Sometimes, life changes in unpredictable ways. Although your decision to have a vasectomy was the right one at the time, now you and your partner have decided you’d like to make children a part of your future together.
In many cases, vasectomies can be successfully reversed through a procedure called vasovasostomy. Joshua Green, MD, of The Center for Vasectomy Reversal in Tampa, Florida, explains that during a vasovasostomy, the vas deferens (the tube that carries sperm away from the testes) is reconnected surgically.
Although it’s natural to experience some anxiety about having surgery performed on such a delicate area, according to Dr. Green, the vasectomy reversal procedure is very safe, relatively comfortable and success rates are high.
Here, Dr. Green explains what to expect before and during your procedure at The Center for Vasectomy Reversal.
Before Your Procedure
Before your vasectomy, you’ll have a consultation with Dr. Green. While patients often come into the office for their consultations, Dr. Green is also able to do phone consultations for his out-of-town patients. During this appointment, Dr. Green will explain the vasectomy reversal process and answer any questions you may have about the procedure. You’ll also be provided with some forms to fill out. After Dr. Green has reviewed your medical history, he’ll talk with you about any factors that may affect your procedure.
If you’re coming into Tampa from out of town, you can arrive either the day before or the morning of your procedure. You’ll be asked to refrain from eating or drinking anything after midnight the night before your surgery. If you take any blood-thinners (e.g., aspirin), you’ll need to discontinue those medications for a week prior to your procedure.
The Day of Your Procedure
On the day of your surgery, you’ll arrive at the surgery center at least two hours before your procedure. This gives the anesthesiologist a chance to meet with you and the nursing staff to place your IV and make sure you’re comfortable. Dr. Green will also meet with you before surgery to answer questions and do a physical examination to ensure that you’re healthy enough for the procedure.
About 30 minutes before your procedure, you’ll be taken to a pre-operative holding area where you’ll get undressed and be given a sedative to make you more comfortable. Once you’re taken to the operating room, you’ll be given the type of anesthesia that you and the anesthesiologist have decided is best for you. After that, Dr. Green says, you can expect to feel absolutely no discomfort at all.
Once you’re awake and alert, you’ll be allowed to leave the surgery center with a driver, usually about 45 minutes after surgery. Discomfort after surgery is usually very manageable, and aftercare requirements are minimal. Dr. Green will explain what to do to ensure proper healing in the days and weeks following your surgery.
If you live near or can travel to Tampa, vasectomy reversal is just a phone call away. With the help of The Center for Vasectomy Reversal, you could be on your way to an exciting new chapter in your life.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.