From Dr. Raymond Costabile

Vasectomy reversal is performed through a very small (less than one inch) incision in the scrotum. The procedure is done on an outpatient basis with patients leaving the surgery center the same day.

After your surgery, we strongly recommend the following guidelines to ensure a complete and healthy recovery:

Normal Activities

Most patients can get around the house for the normal activities of daily living the same day as their surgery. But you are advised to wear a scrotal support (jock strap) for a week, and decrease vigorous activity for one to two weeks after surgery. You may return to work in a within a day or so, but you should limit heavy lifting (greater than 20 pounds) or any extended walking or running.

Ice Pack

You should use an ice pack over your scrotal support for the first 48 hours after surgery, as doing so will decrease the majority of normal swelling and pain.

Over the Counter Pain Medication

Also, over-the-counter pain medicine (such as Tylenol™. Motrin™, etc.) should be sufficient to further aid the alleviation of any pain, but you should not need any pain medication beyond the first 48 hours after surgery. If necessary, your surgeon may prescribe a small dose of a mild narcotic for relief.

Ejaculating

You will need to refrain from ejaculating for 21 days after surgery.

Gauze Pads

A small amount of blood (quarter-sized) may stain the dressings for 72 hours after surgery. This problem will resolve spontaneously. For the first few days, by adding two or three gauze pads to the surgical site, under the scrotal support, you will aid the healing process and help keep your clothes clean.

Stitches

The stitches will dissolve on their own within seven to ten days. You may shower 48 hours after surgery, but you should not engage in swimming or tub baths for at least one week.

Swelling

It is normal to have a moderate amount of scrotal swelling after surgery. Contact your surgeon if the swelling is severe (larger than a moderate orange) or if you are draining a large amount of fluid (soaking several pads per day). Other reasons to contact your surgeon after vasectomy reversal include worsening pain after 48 hours, increased redness or tenderness around the incision site. or a fever of 101 or above.

Semen Analysis

A semen analysis should be obtained six weeks after surgery, and then every three months after surgery, to evaluate the effectiveness of the vasectomy reversal. In a successful vasectomy reversal, sperm will be present within about six months of surgery.