Can I Get My Chronically Inflamed Scrotal Mass Removed and Replaced with Implants?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I have the silicone/covid scrotal problem. I am currently having a bought of swollen, hard mass and fever in the sack. This problem comes and goes and usually is set off by some other health issue. In my case, common cold, food poisoning, strep throat. The swelling and discomfort last for 10-20 days. I could go on about the additional problems I have experienced but you are likely aware.The onset of problems w my injection is directly correlated with my Covid diagnosis two years ago. Prior to that I had no issues. I have been contemplating returning to the Dr in Tijuana to remove the silicone and replace with artificial testicles, ideally XL in size. Someone shared a link today about your practice and experience addressing this problem, not with derision and shame but with understanding. I would much prefer to have this procedure done in the US.

A: Thank you for your inquiry and sending your picture. One pertinent, but not completely known question, is whether the inflammatory scrotal mass involves the testicles fully or not. In other words can it be excised sufficiently without removing the testicles? Some clarity on that issue can be gleaned from an ultrasound. For now I will assume that it requires testicle/mass removals and implant replacements for complete resolution.

It is certainly an unexpected sequelae from COVID but somehow the virus has altered the immune response in some manner that what was once well tolerated has now become periodically symptomatic.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon