A hydrocele normally repairs itself within a few months after birth. Surgery is recommended if the hydrocele is still present after a baby is 12 to 18 months old. Hydrocele repair is also done for hydroceles that continue to get larger.
Complications may occur with any surgery. These include:
Rarely, a child may develop another hydrocele that requires more surgery. Most people recover fully after surgery.
If surgery is done, a follow-up visit will be scheduled with the surgeon. If surgery is not needed, the size of the hydrocele should be monitored. If the hydrocele contiunes to get larger, surgery may be necessary.