Post-Operative Instructions: Varicocelectomy

ACTIVITY
Your child needs to have limited activity for 3-4 weeks.  Avoid roughhousing, running, climbing, bike riding, swimming, straddle toys, etc.  May return to school in 2-4 days, when child is comfortable, but no sports activities or heavy lifting for 3-4 weeks.  It is important to avoid bumping the surgical area until healing has taken place.  Remember, children often feel better BEFORE healing is COMPLETE.

CARE OF INCISION
A “clear coating” is usually placed over the incision.  This type of dressing peels off by itself.  It does not require any special care other than keeping the area clean and dry.  

STITCHES
The stitches dissolve by themselves, but may not entirely dissolve for several months.

BATHING
Your child may not take a bath or shower for 48 hours.  Your child may sponge bathe.

DIET
Your child may have clear liquids such as soup, Kool-Aid, pop, juice, or other liquids for the afternoon/evening after surgery.  Your child may resume a normal diet the next day.

PAIN
Your child may have Tylenol every 4 hours if needed for discomfort.  Generally, children should not be given Tylenol more than four times in one day.

You will also receive a prescription for Codeine to use if regular Tylenol does not help to relieve the discomfort.

WHEN TO CALL THE DOCTOR
Any obvious bleeding. Some dried blood may be over the incision; this is normal
Redness or swelling around incision 
Drainage (pus) from wound

RETURN APPOINTMENT
Call our office at (248) 519-0305 for an appointment in 2 weeks.