Vasectomy

Vasectomy is an operation performed on a man to cause permanent contraception. It works by blocking the transport of sperm from the testicles. Semen is still ejaculated and appears normal, but it will not contain sperm. Vasectomy does not affect a man’s sex drive, hormones or sexual performance. It can, in fact, increase sexual drive.

Due to the simplicity of the surgery, a vasectomy usually takes less than 20 minutes to complete. After a very short recovery at the doctor’s office, the patient is sent home to rest. Because the procedure is minimally invasive, many vasectomy patients find that they can return to work within 2 or 3 days and resume their typical lifestyle routines within a week, and do so with minimal discomfort.

It is quite confusing when looking at the information available relating to vasectomy methods but in summary, occluding and sealing the ends (dividing, tying off and diathermy) is the most effective approach. Leaving the ends loose may reduce the chances of a collection of sperm forming at about 4 weeks. Scalpel-free vasectomy is really the same as conventional vasectomy except that an instrument is used that makes 2 small holes at the site of the vas which is slightly smaller than some conventional incisions. Scrotal skin heals very well as it is the only skin on the body that does not pull apart during healing and scar is hardly noticeable.

Vasectomy is a permanent procedure that is highly effective. Failure rates are generally below 1%. Complying with post-vasectomy instructions (which includes completing a lab test at-home 12 weeks postoperatively to test your sperm count) will assure an effective treatment has been performed by our expert physician.