Georgia No Scalpel Vasectomy Overview: Thank you for your interest in our practice regarding a no scalpel vasectomy. Dr. McHugh is Georgia’s most experienced board certified urologist performing both vasectomies and microscopic vasectomy reversals.
Although a vasectomy can be performed most any day of the week, our most common day is Friday. Scheduling a vasectomy is usually not a problem, as Friday is reserved all most exclusively for performing vasectomies. Dr. McHugh performs between 20-30 vasectomy a month, several hundred a year, and has done thousands during his career.
We accept most insurances and your cost is based on the allowable for your particular plan. We will assist in you estimating that amount before the procedure.
Our all-inclusive price for self pay patients is $950.00. (Consultation and the procedure.) For self pay patients preferring conscious sedation in our on site accredited surgery center, the all inclusive fee is $1300.00. This is done with a board certified anesthesiologist.
For patients who may prefer some level of anesthesia we offer affordable anesthesia which is matched to the level of anxiety. The “No I.V.” nitrous is recommended for patients that have some anxiousness but don’t feel they have to be asleep.
Conscious sedation is recommended for patients with significant anxiety about having a vasectomy. The anesthesia option is available on Thursdays.
We have certified anesthesia, an accredited surgery center and can assure you a safe, pain free and anxiety free experience. The level of anxiety and the anesthesia chosen is determined by consultation with each patient.
Our goal is to offer anesthesia that targeted to you. Our fee for this service is billed directly to the patient and priced to encourage the patient who feels he needs it can have it at reasonable cost.
A member of our team will be reaching out to you to answer any questions you may have and to schedule, if you like, a vasectomy consultation.
Thank you! We look forward to participating in your care.
Posted on
Daniel Brown
2026-04-16
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Dr. McHugh is a pro. He knows his craft well. Everyone at his office was so professional. Everything was straightforward with no hassle. The vasectomy surgery was a snap (pun intended). And actually almost no pain or complication. I had a hernia surgery two years ago that was so much worse. Didn't post pictures for obvious reasons.
Can't recommend him more.
Posted on
Casey Shoemate
2026-04-13
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We are thankful we found Dr McHugh when we did to do my husband’s vasectomy reversal. He is a wonderful doctor and Nurse Lacey was such a blessing. It’s obvious Dr McHugh is experienced, loves his family, and wants to give other families their best chance.
I wish it wasn’t so hard to find a good doctor to help bring a life into the world and I feel sad for those who have had to go through what I have to find one.
Posted on
Stephen Ferrell
2026-04-12
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great staff! They make the experience as easy as possible!
Posted on
Garrick Richards
2026-04-10
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Best medical experience I have had! The team is amazing and I can confirm why they are highly recommended!! Thanks Megan, Daphne and staff!! My wife is a practice administrator and she was seriously considering poaching some of y’all!! Lol!
Posted on
Joseph Tapley
2026-04-06
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Excellent experience. Very nice people with great knowledge and concern for your needs. My recovery has been great with no issues. Thanks again team. 😎😎😎
Posted on
Jeff McHugh
2026-03-27
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I cannot recommend Dr. McHugh and his team highly enough. From the moment I checked in to the moment I walked out the door, the entire process was seamless and professional.
The customer service was incredible; the administrative staff made the paperwork easy, and the nurses were absolutely fantastic—personable, reassuring, and clearly experts at what they do.
Dr. McHugh himself was phenomenal. He talked me through the steps, and the procedure was over in a surprisingly short amount of time. I felt zero stress throughout the visit. If you’re considering this procedure, this is the place to go. I’m extremely grateful for the top-tier care I received! -TM
Posted on
Jacob Born
2026-03-20
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
The experience was great. This was something I dreaded doing but these guys made the experience a breeze. I will recommend to anyone who will listen!
Posted on
Casey King
2026-03-16
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Dr McHugh and his staff did an amazing job with me and my wife during my reversal. They treated us so well from the beginning to the end. We went to Dr. McHugh because he was the most experienced and happens to be 5 hours away. I’m day 4 right now and am doing well. I will update if the surgery was successful. If the Lord allows we may have another baby. Also, I love the fact that if I have questions I can ask the Dr himself or his lovely staff.
