Vasectomy Specialist
Urology Of Greater Atlanta
A vasectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that is a highly effective method of contraception, with a success rate of over 99%. Vasectomies are also safe and simple procedures that can be performed in our office with minimal downtime and a low risk of complications.
If you are considering a vasectomy or have questions about the procedure, we invite you to schedule a consultation with one of our urologists at Urology of Greater Atlanta. Contact us today to learn more about our vasectomy services and how we can help you take control of your reproductive health.
What Is a Vasectomy?
A vasectomy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed on men as a form of permanent birth control. It involves cutting or blocking the vas deferens, which are the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra, where they mix with semen during ejaculation.
By blocking or cutting these tubes, the sperm are prevented from reaching the semen, which makes it impossible for the man to impregnate a woman. Having a vasectomy does not affect sexual drive or a man’s penis in any way. There are two main types of vasectomy procedures: the conventional vasectomy and the no-scalpel vasectomy.
What Happens During a Traditional Vasectomy?
During a traditional vasectomy, the surgeon will make one or two small incisions in the scrotum to access the vas deferens, which are the tubes that carry sperm from the testicles to the urethra.
Once the vas deferens are located, the surgeon will cut and seal them using a variety of methods, such as sutures or cauterization. This prevents sperm from entering the semen, which ultimately results in male infertility.
Before the procedure, the patient will be given a local anesthetic to numb the area and prevent any discomfort or pain during the surgery. The entire procedure typically takes about 30 minutes to complete, although the actual time may vary depending on the surgeon’s technique and the patient’s individual anatomy.
What Happens During a No-Scalpel Vasectomy?
During a no-scalpel vasectomy, the surgeon will use a small pointed instrument to puncture the skin of the scrotum, creating a tiny hole through which the vas deferens can be accessed. This is done using a small forceps-like instrument to gently stretch and lift the tissue, which allows for easy access to the vas deferens without the need for a scalpel.
Once the vas deferens are located, the surgeon will then use a variety of methods to cut and seal them, such as using clips, ties, or electrocautery. This effectively blocks the passage of sperm through the vas deferens, which prevents fertilization and ultimately leads to male infertility.
Like a traditional vasectomy, a no-scalpel vasectomy typically takes about 30 minutes to complete and is performed under local anesthesia. After the procedure, the patient will need to rest for a few days and avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting.
How Effective Is a Vasectomy in Preventing Pregnancy?
A vasectomy is considered to be one of the most effective methods of contraception available. It is estimated that the failure rate for vasectomy is less than 0.1%, which means that fewer than 1 in 1000 couples who rely on this method for birth control will experience an unintended pregnancy within the first year after the procedure.
However, it is important to note that the effectiveness of a vasectomy is not immediate. After the procedure, it can take several weeks or even months for all of the remaining sperm to be cleared from the vas deferens. During this time, it is possible for the patient to still be fertile, so it is recommended to use another form of contraception until a semen analysis confirms that there is no sperm present in the ejaculate.
Can a Vasectomy Be Reversed?
In most cases, our team of urologists at Urology of Greater Atlanta can reverse vasectomies. During a vasectomy reversal, your physician uses microsurgical techniques and instruments to reattach the two ends of the vas deferens. This is a highly complex procedure that takes several hours under general anesthesia.
The first part of the procedure allows your urologist to evaluate your sperm production. Depending on the quantity and quality of your sperm, your doctor performs either a vasovasostomy (connection of the vas to vas) or an epididymovasostomy (connection of the epididymis to vas).
If the sperm is abundant and appears healthy, your doctor performs a vasovasostomy with a high-powered surgical microscope. Clear, watery fluid with no sperm can still benefit from a vasovasostomy. If the vasectomy fluid is thick and sperm are present, or there isn’t any fluid, your doctor performs an epididymovasostomy.
Vasovasostomy (VV)
A vasovasostomy is appropriate if you have visible sperm or clear, watery fluid from the testicular end of the vas deferens during surgery. A vasovasostomy is performed with microscopic sutures to reconnect the previously severed ends of the vas deferens on both sides.
Epididymovasostomy (EV)
If there is an absence of sperm from the vas deferens during surgery, your doctor will perform an epididymovasostomy. This is an even more complex procedure, and there is a decreased chance of natural conception if EV is required.
Your physician opens and compresses your epididymal tube to collect fluid to test for sperm. Your doctor will reattach your epididymal tube to the vas deferens using a high-powered surgical microscope and microscopic sutures.
Find Out if a Vasectomy is Right for You
Looking for a reliable and experienced urology practice for your vasectomy procedure? Look no further than Urology of Greater Atlanta!
Our team of skilled urologists can provide you with top-notch care and guidance throughout your vasectomy process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about the benefits of this safe and effective form of birth control.
A vasectomy is a minimally invasive procedure that blocks your vas deferens and prevents sperm from mixing into your ejaculate, providing permanent birth control for men. The procedure does not affect the penis or sexual health but eliminates the possibility of pregnancy. Urology of Greater Atlanta offers two types of vasectomy procedures: incision and no-scalpel.
During a vasectomy, a traditional vasectomy, your physician thoroughly numbs your scrotum. They locate your vas deferens and make a small incision in your scrotum to access the tubes. Your doctor severs each vas deferens and closes the ends with a stitch or heat. When the vasectomy is complete, your doctor closes the incisions with dissolvable stitches.
During a no-scalpel vasectomy, your physician thoroughly numbs your testicles. Then, using a special device, they access your vas deferens without making an incision. Your doctor doesn't even need to use a stitch after closing and sealing your vas deferens. Both methods typically take 30 minutes with little or no complications.
A vasectomy is a very effective form of birth control. Failure rate is about 1 in 2,000. It is important that you use an alternative form of contraception until you have semen tests that show that there isn't any sperm in your ejaculate after the procedure. Some sperm can remain in your vas deferens, and you need to ejaculate several times before it is all gone.
In most cases, the team of urologists at Urology of Greater Atlanta can reverse vasectomies. During a vasectomy reversal, your physician uses microsurgical techniques and instruments to reattach the two ends of the vas deferens. This is a highly complex procedure that takes several hours under general anesthesia.
The first part of the procedure allows your urologist to evaluate your sperm production. Depending on the quantity and quality of your sperm, your doctor performs either a vasovasostomy (connection of the vas to vas) or an epididymovasostomy (connection of the epididymis to vas).
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If you no longer wish to have children, contact the top-rated urologists at Urology of Greater Atlanta, in Metro Atlanta, to book a vasectomy consultation.
