Several studies have described the negative psychological effects of the loss or absence of a testicle or testicles. These and other studies have suggested that testicular implants (also known as Testicular Prosthesis) lead to improved body image and are associated with a high levels of patient satisfaction and self improvement.
The Elist Prosthesis
Indications for Implant
Possible Side Effects
Specifics about the Procedure
Preoperative & Postoperative Care
Contraindications
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Silicone Prosthetics cause any human diseases?
First, let me point out, that there is no published data that demonstrates that silicone prosthetics cause human disease. The concern however, is whether silicone or the silicone gel that had been used in the older prosthetic devices leaks from the implant and acts as an antigen….a foreign body that activates the immune system causing an autoimmune disease. An autoimmune disease is a disease process in which the body's own immune system acts against itself causing inflammation and scarring in otherwise healthy tissue.
What they term 'human adjuvant disease' includes several common disease processes of rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, and systemic lupus erythermatosus among others. What is important to note is that all disease processes described have been associated with silicone breast implants but not silicone testicular prostheses.
Is there any alternative to implantation of Testicular Prosthetics?
Although, the testicular prostheses can create or restore a more normal cosmetic appearance of a testes-containing scrotum, the alternative to implant placement is simply no treatment. Not having treatment will require leaving a partially empty or completely empty scrotum. Another alternative (except for men with testicular cancer) is a procedure called subcapsular orchiectomy, which removes the testicle tissue from the capsule. The empty capsule is left in the scrotum. Although this tissue removal provides a smaller scrotal structure, it may be preferable to the alternative of an empty scrotum.
Is there any condition that could increase the risk of injury from testicular implants or make device implantation difficult or impossible?
There are several conditions that could increase the risk of injury from testicular implants or make device implantation difficult or impossible. These contraindications include infection and untreated cancer. It's important to know that a testicular implant is strictly for cosmetic appearances only, and in no way functions like a natural testicle.
How many types of Testicular Implants are currently available?
There are three types of implants currently available. However, only one, the Mentor saline-filled testicular implant has received approval from the FDA for implantation as a testicular prosthesis. The other two, Silimed's Silicone Elastomer device and Mentor's Soft-Solid Device are available for implantation only as part of a research protocol for which I am a Principal Investigator.
Is there any certain specific risk and complication from Testicular Enlargement Surgery?
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks such as infection, delayed wound healing, fluid collection, hematoma formation (a collection of blood inside the body in and around where the incision is made), bleeding and possible reactions from anesthesia. These complications are uncommon. Small areas of fluid collection and small hematomas will be absorbed by your body.
In addition to these known risks, there are unanswered questions about silicone implants, which, as previously discussed, mostly apply to silicone gel-filled breast implants. Certain risks that may be associated with silicone gel will not occur with the newer devices including the saline-filled, soft-solid or silicone elastomer devices. However, since all types of currently available implants have a silicone rubber envelope, they may be associated with certain specific risks and complications.
Do I have to avoid taking any kind of medication before surgery?
You should avoid aspirin and aspirin like products (e.g. ibuprofen) and stop all herbal supplements for a week before your surgery.
Do I have to stay in the hospital over night after the surgery?
Testicular implant surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis (no overnight stay). However, for those patients with significant underlying medical problems, a brief hospital stay might be required.
How long does the procedure take?
Procedure will usually take between 30 and 60 minutes.
Is the procedure performed under general anesthesia?
The procedure is performed under either a local, general or a spinal anesthetic, all of which are extremely safe and effective. These options will be discussed in detail with you by the anesthesiologist prior to the procedure.
Will I experience discomfort and pain after the procedure?
Most patients experience some discomfort during the first 24 to 48 hours after your procedure. I will prescribe painkillers to take if needed.
Will I have any difficulty urinating after the procedure?
Your ability to urinate should not be affected.
When can I resume my daily activities after the procedure?
Although every person's recovery time is different, you should be able to resume most of your daily activities within a week to ten days.
Is there the chance that the body shows any adverse reaction to the implant?
There is the chance, though minimal, that the body could have an adverse reaction to the implant
How often the patients may need re-surgery to either remove or adjust the implant?
Approximately 1 in 30 patients require re-surgery within the first year to either remove or adjust the implant.
Does Testicular Implant function like a natural testicle?
It's important to know that a testicular implant is strictly for cosmetic appearances only, and in no way functions like a natural testicle.
BEFORE AND AFTER PICTURES
