Vasectomy is a minor surgical procedure and a form of male birth control. It is a frequently chosen option for many men who no longer want to be involved with future pregnancies. In a vasectomy procedure, the vas deferens, or thin tubes that transport sperm from the testicles, are cut and sealed so sperm can no longer be carried into the ejaculate.
There are two types of vasectomy: conventional and minimally-invasive. Minimally-invasive vasectomy is sometimes referred to as a “no scalpel” vasectomy. Regardless, of technique, there is always an opening in the scrotal skin made to isolate, cut, and seal the vas deferens. This opening is quite small and heals without scar or visible defect.
Your doctor will perform a vasectomy at a local surgery center and the procedure itself takes about 15 minutes. Plan for someone to give you a ride home as you will be sedated for your comfort and to decrease procedural complications.
A small incision is made in the scrotum spanning about 2mm in length. The vas deferens is then identified on both sides. A section of each vas deferens is removed, both ends of the vas are tied with suture, and an electric current is briefly used to seal both ends of the tube. Finally, the two ends of the vas are buried in separate tissue compartments inside the scrotum to prevent them from joining together again (recanalization).
If you’re considering a vasectomy, you’ve taken the first step towards a worry-free future regarding family planning. A vasectomy is a highly effective and permanent form of contraception. To help you make an informed decision, let’s explore the two primary vasectomy procedure types offered at HTX Urology: The Traditional Vasectomy and the No-Scalpel Vasectomy.
The Traditional Vasectomy is a well-established method that involves the following aspects:
The No-Scalpel Vasectomy Procedure is another advanced technique that provides a less invasive and more comfortable experience for patients. Here are some key highlights:
100% No! Vasectomy does not change erections, sexual desire, sexual performance, or testosterone levels. You will still make semen (also known as cum or ejaculate) but there will be no sperm that will lead to pregnancy. “All Juice No Seed” is the phrase to remember.
Please make sure you let your doctor know all medications and supplements you are currently taking. As a general rule stop all supplements 5 days prior to your procedure especially fish oil and CoQ10. Definitely avoid aspirin and blood thinners – these can be restarted 3-5 days after your procedure if you are healing well.
Expect some swelling, bruising, and minor pain in the scrotum for several days after the vasectomy. To ensure proper healing, refrain from heavy lifting, exercise, and sexual intercourse for one week after the procedure.
You will be provided with a jock strap after the procedure. It is helpful to use this as needed for the first week for comfort and support.
Complications that can occur after a vasectomy include bleeding under the skin, infection at the site of incision, sperm granuloma formation, and chronic pain. These complications are fairly rare but should always be mentioned. In rare circumstances, the vas deferens can regrow and connect, a process called recanalization.
Pain can be present after vasectomy in up to 10% of patients initially, possibly due to back pressure from sperm buildup. This usually resolves after 4 weeks and can be managed with anti-inflammatory medications. It is rare but possible to have chronic pain after vasectomy that does not self-resolve. In these patients, a vasectomy reversal or cutting the nerves responsible in a small follow-up procedure may be indicated.
Definitely not. After a vasectomy, it usually takes several months for sterility to be confirmed. Alternative methods of birth control must be used until a semen sample test shows a zero sperm count.
You will receive a specimen cup and an order for post-vasectomy semen analysis to be done 3 months following your procedure. It is recommended you ejaculate about 30 times prior to submitting your sample. Of course, wait one week after the procedure before starting this “homework”.
At HTX Urology in Houston, we prioritize transparency and simplicity when it comes to the cost of a vasectomy procedure. We offer a basic pricing structure, starting with a surgical consultation fee of Two Hundred Fifty Dollars, and a cost of One Thousand Dollars for the procedure including the doctors fee, relaxing sedation and surgical center fees. ProNox™ nitrous oxide anesthesia is available at the cost of Two Hundred Dollars for patients with a higher concern of experiencing discomfort.
In many cases, health insurance plans cover the cost of a vasectomy as a form of birth control. The portion of costs of a vasectomy that is covered by healthcare insurance varies depending on the insurance carrier, healthcare network participation and the patient’s individual policy coverage.
For more information on accepted healthcare insurance providers and related benefits, patients are encouraged to check our healthcare insurance provider information page. Patients should also check with their insurance provider’s benefits administrator for the most up-to-date information on the plan’s network participation and coverage benefits.
For patients with insurance coverage from an out-of-network provider, our friendly office team members are here to assist patients with questions related to insurance billing, co-payments and pre-authorization forms. Our practice strives to work with patients as much as possible when their out-of-network insurance coverage is less comprehensive.
What Additional Factors May Affect the Cost of a Vasectomy?
While the basic cost of a vasectomy at HTX Urology in Houston is structured to be straightforward and comprehensive, it’s essential to acknowledge that individual circumstances and patient preferences may influence the final cost. There are different techniques for performing a vasectomy, and the cost might vary slightly depending on the specific technique used.
The consultation process at HTX Urology in Houston is designed to provide patients with a clear understanding of all potential or structured fees and costs related to their vasectomy procedure. A thorough review and discussion of the patient’s medical history, concerns and personal preferences will determine specific details related to the options for anesthesia, surgical technique and pre-and post-operative care requirements.
Contact Us Today!
For any additional questions regarding your Vasectomy, please contact our office today at 281-946-6462 or schedule online for your consultation today.