a hydrocele can become uncomfortable, cause self-consciousness or may indicate an underlying condition that requires investigation. Hydrocelectomy is the surgical procedure to remove the hydrocele sac and drain the fluid. It is performed as a day case under general anaesthetic and is highly effective, with very low recurrence rates.
Common Question
Could the swelling be something more serious?
Any new or changing scrotal swelling should always be assessed by a doctor to rule out other causes including testicular cancer. A hydrocele is typically benign, but a consultant urologist will examine you and may arrange an ultrasound before proceeding with surgery to confirm the diagnosis. If you have noticed a new scrotal swelling, the right first step is to get it assessed promptly.
Step by Step
What happens on the day?
01
Admission
You arrive having fasted as directed. Your consultant and anaesthetist confirm the plan.
02
The procedure
Under general anaesthetic, a small incision is made in the scrotum. The hydrocele sac is opened, the fluid drained, and the sac either removed or turned inside out and stitched behind the testicle to prevent recurrence. Dissolvable sutures are used. The procedure takes 30-45 minutes.
03
Recovery and discharge
Most patients are discharged the same day. You will need someone to drive you home. Supportive underwear, wound care instructions and pain relief are provided, along with a follow-up appointment.
Key Benefits
Why choose private hydrocelectomy?
→Effective permanent treatment for hydrocele
→Day case procedure — home the same day
→Very low recurrence rate
→General anaesthetic for patient comfort
→Fast access compared to NHS waiting times
→All-inclusive pricing
Pricing
Transparent pricing.
From £2,200
Includes consultation, procedure, anaesthesia and one follow-up appointment.
Unlike many private hospitals, our price covers everything — surgeon, anaesthetist, hospital stay, and follow-up. No surprise bills.
Book a Consultation →No GP referral required
Using health insurance?
We accept Aviva, Bupa, Healix, Vitality, and WPA.
Contact us with your membership number — we handle pre-authorisation.
View insurance information →Your Outcomes
Recovery after hydrocelectomy
Recovery from hydrocelectomy typically takes 1-2 weeks before returning to light work, and 3-4 weeks before returning to physical activity. Swelling and bruising in the scrotum are normal and may take several weeks to fully resolve. Wearing supportive underwear during recovery is recommended.
Day 1-2
Rest at home. Supportive underwear. Ice pack to reduce swelling.
1-2 weeks
Return to desk work. Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting.
3-4 weeks
Return to exercise and physical activity.
4-6 weeks
Full recovery. Follow-up with consultant. Swelling fully resolved.
Hydrocelectomy is a well-established procedure with a high success rate. As with all surgery, risks exist including infection, blood clots, and complications. Your consultant will discuss your individual risk profile before you proceed.
Your Questions
Your questions, answered.
Book a Consultation
Ready to take the next step?
Book an initial consultation for hydrocelectomy — a no-commitment chat with our clinical coordinator. Pick a date that suits you and we’ll call within 24 hours to arrange the exact time with your consultant.
June 2026
Pick a date that suits you
This is your preferred date. We’ll confirm the exact time when we call.
Prefer to speak with someone?
No GP referral required. Same-week appointments available.
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