What is Vasectomy Surgery?
Vasectomy is a procedure that stops sperm from traveling to the penis and mixing with semen during ejaculation.
Vasectomy Surgery Quick Summary
What is vasectomy surgery?
Also known commonly as male sterilization, vasectomy is a minor surgical which involves blocking of the tubes which carry sperm from the testicles to the penis. A vasectomy is 99.8% effective for preventing pregnancy.
There are two different methods of vasectomy:
1. The incision method
In this procedure, one or two small incisions are made in the skin of the scrotum. The tubes that carry the sperm (vas deferens tubes) are accessed through these incisions and are tied, blocked off with surgical clips or cauterized preventing the sperm from entering the penis. The incisions are then stitched closed.
2. No-cut or no-scalpel method
In this method, a tiny puncture hole is made in the scrotum to reach both deferens tubes which are then tied, blocked off with sutures and internally cauterized. The small puncture hole quickly heals and there is not stitches or scarring. The no-cut method reduces bleeding and lowers risks such as infection and bruising.
Where is it done?: Your vasectomy procedure will be performed at the brand-new Honeysuckle Day Hospital in Newcastle, a fully licensed and accredited day hospital.
Length of procedure: Usually 1 hr. Maybe longer depending on type and complexity encountered.
Type of anaesthesia: General anaesthesia
Day surgery or inpatient stay?: Day Surgery
Approximate cost:
Costs vary depending upon the method required.
FAQs
The vasectomy surgery consultation
Do I qualify for vasectomy surgery?
Vasectomy is an ideal solution for birth control being 99.8% effective for preventing pregnancy. However, vasectomies are designed to be permanent and if they are reversed there is no guarantee you will regain your fertility. You should only have a vasectomy if you are certain you do not ever want to get someone pregnant.
What to expect during the consultation?
During your consultation, Dr. Verma will take a medical history and will discuss with you the details of vasectomy ensuring your understanding of the procedure as well as the different methods of treatment available, the type of anesthetic and recovery time.
Vasectomy Surgery Procedure
Where will the incisions/scars be?
Depending upon the procedure, for incision vasectomy 2 small incisions in the scrotum and for no-cut vasectomy a puncture hole in the scrotum.
What type of Anaesthesia will be used?
General anaesthesia.
What are the risks and complications of vasectomy procedure?
With any surgical procedure, there are risks involved and most problems are easily treated and settle with time.
General risks of any surgery include excessive bleeding, reaction to any of the medications (including anaesthesia), infection, poor healing or excessive scarring.
The occurrence of such complications depends mainly on whether you smoke, your general health status, how your body heals, as well as your post-operative recovery. Dr. Verma will discuss all risks and complications with you during a consultation, as well as techniques and medications which can minimize risks.
What are the side effects of vasectomy surgery?
Vasectomies are meant to be permanent and a reversal may not restore fertility.
Infection, swelling, bruising, pain
Recovery after Vasectomy Surgery
Care of your vasectomys and wounds
You will be provided with detailed instructions by Finesse Cosmetic Surgery with regards to care of your sutures, wounds etc.
Downtime
In most instances, a few days rest is all that is required after a vasectomy and avoid any hard physical work or exercise for one-week post surgery. You will be able to have intercourse 2 weeks after your vasectomy, but if intercourse is uncomfortable you may need to wait a little longer.
When will you see results?
Vasectomy WILL NOT prevent pregnancy immediately. It will take approximately 3 months for your semen to be sperm-free and regular birth control will be required until testing confirms that your vasectomy is working for birth control purposes. A semen test is required after three months to confirm the success of the surgery before stopping birth control precautions.
What will be your follow up schedule?
Dr. Verma will see you one week post the operation and then organize subsequent follow-ups to test your semen. All routine follow up visits are bulk billed. Revision surgery for any complications carries an extra charge.
How long do the effects of vasectomy surgery last for?
Results from vasectomy surgery are permanent.