Varicocele Treatment in London: Expert Care for Men’s Health

Are you experiencing scrotal discomfort, swelling, or fertility concerns?

You might have a varicocele, a common condition affecting up to 15% of men. At Harley Street Andrology, we offer world-class expertise and advanced treatments to address varicoceles, helping men across London, UK, and beyond restore their health and confidence.

In this article, we’ll explain varicoceles, their impact on men’s health, and why our clinic is the premier choice for varicocele treatment in London.

What is a Varicocele?

A varicocele is an enlargement of the veins within the scrotum, often described as feeling like a “bag of worms.” It occurs when faulty valves in the testicular veins cause blood to pool, leading to dilated veins. This condition is most common on the left side due to anatomical reasons, but it can affect both sides in rare cases.

Varicoceles are found in approximately 15% of healthy men and up to 40% of men with infertility issues, making them a key focus in men’s health.

Common Symptoms of Varicocele

• Scrotal pain or discomfort: A dull, aching pain that worsens with standing or physical activity.
• Swelling or heaviness: Visible or palpable enlarged veins in the scrotum.
• Testicular atrophy: Shrinkage of the affected testicle over time.
• Fertility issues: Reduced sperm count, poor sperm quality, or increased sperm DNA fragmentation, impacting conception.

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, consulting Prof Muneer, an experienced andrology specialist in London, can ensure a timely diagnosis and effective treatment.

At Harley Street Andrology, we tailor treatment plans to your unique needs, focusing on improving comfort, fertility, and overall testicular health.

Advanced Varicocele Treatment Options at Harley Street Andrology

As a leading men’s health clinic in London, we offer cutting-edge treatments to address varicoceles with precision and care. Our options include:

1. Microsurgical Varicocelectomy

• What it is: A precise surgical procedure using an operating microscope and intraoperative micro-Doppler to tie off affected veins through a small groin incision.
• Benefits: High success rate, low complications, and improved semen parameters after 3-6 months.
• Procedure time: 30-60 minutes, typically under general anaesthesia.
• Recovery: Resume light activities in a few days, full activities in 1–2 weeks.

2. Percutaneous Embolisation

• What it is: A non-surgical procedure using a catheter and platinum coils to block affected veins, performed by an interventional radiologist.
• Benefits: Local anaesthesia.
• Recovery: Minimal recovery time.

3. Observation (Watchful Waiting)

• What it is: Monitoring symptom-free varicoceles with regular exams or ultrasounds.
• Best for: Men with mild symptoms and no immediate fertility goals.

Recurrence rates using microsurgical ligation are lowest compared to other techniques.
We will recommend the best approach based on your symptoms and health goals.

Can Varicocele Treatment Improve Fertility?

Varicocele repair can significantly enhance fertility outcomes. Research shows:

• Semen quality improves in the majority of infertile men post-treatment.
• Pregnancy rates may increase, although results vary between individuals.
• Testosterone levels often increase, and pain relief is achieved in most cases.

At Harley Street Andrology, we offer advanced diagnostics, including semen analysis, hormone assays, and DNA fragmentation tests, to guide your fertility journey.

What to Expect During Varicocele Treatment

1. Consultation: A detailed assessment of symptoms, medical history, and fertility goals.
2. Diagnosis: Physical exam and, if needed, scrotal ultrasound to confirm the varicocele.
3. Procedure: Completed in 45 minutes to 1 hour as a day case.
4. Recovery: Mild swelling or discomfort for a few days, managed with simple analgesia (such as paracetamol or ibuprofen) and cooling packs (avoiding direct skin contact).
5. Follow-Up: Regular check-ups to monitor healing and fertility outcomes.

Risks and Complications

While varicocele treatments are safe, potential risks include:

• Hydrocele (fluid buildup): Up to 7.3% of cases.
• Recurrence: 1–10%, depending on the technique used.
• Infection or bleeding: Rare, occurring in fewer than 1% of cases

Our team minimises risks through advanced techniques and meticulous post-operative care.

Cost of Varicocele Treatment in London

The cost of varicocele treatment at private clinics in London varies depending on the procedure. For a personalised quote, contact Harley Street Andrology today.