Scrotal surgery

If you're having dilated veins treated, your surgeon will insert a tiny tube into your groin and block the affected vein to cut off its blood flow. You'll be given a local anaesthetic to numb the area.

Removal of cysts and treatment of swelling are usually carried out under general anaesthetic. For both procedures, your surgeon will make a small cut in your scrotum. They will then remove the cysts or drain the excess fluidm before repairing the cut with dissolvable stitches.

As with all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you and answer any questions you have. If you need a general anaesthetic, your consultant will tell you how long to avoid eating and drinking before your procedure.

You should be able to go home on the day. You won't be able to drive so please arrange for someone to collect you. It's normal to experience swelling and discomfort around your groin and scrotum for a few days after your procedure.

Taking painkillers as advised by your consultant and wearing supportive underwear or a jockstrap should help. You'll have a dressing on the area so try to keep this dry by not showering for three days.

Depending on your job, you may want to take about a week off work. However, your consultant will let you know when you can back to your usual routine.