Microsurgical Varicocelectomy Post-Operative Instructions

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Please review the instructions below to assist in your recovery from your varicocele repair.

• You can remove the protective dressing in two days following the procedure.

• Keep the small tape strips called steri-strips in place until they fall off on their own.

• The incisions were closed with absorbable suture.  This suture dissolves on its own and does not need to be removed.   

• You may shower the day following surgery.  Do not let the water directly contact the dressing.  Pat the area dry – do not rub the incision.

• Do not submerge in water (bath, pool, swimming) until after two weeks.

• Avoid exercise (no running, heavy lifting, straining, etc.) for four weeks. 

• It is expected to have a small amount of blood stain the gauze dressing.  Sometimes the incision may separate slightly before healing.  There may be some swelling and firmness at the site of the incisions.

• You may take the narcotic medication as prescribed for discomfort or you may take over-the-counter Tylenol  as directed.  Do not take any aspirin products for two weeks following the procedure.

If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at my office (410)502-1718 or cell phone (443)286-2721.  Or if after hours, contact the urologist on call at JHH.

Karen E. Boyle, M.D.
Assistant Professor of Urology
Director, Reproductive Medicine & Surgery
The Brady Urological Institute at Greenspring Station
The Johns Hopkins Hospital

Phone:  (410)502-1718
Fax:  (410)502-7711
kboyle@jhmi.edu