Last updated 3 days ago
Although a vasectomy is intended to be a form of permanent birth control, thousands of men undergo vasectomy reversals every year because they change their minds about starting or growing a family. Before you undergo a vasectomy reversal, it’s a good idea to discuss your concerns and questions with the surgeon. The surgeon can explain exactly what’s involved with the procedure and what you can expect from the recovery process. In general, the recovery from a vasectomy reversal is rapid and the discomfort is minimal.
Alleviating Discomfort
Most men who have undergone a vasectomy reversal report experiencing only mild to moderate discomfort. The discomfort and swelling typically lasts about 24 to 48 hours. Usually, prescription pain relievers are not required. Instead, your surgeon is likely to recommend over-the-counter acetaminophen. You should also apply a cold pack to the scrotum area for about 20 minutes at a time on the first day. After applying the cold pack, leave it off for about 20 minutes before re-applying it.
Limiting Activities
Follow your vasectomy reversal surgeon’s post-operative instructions with regard to your activity level. Most men find that they can return to light activities and work within a week. Strenuous activities and work that requires heavy physical labor may need to be delayed for two to three weeks. It’s critical to avoid any sexual activity for three weeks after your vasectomy reversal. Additionally, your surgeon will advise you to wear a jockstrap for four weeks to support the area and facilitate healing.
Following Up with the Surgeon
Your surgeon will let you know when you should return to the office for a follow-up visit. In addition to a follow-up procedure the day after the surgery to remove the drains, you can expect to visit the office in about two to three months for a semen analysis. It can take between two to 15 months for sperm to reappear after the surgery.
If you have any questions about an upcoming procedure, contact the Center for Vasectomy Reversal at (941) 462-4647. Dr. Joshua Green remains dedicated to providing the utmost in patient care and education, and in helping each patient make an informed decision. Our office is conveniently located in Sarasota, FL.
Last updated 16 days ago
During a vasectomy reversal, the surgeon reconnects tubes to allow sperm to combine with the semen. Before you undergo the surgery, speak with the vasectomy reversal surgeon to discuss what you can expect afterward. Follow the surgeon’s post-op instructions carefully to ensure a speedy and healthy recovery. Here are some general guidelines for recovery:
Reducing Activity
Most men can return to light activities the same day of surgery; however, you should follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding your activity level. Refrain from vigorous activities for at least one to two weeks, and do not lift any heavy objects during this time. Assuming that you have a job that is not physically demanding, you can expect to return to work within a few days.
Wearing a Scrotal Support
Wear a scrotal support for at least a week. Your doctor may recommend that you wear it for several weeks. The supporter limits movement of the area, keeps the bandages in place, and applies pressure to reduce swelling. Wear the supporter all day and night, and take it off when bathing.
Applying an Ice Pack
For the first 48 hours after your vasectomy reversal, periodically apply an ice pack to the scrotal support. This helps suppress the swelling and alleviate discomfort. Your vasectomy reversal surgeon will tell you how long to keep the ice pack on the area and how often to use it. Follow these instructions carefully to avoid freezing the tissues.
Alleviating Discomfort
Discomfort after a vasectomy reversal generally isn’t severe. Still, you may experience some cramping. Your surgeon might prescribe a pain reliever or recommend an over-the-counter remedy to help you feel more comfortable.
Refraining from Sexual Activity
After a vasectomy reversal, it’s critical to avoid all sexual activity and ejaculation for two to four weeks. Your surgeon will let you know when you may resume sexual activities.
Learn more about how to achieve a speedy recovery from your vasectomy reversal by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Joshua Green of the Center For Vasectomy Reversal. Contact us at (941) 225-2317 or visit our website to learn more about the procedure.
Last updated 2 months ago
If you have had a vasectomy and your partner also has fertility issues, in-vitro fertilization (IVF) may be the best answer for your family planning goals. Because IVF involves the growth of embryos in a lab, a sperm sample can be acquired surgically rather than through the reversal of a previous vasectomy.
