Vasectomy and Vasectomy Reversal

A vasectomy is usually performed as a day-case procedure in an outpatient setting under local anaesthesia and takes about an hour to complete.

There are 2 primary types of vasectomy:

• conventional vasectomy: the consultant makes 1 or 2 small cuts in the scrotum to access the tubes, called the vas deferens. A section of each tube is cut, and the ends are tied, sealed, or closed with surgical clips. The cuts are then closed with stitches

• no-scalpel vasectomy: this procedure uses a special instrument to make a tiny puncture hole in the scrotum to access the vas deferens. This method typically results in less bleeding, a lower risk of infection, and faster healing time than the conventional method. The holes usually heal without stitches 

At Welbeck, our consultants are experienced in both types of vasectomy. They’ll discuss the pros and cons of each type so you can make an informed decision.

Before your vasectomy, your consultant will explain the procedure in full, outlining the risks and benefits, and will also address any of your questions or concerns. At this stage, they’ll also ask you to complete a consent form with you. You’ll then be asked to change into a theatre gown and be taken to our procedure suite.

During vasectomy:

1. A local anaesthetic is administered via injection to the area where the vasectomy is to be performed. This blocks the sensation of pain, but you should expect to still feel some pushing and tugging.

2. When the anaesthetic has taken effect, your consultant will locate the vas deferens, make a small incision and isolate it (conventional method) or use a special instrument to pierce the scrotal skin and clamp the vas deferens (no-scalpel method).

3. The clamped vas deferens is then cut, and a small section is removed.

4. The separated ends are then tied or sutured and sealed (by either cauterisation, clips or stitches).

5. The ends of the vas deferens are then carefully placed back into the scrotum.

6. The incision is then closed with sutures or with skin glue (or both).

If you’d prefer to have the procedure done under sedation or general anaesthesia, this can be done in our state-of-the-art Surgery Centre.

A vasectomy reversal is usually done under a general anaesthetic, with a local anaesthetic block. This means you’ll be asleep during your procedure and won’t feel any pain. A vasectomy reversal normally takes between 2.5 and 4 hours, and you can usually go home later the same day.

During vasectomy reversal: 

1. Once your anaesthetic has taken effect, your urologist will make a small incision in your scrotum, often over your original vasectomy scar. 

2. Your surgeon will pull the vas deferens out of your scrotum, unblock the tube, and cut away any scar tissue before checking that they still contain fluid/sperm from your testicles. 

3. If your vas deferens still contains sperm, your urologist will use an operating microscope to reconnect your vas deferens using tiny stitches.

4. If there’s no sperm in your vas deferens, your urologist will perform another procedure to attach them directly to the tube that drains sperm from each testicle (epididymis).

5. Once your vasectomy reversal is complete, your vas deferens is positioned back in your scrotum and the incision is closed with dissolvable stitches.

A vasectomy and vasectomy reversal are generally safe procedures, but as with any type of surgery, there’s a small risk that complications can occur. Your urologist will explain all the possible risks and complications before your procedure and answer any questions you may have. 

Potential complications of vasectomy include: 

• pain – it’s common to experience some pain, discomfort, swelling, and bruising around your scrotal area for a week or 2 after your surgery

• infection – rarely, infection can occur around the incision site or inside your scrotum

• bleeding – rarely, excessive bleeding can occur during or after your procedure

• haematoma (a collection of blood under the skin) – can develop in your scrotal area

• sperm granuloma – this is a small, tender lump that develops when sperm leak from the cut end of the vas deferens and causes an inflammatory reaction 

• congestive epididymitis – this is inflammation or infection of the epididymis (a structure near the testicle that stores and transports sperm) 

• failure of contraception – while a vasectomy is usually highly effective, there’s a small risk that your surgery may be unsuccessful, and pregnancy may result

Potential complications of vasectomy reversal include: 

• infection

• swelling

• bruising 

• pain

• haematoma 

• scarring

• your fertility is not restored

Before your procedure, you’ll have a consultation with a consultant urologist to assess your general health and discuss your reasons for wanting to have a vasectomy or vasectomy reversal. Tell your consultant about any medical conditions or allergies you have, and any medications you take regularly. 

Your consultant will give you instructions on how to prepare for your surgery. 

These may include: 

• stopping taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, for a few days before your surgery. This is to reduce the risk of bleeding during and after your procedure

• shaving your testicles a few days before the procedure. Your consultant will give you instructions on how to do this safely 

• if you’re having a general anaesthetic, you won’t be able to eat or drink anything from midnight on the day of your surgery

• on the morning of your vasectomy, have a shower or bath and dry yourself thoroughly 

• wearing or bringing tight-fitting underwear with you on the day of your surgery, which will help provide support after the procedure

Recovering from a vasectomy or vasectomy reversal varies from person to person and depends on several factors, including your age, general health, the type of procedure you had and your individual recovery process. However, most people recover within a week or 2. 

After your vasectomy, you’ll likely have some pain, discomfort, bruising, and swelling around your scrotal area. This will resolve gradually over the next week or 2. 

Over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen or paracetamol can help manage pain if needed. You can apply ice packs (or a bag of frozen peas) wrapped in a cloth or towel to your scrotum for 20 minutes at regular intervals throughout the day to help reduce swelling. 

Rest at home for the first few days after your procedure to allow yourself to heal. Elevate your scrotum (lie down) when possible to reduce swelling and promote healing. Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and exercise for at least 1 to 2 weeks after your vasectomy.  

Depending on the type of job you do, you may be able to return to work after a few days. If you have a physically demanding or active job, you may need to take a week or 2 off work after your procedure. 

We recommend abstaining from sexual activity for about a week after your vasectomy to allow for proper healing. 

You’ll need to attend a follow-up appointment where your consultant will check your recovery a few weeks after your procedure. During this appointment, you may have a test called a semen analysis to check for sperm in your semen. Your consultant will explain what happens during this test and what the results mean. 

At Welbeck, we provide ongoing care and support throughout your treatment and recovery. If there’s anything you’re concerned about during your recovery, please get in touch for advice.

Seek immediate medical attention if you have: 

• a fever (a temperature above 38°C), chills, increased pain, redness, swelling, or green or yellow discharge from your incision

• pain that’s getting worse or doesn't improve with pain medication 

• difficulty passing urine or pain while urinating

• excessive bleeding

• a sudden increase in swelling or a lump in your scrotum

Please contact our Urology centre for pricing information.

At Welbeck, our consultant urologists are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.  

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

If you would like to schedule a consultation with a urologist, please get in touch to make an appointment. Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.