As with any surgery, there are risks including but not limited to allergic reaction, bleeding, infection, and postoperative pain. Bleeding in the scrotum frequently causes some bruising, but the thin and pliable scrotal tissues can occasionally allow the formation of large hematomas (blood clots), rarely requiring removal in the operating room. Serious infection is rare. Superficial skin infections around the incisions and stitches can occur and may require antibiotics or drainage in the office. Postoperative pain is usually mild and responds to ice, support, and pain medications. A rare chronic pain syndrome can occur in less than 1% of patients after vasectomy. This can be difficult to resolve, and some patients require vasectomy-reversal in an attempt to help this relationship, and before any decision is made, it is imperative that all are completely comfortable with the decision of sterility. If there is any question, it is best to delay your decision.

PREPARATION FOR SURGERY:

1. Take a hot shower 30 minutes to 1 hour before your appointment if possible. You may shave the front of the scrotum to prevent any hair from entering the incisions (or you can be shaved just prior to the procedure).
2. Avoid any aspirin or other blood thinning medicines for 7 days prior to the surgery (Tylenol is OK).
3. A jockey strap/athletic supporter/boxer briefs are important in the postoperative period, and it is best to bring one with you to the procedure to wear afterward.
4. You will need someone with you to drive you home.

POSTOPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS:

After surgery, common sense usually prevents most problems. If you are having discomfort, get off your feet, relax, and place an ice pack in the area. If you follow the following simple rules, you should recover quickly.

1. No intercourse for roughly a week.
2. You can shower the night of surgery.
3. Ice packs should be applied (usually in 20 minute cycles) throughout the day and at night for approximately 24 hours.
4. Heavy exercise should be avoided for approximately a week (including heavy lifting, jogging, bicycling, or riding lawn mowers or tractors), but walking is OK and encouraged. If you notice an increase in swelling, bruising or redness this activity should be limited until you feel better.
5. If you have any concern about infection or undue swelling, please call The Urology Clinic at (706)543-2718.
6. You will be given a pain medication such as Lortab or Percocet for use after surgery for more significant pains. For less severe discomfort, we suggest Tylenol or ibuprofen.
7. Finally, if you have any questions, doubt or hesitation, please call The Urology Clinic and one of our physicians or nurses will assist you with your questions.

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