At what age can a child have surgery?

There is no fixed minimum age. Some procedures, such as neonatal surgery, are performed in the first hours or days of life. The decision depends on the specific condition, the child's overall health, and the urgency of the case. During the consultation, we evaluate each situation individually.

How do I know if my child needs surgery?

Most pediatric surgical conditions present visible signs such as lumps (hernias), difficulty feeding (tongue-tie), or symptoms like persistent abdominal pain. If you notice something unusual, the best step is to schedule an evaluation. Not all consultations lead to surgery — many conditions can be managed with follow-up care.

What type of anesthesia is used for children?

Most pediatric surgeries use general anesthesia, administered by a specialized pediatric anesthesiologist. Current protocols are very safe and specifically designed for children. Before surgery, the anesthesia team evaluates the child and explains the entire process to the parents.

How long is the recovery after surgery?

It depends on the type of procedure. Outpatient surgeries like inguinal hernia or tongue-tie allow the child to go home the same day, with full recovery in 1 to 2 weeks. More complex procedures may require hospitalization and a longer recovery period. In each case, I provide detailed postoperative care instructions.

Can I be with my child before and after surgery?

Yes. Parents can accompany their child during preoperative preparation and are present during recovery. We understand that parental presence is essential for the child's comfort. We keep you informed at all times during the procedure.

What should I do if my child has a surgical emergency?

If your child has symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding, or a lump that cannot be reduced, go to the nearest pediatric emergency room. You can also contact me via WhatsApp for immediate guidance. In emergencies like appendicitis or testicular torsion, time is critical.

Undescended testicle: when is it time for surgery?

Cryptorchidism, or undescended testicle, is a condition in which one or both testicles have not descended into the scrotum at birth. It is more common in premature babies and affects approximately 3% of full-term newborns.

What is cryptorchidism?

During pregnancy, the testicles form inside the abdomen and descend into the scrotum during the third trimester. When this process is not completed, the testicle remains in the abdomen or inguinal canal.

Can it come down on its own?

In many cases, the testicle descends spontaneously during the first 3 to 6 months of life. That is why pediatricians usually recommend observation during this period. However, if by 6 months the testicle has not descended, it is very unlikely to do so on its own.

When to operate?

Orchidopexy (surgery to fix the testicle in the scrotum) is recommended between 6 and 12 months of age. It should not be delayed beyond one year because:

Fertility: The heat of the abdomen can damage sperm-producing cells
Risk of torsion: An undescended testicle has a higher risk of twisting
Early detection: A testicle in the scrotum is easier to examine and detect future problems
Psychological development: Prevents the child's concerns about their body at school age

What is the surgery like?

Orchidopexy is outpatient and lasts between 30 and 60 minutes. The surgeon locates the testicle, frees it, and fixes it in the scrotum. Recovery is quick: the child can resume normal activities in 1-2 weeks.

What about the retractile testicle?

It is important to differentiate cryptorchidism from the retractile testicle, where the testicle moves up and down due to muscle reflex. The retractile testicle generally does not need surgery but should be periodically evaluated by a specialist.

If you notice that your son does not have one or both testicles in the scrotum, consult a pediatric surgeon for timely evaluation.