Vasectomy

A Time-Tested, Safe Procedure

While many methods of contraception are available, vasectomy is a safe, effective, and permanent form of birth control for men. Surgeons utilize their extensive experience in reproductive microsurgery and minimally invasive surgical techniques to perform your vasectomy with great precision. The procedure is performed in one of our ambulatory surgery centers unless insurance or medical reasons indicate that the vasectomy needs to be performed in the hospital.

How it Works

Vasectomy is an outpatient procedure typically performed under local anesthesia. It involves the following steps:

• A local anesthetic is administered to prevent pain during the procedure.
• Your surgeon will make a small opening in the scrotum. The sperm duct, called the vas deferens, is exposed through the opening. A 1-centimeter segment on either side of each testicle is then removed.
• The ends of the vas deferens are then cauterized and sealed with titanium clips and placed back inside the scrotum.
• A small dissolvable stitch is placed to close the hole in the scrotum. The procedure usually takes less than 20 minutes.
• Patients typically return to work in 2 days. An ice pack placed gently on the scrotum is recommended to reduce any pain or swelling following the procedure. If you do have any discomfort, acetaminophen can be taken.

Cutting the vas deferens prevents the sperm from exiting the penis during ejaculation. After a vasectomy, your body will continue to produce sperm, but they will die and be re-absorbed. A vasectomy will not noticeably affect the seminal fluid and your ejaculate will still look and feel the same. It is essential to continue using contraceptives post-vasectomy until a semen analysis is obtained to confirm that there is no sperm present in the ejaculate. This may take several months until all of the sperm left in the upper part of the vas deferens is ejaculated.

No-Scalpel Vasectomy

Our skilled surgeons are experienced in performing the no-scalpel vasectomy. Rather than using a scalpel to make incisions in the scrotum, your doctor will use a special instrument to puncture one small hole in the scrotum, which is then stretched to make an opening for the vasectomy to be performed. This no-scalpel approach is less invasive than a traditional vasectomy.

Vasectomy Recovery

Most patients can drive home themselves after a vasectomy. To alleviate any discomfort, your doctor may prescribe painkillers or recommend an ice pack and wearing an athletic supporter. You will have instructions about when you can resume work and sexual activity – typically, it is after 3 to 4 days. Try to stay off your feet for 24 hours. If you experience any disruptive side effects such as fever, chills, or increasing pain, contact your doctor.

Advantages of a Vasectomy

Men who are comfortable committing to permanent birth control often are pleased to learn that vasectomies are safe and highly effective (99.85%). A vasectomy will not affect your testosterone levels or your ability to have an erection, either. Most men are relieved to learn a vasectomy involves very little post-operative discomfort and recovery is typically quick. There are very few, if any, side effects. There is no post-op change in the patient’s libido, ejaculation, sexual pleasure, or ability to attain erections.

Can a Vasectomy be Reversed?

Yes. If you change your mind and wish restore your fertility, a vasectomy may be reversed by a microsurgeon who specializes in this procedure - with success rates as high as 90%. The delicate microsurgical procedure has helped countless couples realize their dream of having a baby – even 5, 10, or 20 years after a man’s vasectomy.