What factors should be considered when deciding whether to have a testicular implant?
A number of published studies have described the negative psychological effects that can result from the loss or absence of a testicle. Various research studies show that the cosmetic benefits of saline-filled testicular implants lead to emotional benefits and high levels of patient satisfaction.
Saline-filled testicular implants may be an appropriate choice for children with undescended testicles or torsion of the testicles. Torsion is an extreme rotation or twisting of one or both testicles that can result in damage that requires removal of the testicle. Adult males also can experience torsion in addition to other traumatic injuries or testicular cancer, all of which may require removal of a testicle. In cases of undescended testicles, your doctor will attempt to find and remove the undescended testicle. This will prevent the future risk of cancer of the undescended testicle.
Saline-filled testicular implants are not recommended if there is infection within the scrotum or anywhere in the body. Before choosing to receive a testicular implant, you should speak to your doctor about your long-term expectations, and all the potential risks and complications that can result from the procedure. It’s important to know that a testicular implant is strictly for cosmetic appearances only, and in no way functions like a natural testicle.
