What is scrotoplasty surgery?
A scrotoplasty procedure is a type of plastic surgery (cosmetic or reconstructive) designed to repair, rebuild, or change the appearance of the scrotum — the layered pouch of skin that hangs below the penis and holds the testicles. Sometimes, it is also known as scrotal lift surgery or ventral phalloplasty.
This surgery may be limited to a slight tug on scrotal skin (scrotal reduction surgery) to tighten the skin or comprise a more involved area reconstruction. Depending on the extent of the procedure and its reasons, scrotoplasty may be performed by a urologist, board-certified plastic surgeon, or a team including both.
At Tower Urology, we believe that a frank conversation and providing you with information about the options available are the first steps to improving the comfort, functionality, and appearance of many scrotal conditions.
Why is a scrotoplasty performed?
Patients may choose to undergo scrotoplasty due to a variety of reasons, from congenital abnormalities or functional problems during sexual activity to insecurities due to the appearance of sagging skin, which often affects the scrotum as part of aging.
Male genital cosmetic surgery is a sensitive topic. It is a subject many may find embarrassing or feel self-conscious discussing, and it is often shrouded in secrecy. After all, a man’s genitals affect several aspects of his health and well-being, from self-image to sexuality to parenthood.
Most patients who come to Tower Urology for this procedure will fall into one of the following categories.
Scrotoplasty as cosmetic surgery
Aging, traumatic accidents, and even past surgeries can all lead to a change in the appearance of the scrotum, leaving behind sagging skin or scars. For some men, this can be a significant source of distress and embarrassment, diminishing their confidence or hindering their efforts at intimacy.
Conditions treated with a scrotoplasty
Sagging skin around the scrotum occasionally goes beyond aesthetic concerns and interferes with everyday life. Sexual activity, contact sports, other physical activities, and even fashion choices can all be affected.
Scrotoplasty is used to treat:
- Buried penis (a condition in which the penis is hidden behind the scrotal skin).
- Post-circumcision repairs (if too much or too little foreskin was removed during the original procedure).
- Scrotal lymphedema (when the scrotum swells due to lymphatic blockage).
- Complications following orchiectomy or other scrotal surgeries.
- Congenital malformations that affect the shape or size of the scrotum, such as a webbed penis.
Scrotoplasty for gender-affirming health care
Finally, many transgender men and non-binary individuals undergo scrotoplasties as part of a wider gender-affirmation treatment plan.
In these cases, the procedure is often done either as a final touch or alongside other types of masculinizing surgery. These may include:
- A vaginectomy, or the removal of almost all vaginal mucosa.
- A metoidioplasty, which reconstructs a penis from a hormonally enlarged clitoris.
- Insertion of penile or testicular implants.
Tower Urology is your best choice for scrotoplasty in Los Angeles
Scrotoplasty is a highly effective solution for improving both function and aesthetics. While the results can be transformative, we emphasize the importance of realistic expectations and diligently approaching post-operative care instructions.
We invite you to establish a care plan with Tower Urology.
Tower Urology is conveniently located for patients throughout Southern California and the Los Angeles area, including Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Culver City, Hollywood, Venice, Marina del Rey, Burbank, Glendale, and Downtown Los Angeles.
Our services include treatment for low testosterone, chronic pelvic pain, chronic testicular pain, and Peyronie’s disease.
Scrotoplasty FAQs
The ideal candidates for scrotoplasty include:
- Anyone experiencing physical discomfort or pain due to a sagging scrotum.
- Patients recovering from trauma, infection, or prior surgeries involving the genitals.
- Patients seeking cosmetic improvements for a more youthful or proportional appearance.
Candidates should be in good overall health without conditions that may complicate surgery or the healing process.
A consultation with our specialists will help you decide if scrotoplasty is right for you.
As with any surgical procedure, scrotoplasty carries some risks, including:
- Infection or bleeding at the surgical site.
- Temporary swelling or bruising.
- Rare instances of hypertrophic (raised) scarring or asymmetry requiring revision.
These are all rare and easy to manage, especially among healthy adults. However, patients with chronic underlying conditions, such as diabetes or heart problems, may face an increased risk of complications from any surgery and a longer recovery time.
At Tower Urology, our experienced surgeons take every precaution to minimize risks and ensure a smooth recovery.
A scrotoplasty is a relatively flexible procedure, and we usually tailor its steps to each patient’s goals. Assuming we are doing it by itself, it will typically involve the following steps:
- A local anesthetic is administered to numb the area.
- The region is disinfected, and the skin marked for removal.
- A few incisions are made with a scalpel near the base of the penis, close to where it meets the scrotum.
- The skin is tightened before the incision, pulling it as much as necessary.
- Finally, the wound is sutured to minimize scarring and ensure natural contours.
The surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis, allowing patients to return home the same day. However, if it is being done alongside other procedures, it may require general anesthesia and an overnight stay.
Before a scrotoplasty, we typically ask patients to:
- Refrain from using tobacco the week before.
- Steer clear of alcohol, aspirin, or blood-thinning medications for a couple of days before the day of the procedure.
- Wash the area at home with an antibacterial soap the night before and the morning of the procedure.
- Arrange for a driver to take them back home after the procedure.
If general anesthesia is planned, we may give you additional instructions. You will likely need to meet with our anesthesiologist and be asked to stop eating or drinking anything for at least six hours before the procedure.
Aftercare and recovery from scrotoplasty are generally straightforward. Most patients experience mild discomfort or swelling, which resolves within a few weeks. An over-the-counter anti-inflammatory, some ice packs, and rest can help combat this.
Some patients may need special support garments for the first week after the procedure. We will also schedule a follow-up appointment within a week.
Most patients can walk around and perform light exercise within a few days and return to their usual activity level within four to six weeks.
Scrotoplasty has a high success rate, with most patients reporting:
- Significant relief from discomfort caused by excess skin.
- Improved self-confidence and satisfaction with their appearance.
- Minimal scarring and a natural, symmetrical result.
Depending on your specific condition, alternative or complementary procedures may include:
- Penile prosthesis placement for patients with concurrent erectile dysfunction.
- Lymphedema therapy for non-surgical management of scrotal swelling.
- Liposuction or body contouring for added aesthetic improvements.
Our specialists will work with you to determine the best approach based on your goals and health needs.
