Microsurgical Vasectomy Reversal Post-Operative Instructions

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Please review the instructions below to assist in your recovery from your vasectomy reversal.

• Wear the scrotal support for at least one week following the procedure.

• Place an ice pack (a bag of frozen peas works well) inside scrotal support on top of gauze dressing – change every few hours until bedtime the day of the procedure.

• Keep the gauze and fluff dressing in place for one day.

• Relax and rest for one to two days following your procedure.  Avoid excessive walking, sitting for prolonged periods of time, and unnecessary exertion.  You will recover quicker and easier if you take it easy for these days immediately post-op.

• Avoid exercise (no running, heavy lifting, straining, etc.) for one to two weeks.  Avoid straddle activities like cycling, horseback riding for at least one month.

• 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.

• Take the antibiotic as prescribed to help prevent infection.

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

• You may shower tomorrow– pat your scrotum dry, do not rub.  Do not take a bath or go swimming for two weeks.

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

• Abstain from intercourse for two weeks.  Then, begin have frequent, regular intercourse.  This will help keep the reversal sites open and sperm traveling through the ejaculate.

• Follow-up in two weeks for a postoperative appointment.  Call to make this appointment.  We will obtain the first semen analysis evaluation at six weeks following your vasectomy reversal.

If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at my office (410)502-1718 or cell phone (443)286-2721. 

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