What is Orchiectomy?

Orchiectomy is a surgical procedure in which one or both testicles are removed. It is commonly performed to treat conditions such as testicular cancer, prostate cancer, severe trauma, or certain hormonal disorders. In some cases, it is also done as part of gender-affirming surgery.

The testicles produce male hormones (testosterone), so removing them reduces hormone levels in the body. This helps in controlling the growth of hormone-sensitive cancers, especially prostate cancer. Orchiectomy is considered a straightforward and effective procedure with long-term medical benefits.

The surgery is usually performed by a urologist or general surgeon and can be done as a day-care procedure in many cases.

Purpose & Benefits of Orchiectomy

The main goal of orchiectomy is to treat disease and control hormone levels.

• Treats testicular cancer: Removes cancerous testicles to prevent spread.

• Controls prostate cancer: Reduces testosterone levels that fuel cancer growth.

• Relieves severe testicular conditions: Useful in cases of injury or infection.

• Hormonal management: Helps in conditions requiring reduction of male hormones.

• Permanent solution: Provides long-term results without repeated treatments.

Overall, it is an effective treatment option for both cancer and hormone-related conditions.

Who May Benefit from This Procedure?

Orchiectomy is recommended for patients with specific medical conditions.

• Patients diagnosed with testicular cancer.

• Individuals with advanced prostate cancer.

• Patients with severe testicular injury or infection.

• People requiring hormone reduction therapy.

• Individuals undergoing gender-affirming surgery.

Doctors evaluate the patient’s condition before recommending surgery.

Orchiectomy Procedure

1. Anesthesia

The procedure is usually done under general or local anesthesia so the patient does not feel pain.

2. Incision

A small incision is made in the groin or scrotum, depending on the type of orchiectomy.

3. Removal of Testicle

The affected testicle is carefully removed. In some cases, both testicles may be removed.

4. Closure

The incision is closed with stitches, and a dressing is applied.

5. Recovery Monitoring

The patient is observed for a short time before being discharged.

The procedure is relatively simple and usually completed within a short duration.

Duration & Therapy Setting

Orchiectomy typically takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the complexity of the case. It is performed in a hospital or surgical center by a qualified surgeon.

Most patients are discharged the same day or within 24 hours. The procedure is often done as a day-care surgery with minimal hospital stay.

Safety, Precautions & Risks

Orchiectomy is generally safe, but some risks may be involved.

Common Effects

• Mild pain or swelling

• Bruising in the surgical area

• Temporary discomfort.

Possible Risks

• Infection or bleeding

• Hormonal imbalance

• Reduced fertility

• Emotional or psychological effects

Precautions

• Follow post-surgery instructions carefully

• Avoid heavy physical activity

• Maintain proper hygiene

• Attend follow-up visits.

Proper care helps reduce complications and ensures a smooth recovery.

Types of Orchiectomy

There are different types depending on the condition being treated.

• Simple Orchiectomy: Removal of one or both testicles.

• Radical Inguinal Orchiectomy: Removal through the groin, commonly for cancer.

• Bilateral Orchiectomy: Removal of both testicles.

• Subcapsular Orchiectomy: Removal of inner tissue while preserving outer structure.

The choice depends on the patient’s medical condition.

Recovery After Procedure

Recovery after orchiectomy is usually quick.

• Patients can return home within a day

• Normal activities can resume within 1–2 weeks

• Mild pain may last for a few days

• Full recovery depends on overall health.

Patients may need hormonal therapy or counseling depending on the reason for surgery.

Dr. Aditya Kumar Sharma

MBBS, MS - General Surgery, MCh - Urology, Fellowship in Laparoscopy

Urology

Viraj Khand Gomti Nagar, Former Sahara Hospital, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India, 226010

  • Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
  • DocIndia Verified
  • 11 Awards
  • Consultation fee 700
  • Max Super Speciality Hospital Lucknow

Dr. Mukesh Shah

MBBS, MS - General Surgery, DNB - Urology/Genito - Urinary Surgery

Urology

Vitatsu Dental & Multispeciality Clinic, B-107, 1st Floor, Twin Towers, 2nd Cross Road, Andheri (W), Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

  • Mumbai, Maharashtra
  • Practo Care Surgeries + 3 more clinics

Dr. Shrikant Badwe

MBBS, MS - General Surgery, MCh - Urology

Urology

3-1, Ground Floor, Jaykar Smruti Building, Array Road, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

  • Mumbai, Maharashtra
  • 7 Awards
  • BK Kidney and GI Centre + 1 more clinic

Dr. Pankaj Maheshwari N

MBBS, DNB - General Surgery, MS - General Surgery, MCh - Urology

Urology

Mulund Goregaon Link Road, Industrial Area, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

  • Mumbai, Maharashtra
  • 5 Awards
  • Fortis Hospital

Dr. Pradeep Prabhakar Rao

MBBS, DNB - Urology/Genito - Urinary Surgery

Urology

35, D.E.Borges Road, Hospital Avenue, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

  • Mumbai, Maharashtra
  • Global Hospitals + 2 more clinics

Dr. Suresh Kumar Bhagat

MBBS, MS - Urology, MCh - Urology

Urology

Raheja Rugnalaya Marg., Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

  • Mumbai, Maharashtra
  • S L Raheja Fortis Hospital + 1 more clinic

Dr. Anjali Bhosle

MBBS, MS - General Surgery, MCh - Urology, DNB - Urology/Genito - Urinary Surgery

Urology

Mulund Goregaon Link Road, Industrial Area, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

  • Mumbai, Maharashtra
  • Fortis Hospital + 2 more clinics

Dr. Suraj Suchak

MBBS, MS - General Surgery, MCh - Urology

Urology

186, Manchubhai Road, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

  • Mumbai, Maharashtra
  • 2 Awards
  • Suchak Hospital + 2 more clinics

Dr. Sachin Pahade

MBBS, DNB - General Surgery, DNB - Urology/Genito - Urinary Surgery

Urology

179/180, Road Number 2, Kamal Charan Building, Jawahar Nagar, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

  • Mumbai, Maharashtra
  • SRV Hospital + 4 more clinics

Dr. Amit Bhat

MBBS, MCh - Urology

Urology

179/180, Road Number 2, Kamal Charan Building, Jawahar Nagar, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

  • Mumbai, Maharashtra
  • SRV Hospital

Frequently Asked Questions

It is used to treat testicular cancer, prostate cancer, and conditions requiring reduction of male hormones.

It is a relatively simple and safe procedure. It is usually done as a day-care surgery.

The procedure typically takes 30 minutes to 1 hour.

No, it is done under anesthesia. Mild discomfort may occur after surgery.

Yes, most people live normal lives, though hormone levels may change.

Yes, removal of both testicles can affect fertility and hormone production.

Yes. Risks are rare but may include infection, bleeding, or hormonal imbalance.

If you notice swelling, pain, or symptoms related to testicular issues, you must consult a doctor immediately.