Although vasectomies offer a number of benefits, many men feel anxious about the idea of getting one. Two of the most common concerns that men have are that the procedure will be painful and that recovery will take a long time. However, these concerns are rooted in myths and misconceptions about vasectomies. In reality, vasectomies are minimally invasive, generally cause only a small degree of discomfort for most patients, and require very little downtime for recovery.
Benefits of a No-Needle, No-Scalpel Vasectomy
In a traditional vasectomy, the scrotum is numbed using a needle injection and then cut open so that the vas deferens, a thin tube that connects the testes to the penis, can be cut via scalpel, tied, and sutured. Once the vas deferens is returned, the scrotum is then stitched up. This technique requires multiple incisions and needle pricks, leading to tenderness and swelling during recovery. Plus, because there are stitches involved, it can take a while to heal.
The no-needle, no-scalpel vasectomy method, on the other hand, is significantly less painful and has a much shorter recovery period. In a no-needle, no-scalpel vasectomy, local anesthesia is delivered using a “hypospray” injector, which provides immediate numbness to the area without having to use a needle. Instead of using a scalpel, a tiny puncture is made through the skin of the scrotum so that the vas deferens can be gently lifted out. The vas deferens is then cut, tied, and returned. The incision is so small that stitches and sutures are not required.
As such, during a no-needle, no-scalpel vasectomy procedure, you will typically experience very little, if any, pain or discomfort. The procedure takes about 10-30 minutes to complete on average.
What to Expect From Vasectomy Recovery
Immediately after the procedure is completed, you may feel some tenderness or mild aching in your testicles, which can be treated with pain medicine. You will have to rest for at least 24 hours after the procedure. You can use a bag of frozen peas or ice on your testicles to help soothe any aches and swelling. Just be sure to use a towel so that you’re not applying the cold pack directly to your skin.
During the early phases of recovery, you should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity. You also need to abstain from sex and ejaculation for a period of seven days. At this point, you may still experience some minor swelling and discomfort, but this should go away after the first week. The vast majority of patients are able to manage their discomfort using ice packs and over-the-counter pain medications.
Two to three days after your procedure, you should be well enough to return to work. You can start resuming normal activities after about a week.
Learn More
If you have any questions about vasectomies, including risks, side effects, and complications, schedule a consultation with Dr. Martin Bastuba of San Diego Vasectomy Center today.
