What is a varicocele?
A varicocele is an enlargement of the veins inside the scrotum. It is similar to varicose veins in the leg and most often develops on the left side. Varicoceles are usually noticed during or after puberty, and many boys have no symptoms at all.
Signs and symptoms
Typical findings include a soft 'bag of worms' feeling above the testicle, visible veins when standing, scrotal heaviness, or a dull ache after long standing, exercise, or hot weather. In some adolescents, the affected testicle may grow more slowly than the other side.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis is often made by physical examination while the child is standing. Scrotal ultrasound can confirm the varicocele and help compare the size of both testicles when the examination is unclear or when follow-up measurements are needed.
When is treatment needed?
Not every varicocele requires surgery. Observation is appropriate when the boy has no pain and both testicles are growing normally. Surgery may be recommended if there is persistent pain, a smaller testicle on the affected side, progressive asymmetry, or fertility-related concern in an older adolescent.
Treatment options
Microsurgical or open varicocele repair is used to tie off the enlarged veins and redirect blood flow through healthier veins. The goal in adolescents is to protect testicular growth, relieve pain, and reduce the risk of long-term damage.
Dr. Kallas Chemaly's approach
Dr. Kallas Chemaly evaluates varicocele with an emphasis on testicular growth over time, not just the presence of enlarged veins. Families receive a clear plan for examination, ultrasound follow-up when needed, and timely surgery only when the expected benefit is real.
References
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia: Varicocele
- Stanford Medicine Children's Health: Varicoceles in Children
- MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Varicocele
Serving families across Beirut and Mount Lebanon
Dr. Kallas Chemaly sees children from Achrafieh, Gemmayzeh, Saifi, Sodeco, Verdun, Hamra, Clemenceau, Ras Beirut, Rabieh, Mtayleb, Brummana, Beit Mery, Bikfaya, Mansourieh, Kornet Chehwan, Antelias, Dbayeh, Jounieh, Kaslik, Hazmieh, Yarze, and across Keserwan, Metn, and Baabda.
Related Conditions
When to seek urgent care
Go to the nearest emergency department if your child has: sudden painful scrotal swelling (possible testicular torsion), inability to urinate for more than 8 hours, blood in the urine with fever or severe pain, high fever (above 38.5°C) with a known urinary abnormality, or trauma to the genitals. Do not wait for a scheduled appointment — request a pediatric urology consultation immediately.