Procedure guide · 7 min read

Penile and scrotal day-case surgery

Last updated: 4 May 2026 · Reviewed by Mr Sanjay Rajpal, Consultant Urological Surgeon · GMC 6106646

Hydroceles, epididymal cysts, tight foreskins and short frenula are common, benign issues — and they are also the kind of thing many men live with for years before booking. Most are treated comfortably as day-case surgery, with discreet, careful care and a quick return to normal life.

Key point: An ultrasound and clinical examination first confirm the diagnosis and exclude anything more serious. Surgery is then matched to the cause and your preferences.

Hydrocele repair

A hydrocele is a build-up of fluid around the testicle. It is harmless but can become large and uncomfortable. Repair is a day-case operation under general or spinal anaesthetic, through a small scrotal incision. The fluid is drained and the lining of the sac is treated to stop it returning. Most men return to office work in a week and to sport in three to four weeks.

Epididymal cyst removal

Epididymal cysts are smooth, fluid-filled lumps next to the testicle. Many do not need treatment, but bothersome cysts can be removed through a small scrotal incision. Recovery is similar to hydrocele repair. Mr Rajpal will explain the small risk of fertility impact for men who have not completed their family.

Circumcision

Circumcision is offered for tight or scarred foreskins (phimosis), recurrent infection (balanitis), or persistent skin conditions such as lichen sclerosus that have not responded to creams. The procedure is performed under general anaesthetic as a day case. Dissolvable stitches are used; you will leave with simple dressing and aftercare instructions. Most men return to office work after a week and to sexual activity at four to six weeks.

Frenuloplasty

A short or tight frenulum can cause tearing, pain or bleeding during sex. Frenuloplasty is a small operation that lengthens the frenulum without circumcising the foreskin. It is normally done as a day case under local or general anaesthetic, with a quick recovery and return to activity within a few weeks.

What happens on the day

You will be admitted on the day, fasted as instructed. The procedure is generally short. You will go home the same day with painkillers, a light dressing and clear instructions about hygiene, supportive underwear and when to shower. A follow-up review is usually at four to six weeks.

Recovery

First 48 hours: rest with regular paracetamol or ibuprofen as advised.
First week: supportive underwear, gentle activity, no heavy lifting.
Two to three weeks: back to most activities, including office work.
Four to six weeks: back to sport and sexual activity, depending on procedure.

Risks and side-effects

All scrotal and penile surgery carries a small risk of bruising, swelling, infection and bleeding. Specific risks differ by operation: recurrence after hydrocele repair, scar sensitivity after circumcision, or rare changes in sensation after frenuloplasty. These will be explained in detail at your consultation.

When to seek help

Increasing scrotal swelling, severe pain, or a hard lump after surgery.
Heavy bleeding from the wound that does not stop with pressure.
Fever, redness or discharge that suggests infection.