For patients in South Africa

Testicular prosthesis in Turkey from South Africa: a plain guide

A testicular prosthesis restores the appearance of a testicle lost to cancer surgery, injury or torsion, or one that never developed. This page explains what the implant can and cannot do, what recovery involves, and what South African patients should plan.

What a testicular prosthesis does, and does not do

A testicular prosthesis is an implant placed in the scrotum to restore the look and weight of a testicle that has been removed or never developed. It is a reconstructive procedure. The implant does not produce sperm or testosterone, so it has no effect on fertility or hormone levels. Most implants are made of silicone, come in several sizes and are chosen to match the remaining testicle where possible. Full details are on the testicular prosthesis treatment page.

Who it suits

• Men who have had a testicle removed (orchiectomy), most often for testicular cancer, or lost one through injury or torsion
• Men born without a testicle, or with one that did not develop
• Adults in generally good health who want to restore symmetry

Placement years after removal is common and acceptable. Active infection, poor wound healing or heavy scarring in the scrotum need careful assessment first. A urological consultation comes before any booking, and includes a discussion of your expectations and of the option of having no operation at all. If you are still under follow-up for cancer, bring your oncology records and tell your own doctor you are planning this. More on related treatment is in the men’s health guide and the male genital surgery guide.

The procedure and recovery

• Local or general anaesthesia; often done as day surgery
• A small cut in the scrotum or groin, placed to keep the scar discreet
• The operation usually takes 30 to 60 minutes; dissolvable stitches close the wound
• Mild swelling, bruising and tightness at first; pain is usually mild
• Most men are back to normal daily activity within a few days; wear supportive underwear and avoid strenuous activity for the first one to two weeks
• Healing is usually complete in four to six weeks, when exercise and sexual activity can normally resume

The implant is designed to feel firm and slightly compressible, but it will not feel exactly like a natural testicle, and a little movement is normal. Possible complications include infection, the implant moving or turning, scarring, ongoing discomfort and, rarely, the implant being pushed out. Implants are designed to last many years and rarely need replacing unless there is a complication.

Planning the trip from South Africa

There are direct flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town to Istanbul of around ten hours, followed by a short domestic flight to İzmir, where treatment takes place. South Africans need an e-Visa, explained in the e-Visa guide. Turkey is only one hour ahead of South Africa, so follow-up calls are easy to arrange. How long you stay in Turkey is set out in your written treatment plan; allow time for a wound check before the long flight home.

• Take home the implant details you are given, including type, size and any implant card, and share them with your GP
• Keep the area clean and dry and follow the wound care instructions on the journey
• Contact us, or see a local doctor, promptly if you notice redness, increasing pain or fever
• South African medical schemes generally do not cover elective treatment abroad; check with your scheme, and note that travel insurance usually excludes planned treatment abroad

Follow-up and the guarantee

Follow-up continues by message and video call. Medical complications and clinically necessary revisions within one year are covered by our treatment guarantee: that treatment is carried out in İzmir at no charge, though flights and accommodation remain your own cost. It is not a promise of a particular result. The clinic facts page explains how we work, and the complaints page how problems are handled.

What we will not do

We will not book surgery before a urologist has assessed you, we will not suggest the implant restores fertility or hormones, because it does not, and we will not push you towards an operation if you are unsure. Choosing no operation is a valid choice.

Frequently asked questions

Does a testicular prosthesis affect testosterone or fertility?

No. The implant produces no hormones and no sperm. It restores appearance and symmetry only.

Can the implant be placed years after a testicle was removed?

Yes. Placing it later is common and generally safe, once the area has healed.

Will the implant feel like a natural testicle?

It is designed to match the weight and firmness, but it will not feel exactly the same.

How soon can I fly home to South Africa?

The urologist decides after checking the wound. Your treatment plan states how long to stay; most men are back to normal daily activity within a few days.

Will my medical aid cover a testicular implant in Turkey?

South African medical schemes generally do not cover elective treatment abroad, and travel insurance usually excludes planned treatment abroad. Ask your scheme directly before you book.

Start with a free online consultation. Planning the trip? Read the guide for South African patients and the e-Visa guide.