Do Wraparound Testicle Implants Have A Risk Of Strangulating The Testicle?

Q: Dr. Eppley, The testicle implant I have was placed nearly twenty years ago. My actual testicle size is about 3.5 – 4 Cm approx….I used a simple ruler to measure them. I would like to get a large implant for both sides to improve size and also a softer and natural to the touch.

You suggested new size implants of 5.5 Cm for both sides. Are these medium or large implants?. I’m a little concerned that a 5.5 Cm wraparound might strangle my actual testicle. Is it possible? Is it better unrestricted or restricted? No dancing around in the wraparound.  I’m looking for the perfect fit physically and visually and since I have a small frame, nothing ridiculous, too big .. 🙂

Thank you so much again!

A: In answer to your testicular implant questions:

1) Most likely your natural testicle size is about 4 cm+. I assume the testicle implant is smaller, probably more in the 3 cms size range.

2) The largest standard off the shelf testicle implant is 5 cms. Most men who get testicle implants would still consider that ‘small’.  Thus either 5.5 seems reasonable for both sides as that is an upgrade but not by an unreasonable amount.

3) Wrap around testicle implants do not strangle or compress the existing testicle or the attached cord. In fact the risk with them is the opposite of your concern…having the testicle slipping out of the wrap around implant. That is why they are sutured into the implant to prevent that potential postoperative issue.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana