Vasectomy FAQs

This page has beem created to answer any common questions about the operation. However if we have not answered your question then you can always contact us.

How long does the operation take?

The whole operation takes about 15 minutes.

Where do you give the injection for local anaesthetic?

Local anaesthetic is infiltrated just under the skin around the vas deferens (not in the testicles as some people wrongly assume.)

Is the injection painful?

Apart from an initial tiny prick the rest of the procedure is painless.

Do the sutures have to come out?

No. They are self-dissolving and take up to 8-10 weeks to dissolve.

How soon after the operation will I be able to work?

We recommend that you should take at least two days off work. If your job is strenuous you must avoid heavy lifting for at least a week.

How soon after the operation can I have intercourse?

As soon as you feel comfortable, but you must continue with your contraception methods until you hear from the clinic that your operation has been successful.

Does the operation have any adverse effect on sexual performance?

No, on the contrary, your sexual performance is likely to be enhanced as the fear of pregnancy is removed.

Is the colour of ejaculation changed after the operation?

No, there is very little change in the colour of the semen as sperm forms very little part of it.

Is the operation 100% successful?

Vasectomy is the best method of contraception among all the methods, but none of the methods are infallible. There is a very slight chance of failure due to accessory vas on the recanalization of the cut tube, resulting in the flow of sperm and a second operation may be required.

Can the operation be reversed?

Yes. However, the success of a vasectomy reversal cannot be guaranteed and the cost of such an operation is high. Unless you are 100% certain of having a vasectomy we advise against it.

Cancer of the prostrate and testes

The research work up until now has showed that there is no link of these cancers with vasectomy operations but we are unable to comment about the future.

Are you able to perform vasectomies using the No Scalpel Method?

Yes we can offer our patients this option but the preferred method is the "sutureless vasectomy". The surgeon can provide greater clarity on these two vasectomy methods at the consultation.