Having a missing testicle is often an emotionally challenging situation for men.
A testicular prosthesis procedure is a simple and safe surgical solution that can help those with a missing testicle achieve the cosmetic result they desire.
A testicular implant is placed within the body to address the loss of one or both testicles in children and adults due to various physical conditions, including testicular cancer.
Testicular implants are designed to be soft to the touch and provide a natural look and feel. In addition, the cosmetic results that testicular implants provide can have positive psychological benefits and result in a high level of patient satisfaction.
Testicular prostheses represent a simple and easy way to rid a patient of an altered body image than can negatively affect their emotional health.
If you have questions regarding modern testicular prostheses and would like to know if you are a candidate for a testicular implant, schedule a consultation with the team at Urology of Greater Atlanta.
Our expert urologists offer accurate testicular diagnostic tests and tailor-made treatment plans. Call or book an appointment now.
When Should Men Consider Testicular Prosthesis Implantation?
Most men opt for implantation of testicular prostheses if they have lost either one or both testicles due to undescended testicles, germ cell tumors, a radical orchiectomy, atrophy, testicular torsion, or if they are testis cancer survivors.
A testicular implant is solely for cosmetic purposes and does not function as a natural testicle.
Testicular prostheses are similar to breast implants because they are usually made from silicone and are either saline-filled, silicone gel-filled, or fully solid.
Testicular prosthesis patient selection is conducted by a physician.
Many patients can benefit from prosthetic testicles. However, results may vary according to each patient’s medical circumstances.
It is important to consult with your doctor to determine if a testicular implant is the right option for you.
What Does a Testicular Prosthesis Procedure Involve?
The surgical technique of a modern testicular prostheses procedure involves the patient first being put under general anesthesia.
The doctor then chooses an implant size to match the normal testicle to have a natural feel compared to the real testicle.
In cases where both testes are missing, two implants will be selected to restore the symmetry of the entire scrotum.
When the implants are sized and chosen, the doctor will then fill the testicular implants with either a saline solution or silicone, make an inguinal incision and place the implant inside of the scrotum.
A testicular prostheses procedure can be performed within 20 to 40 minutes and are often an outpatient procedure.
Patients may experience discomfort during the first 48 hours after the procedure but will be able to resume their daily activities within 7 to 10 days after the surgery.
Although testicular prosthesis implantation is a relatively simple surgical procedure, there may be some risks associated with the implants, such as rupturing of the implant, autoimmune disorders, and connective tissue disease.
Consult your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
What Are the Different Types of Testicular Implants?
Several different materials have been used over the years to make testicular implants, including glass, plastic, metal, rubber, and silicone.
Currently, Coloplast is the only FDA-approved testicular implant manufacturer, and they are the world leader in prosthetic technology.
Different types of modern testicular prosthesis implants include the following:
- Saline-Filled Implants: A saline-filled testicular prosthesis is the only type of implant that the FDA approves. A saline-filled testicular implant is very similar to a natural testicle in terms of softness, weight, and size. Before implantation, this type of implant is filled with a saline solution.
- Soft-Solid Implants: A soft-solid testicular prosthesis is filled with a cured silicone elastomer before implantation. They are available in various sizes and are similar to silicone breast implants.
Soft-solid testicular prostheses are not approved by the FDA but are available in limited countries outside of the USA. - Silicone Elastomer Implants: A silicone-elastomer prosthesis is made of a thin and smooth-surfaced silicone elastomer and can be likened to an oval carving block. These silicone implants are designed to have a shape and density similar to actual testicles.
Although Silicone Elastomer implants are not FDA approved, they are used throughout the United States and are very safe to use.
Conclusion
If you have concerns regarding testicular prosthesis, make an appointment to speak to one of the urologists at Urology of Greater Atlanta. Our expert urologists provide state-of-the-art diagnosis and personalized treatment. Call or book an appointment now.
