Testicular Implant Revision
A testicular implant may require further assessment when it is painful, sitting in an unsatisfactory position, feels the wrong size, has moved, or develops another implant-related problem.
When a previous testicular implant is not quite right
Testicular implants, also called testicular prostheses, are used to restore the appearance and contour of the scrotum when a testicle is absent or has been removed.
Most concerns do not automatically mean that another operation is required. However, persistent discomfort, an implant sitting too high or in an unnatural position, significant asymmetry, migration, infection, erosion or dissatisfaction with implant size may justify specialist assessment.
Revision differs from first-time implantation because previous surgery can alter the scrotal tissues and available space. Planning therefore depends on the original operation, the current implant position, surrounding tissue quality and the reason revision is being considered.
Common problems with a previous testicular implant
Implant sitting too high
Some patients notice that the prosthesis remains higher in the scrotum than the opposite testicle or does not move naturally.
Size or symmetry concerns
An implant that appears noticeably too large or too small may produce persistent asymmetry or dissatisfaction.
Pain or discomfort
Persistent implant-related pain, tenderness or discomfort should be assessed to determine the likely cause before further surgery.
Migration or malposition
A prosthesis can occasionally move from the intended position or become fixed in an undesirable location.
Infection
Increasing pain, redness, swelling, discharge or systemic symptoms may indicate infection and require prompt medical assessment.
Erosion or extrusion
Thinning or breakdown of the overlying skin, implant exposure or extrusion requires urgent specialist evaluation.
Understanding why the implant is causing a problem
Revision planning begins with determining what is wrong with the existing prosthesis and what outcome you are hoping to achieve.
If available, bring previous operative reports, implant information and relevant medical records to your consultation.
What can testicular implant revision involve?
There is no single revision operation. The surgical approach depends on the problem being treated, previous surgery and the condition of the scrotal tissues.
Repositioning
When appropriate, revision may involve adjusting the implant pocket or position to improve where the prosthesis sits within the scrotum.
Implant replacement
An existing implant may be removed and replaced when a different size or a new prosthesis is considered appropriate.
Implant removal
In some circumstances, particularly infection, erosion or significant implant-related symptoms, removal may be the most appropriate initial treatment.
Delayed replacement
Immediate replacement is not suitable in every situation. When tissues require time to recover, another prosthesis may sometimes be considered at a later operation.
Previous surgery changes the planning
Scar tissue, previous implant pockets and altered scrotal anatomy can influence revision surgery. The aim is to identify the specific implant-related problem and determine which operative approach is reasonable for the individual circumstances.
Not every concern requires surgery. Observation, removal, repositioning, replacement or a staged approach can be discussed according to the findings.
What to expect
Consultation & examination
The prosthesis, scrotal anatomy, symptoms and previous surgery are assessed and your concerns are discussed.
Revision planning
Options may include observation, removal, repositioning, replacement or staged reconstruction.
Surgery
When revision is appropriate, the operative plan is tailored to the existing implant and condition of the tissues.
Recovery & review
Follow-up assesses wound healing, implant position, discomfort and recovery.
Can revision make both sides exactly the same?
The aim of revision is generally to improve a specific implant-related problem rather than create perfect symmetry.
Natural testicles vary in size, height, orientation and movement. Previous surgery, scar tissue and the available scrotal space can also affect the final position and feel of a prosthesis.
Before revision, it is therefore important to identify what can realistically be changed and whether another operation is likely to address the feature that concerns you.
Potential risks of revision surgery
Risks vary according to the type and complexity of revision and your individual circumstances.
- Pain and swelling
- Bruising or haematoma
- Wound problems
- Infection
- Persistent asymmetry or malposition
- Implant erosion or extrusion
- Persistent or new discomfort
- Need for further surgery or implant removal
Your individual risks and alternatives to surgery should be discussed before deciding whether revision is appropriate.
When should I seek prompt medical assessment?
Seek medical advice promptly if an existing implant is associated with increasing redness or swelling, significant worsening pain, wound discharge, skin breakdown, fever or if any part of the prosthesis appears to be exposed.
Acute or severe symptoms may require urgent assessment rather than waiting for a routine appointment.
Testicular implant revision FAQs
My testicular implant sits too high. Can it be lowered?
Can a testicular implant be replaced with a different size?
Can an old testicular implant be removed?
Can a new implant be inserted during the same operation?
My implant feels very firm. Is something wrong?
Does a testicular implant make testosterone or sperm?
What if my original implant surgery was performed elsewhere?
Explore related conditions and treatment
Concerned about a previous testicular implant?
If a testicular prosthesis is painful, poorly positioned, has moved, appears the wrong size or has developed another problem, specialist assessment can help determine whether observation, removal, repositioning or replacement should be considered.
Medical information on this page is general in nature and does not replace individual medical advice. Treatment recommendations depend on symptoms, examination findings, previous surgery and individual circumstances. Seek urgent medical attention for severe pain, rapidly worsening swelling, fever, significant wound problems or other concerning acute symptoms.