Hydrocoele Surgery Melbourne
A hydrocoele is an accumulation of fluid within the tunica vaginalis, the membrane surrounding the testicle. This causes painless swelling of the scrotum that can vary in size and may slowly enlarge over time. While hydrocoeles are benign, they can become uncomfortable due to size or weight and may cause cosmetic concerns. Hydrocoele repair (hydrocelectomy) is a surgical procedure to remove the fluid and prevent recurrence by addressing the underlying membrane.
Written and clinically reviewed by Dr Brendan Dias
Consultant Urologist & Robotic Surgeon · MBBS, MS (General Surgery), DrNB (Urology), IntFRCS (England), FUSANZ, FRACS (Urology)
Last clinically reviewed: 26 August 2026
Benefits
- Permanent solution with low recurrence rate
- Relief from scrotal heaviness and discomfort
- Improved cosmetic appearance
- Day surgery procedure
- Quick return to normal activities
- Allows examination of the testicle to exclude other pathology
The Procedure
Hydrocoele repair is performed as a day surgery procedure under general or spinal anaesthesia. An incision is made in the scrotum, and the hydrocoele sac is exposed and opened. The fluid is drained, and the sac is either excised (removed) or plicated (folded and sutured behind the testicle) using the Jaboulay or Lord technique. The testicle is examined to ensure no other abnormality exists. The wound is closed with dissolvable sutures, and a scrotal support dressing is applied.
Who Is a Candidate?
Hydrocoele repair is recommended for men with a hydrocoele causing discomfort, heaviness, or cosmetic concern, large hydrocoeles that interfere with daily activities, hydrocoeles that continue to enlarge, or when there is diagnostic uncertainty and the testicle needs to be examined. Small, asymptomatic hydrocoeles may be observed without surgery. Needle aspiration is not recommended as recurrence is almost certain.
Recovery
Most men return to desk work within 1 week and physical work within 2-3 weeks. Wear supportive underwear continuously for the first 2 weeks. Swelling and bruising of the scrotum are normal and may take several weeks to fully resolve. Avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and sexual activity for 2-3 weeks. Apply ice packs for the first 48 hours to reduce swelling.
Risks & Considerations
Hydrocoele repair is generally safe with serious complications being uncommon. Potential risks include scrotal swelling and bruising (expected), wound infection (rare), recurrence of hydrocoele (5-10% depending on technique), chronic scrotal pain (uncommon), haematoma formation (uncommon), and rarely injury to testicular blood supply. Dr Dias will discuss these risks and how they apply to your specific situation.