This video explains details of the IVF procedure, which begins with the removal of eggs from the mother’s ovaries. They are incubated with the sperm sample, and then the most viable embryos are implanted in the uterus. The success of the procedure varies depending on the woman’s age and current health.
You can explore IVF as part of your post-vasectomy infertility treatment by scheduling a consultation with the Center for Vasectomy Reversal in Sarasota. Connect with us today by calling (941) 961-4581 or visiting us online.
Last updated 2 months ago
Vasectomy reversal is an advanced, minimally-invasive procedure that repairs the vas to restore male fertility after a vasectomy. The reversal procedure is most effective when it takes place within 10 years of the initial vasectomy surgery, but the effectiveness of treatment does vary from patient to patient due to other factors. Continue reading to find out what happens during a vasectomy reversal procedure.
Types of Vasectomy Reversals
There are two types of vasectomy reversal procedures that your doctor will discuss with you during your consultation. The best one will be selected based on the presence or absence of blockages in the epididymis. When a blockage is not present, a vaso-vasostomy will be performed. This surgery has a slightly higher success rate than vaso-epididymostomy. Your surgeon may not actually determine the proper procedure until the vasectomy site is viewed under the microscope during your surgery. Both procedures may be performed under local anesthesia, but most patients opt for some type of IV sedation because it is difficult to sit still for the two to four hour surgery.
Vaso-Vasostomy
The vaso-vasostomy begins with the removal of scar tissue at the vasectomy site. The cut ends of the vas are re-sewn together and heal fairly quickly. This procedure is only used if there is sperm or free-flowing clear liquid present after the scar tissue is cut.
Vaso-Epididymostomy
If there is thick or pasty fluid present, there may be a blockage preventing the flow of sperm. In this case, a vaso-epididymostomy is the best option. During this procedure, the vas is connected to a tube in the most distal part of the epididymis. This type of connection bypasses any blockages to increase the chances of successful conception.
As you consider vasectomy reversal, you should consult Dr. Joshua Green at the Center for Vasectomy Reversal. Our Sarasota practice treats patients from around the country, so don’t hesitate to call us at (941) 961-4581. You can also visit our website for an appointment.
Last updated 2 months ago
If your family planning goals have changed after you have had a vasectomy, you may be considering vasectomy reversal surgery. This procedure can provide you with a new opportunity in your fertility with a high success rate and minimal recovery time. As you get ready for your surgery, you will want to take these steps to ensure your safety and comfort throughout treatment.
Talk to Your Doctor about Pre-Surgical Tests
Before you determine whether or not a vasectomy reversal is right for you, you should make sure that you have healthy sperm. A simple biopsy can reveal the health of your sperm to help you see if the procedure is worth it. You might also encourage your partner to see a fertility specialist to learn if she is healthy and able to conceive. If IVF is presented as a possible treatment for your partner, microscopic epididymal sperm aspiration may be a better alternative to vasectomy reversal.
Stop Taking Blood-Thinning Medications
It is important to temporarily discontinue use of any blood-thinning medication prior to any surgical procedure. These medications include aspirin and other over-the-counter pain relievers. If you smoke, you should quit at least three weeks before your surgery to give your immune system a boost and lower the risk of post-surgical infections.
Make Arrangements for the Day of Surgery
On the day of your surgery, you should wear comfortable clothing and bring an athletic supporter to wear once the procedure is over. You will need to have a friend or family member drive you home, so plan ahead for these arrangements.
Dr. Joshua Green at the Center for Vasectomy Reversal is a national leader in vasectomy reversal procedures, and he can help you fulfill your family planning goals at our Sarasota practice. Whether you are a local patient or traveling for your care, Dr. Green will provide you with compassionate and accurate care through every step of the process. To schedule your first consultation in our office, visit our website or call (941) 961-4581.