Posted on
Mike
2026-03-13
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
The team was great. I was a little nervous going in, but they made the process super easy. Very nice people and really appreciated them. Thank you all!
Posted on
David Hodges
2026-03-02
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Vasectomies and reversals performed by Dr. McHugh since 2020!
Georgia No Scalpel Vasectomy FAQ : Thank you for your interest in our practice regarding a no scalpel vasectomy.
Notably, Dr. McHugh is one of the southeast’s most experienced board certified urologist performing both vasectomies and microscopic vasectomy reversals.
Georgia No Scalpel Vasectomy FAQ
Scheduling a vasectomy is usually not a problem, as Thursdays are reserved almost exclusively for performing vasectomies and microscopic vasectomy reversals. (Staffing and anesthesia are available on Thursday for the pain-free anesthesia options we offer.)
Dr. McHugh performs between around vasectomies a month, several hundred a year, and has done thousands during his career. Over 2200 vasectomies and vasectomy revesals have been performed since 2020!
We accept most insurances and your cost is based on the allowable for your particular plan. We will assist in you estimating your out of pocket expenses before the procedure.
For patients who may prefer some level of anesthesia we offer affordable anesthesia which is matched to your level of anxiety. “No I.V. nitrous” is recommended for patients that have some anxiousness, but don’t feel they have to be completely asleep.
We have certified anesthesia, an accredited surgery center and can assure you a safe, pain free and anxiety free experience. The level of anxiety and the anesthesia chosen is determined by consultation with each patient.
Our goal is to offer anesthesia that targeted to you. Our fee for this service is billed directly to the patient and priced to encourage the patient who feels he needs it can have it at reasonable cost.
Complete the contact form and a member of our team will be reaching out to you. Consequently, we can answer any questions you may have and to schedule, if you like, a vasectomy consultation.
Thank you! We look forward to participating in your care.
Posted on
Daniel Brown
2026-04-16
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Dr. McHugh is a pro. He knows his craft well. Everyone at his office was so professional. Everything was straightforward with no hassle. The vasectomy surgery was a snap (pun intended). And actually almost no pain or complication. I had a hernia surgery two years ago that was so much worse. Didn't post pictures for obvious reasons.
Can't recommend him more.
Posted on
Casey Shoemate
2026-04-13
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We are thankful we found Dr McHugh when we did to do my husband’s vasectomy reversal. He is a wonderful doctor and Nurse Lacey was such a blessing. It’s obvious Dr McHugh is experienced, loves his family, and wants to give other families their best chance.
I wish it wasn’t so hard to find a good doctor to help bring a life into the world and I feel sad for those who have had to go through what I have to find one.
Posted on
Stephen Ferrell
2026-04-12
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great staff! They make the experience as easy as possible!
Posted on
Garrick Richards
2026-04-10
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Best medical experience I have had! The team is amazing and I can confirm why they are highly recommended!! Thanks Megan, Daphne and staff!! My wife is a practice administrator and she was seriously considering poaching some of y’all!! Lol!
Posted on
Joseph Tapley
2026-04-06
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Excellent experience. Very nice people with great knowledge and concern for your needs. My recovery has been great with no issues. Thanks again team. 😎😎😎
Posted on
Jeff McHugh
2026-03-27
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I cannot recommend Dr. McHugh and his team highly enough. From the moment I checked in to the moment I walked out the door, the entire process was seamless and professional.
The customer service was incredible; the administrative staff made the paperwork easy, and the nurses were absolutely fantastic—personable, reassuring, and clearly experts at what they do.
Dr. McHugh himself was phenomenal. He talked me through the steps, and the procedure was over in a surprisingly short amount of time. I felt zero stress throughout the visit. If you’re considering this procedure, this is the place to go. I’m extremely grateful for the top-tier care I received! -TM
Posted on
Jacob Born
2026-03-20
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
The experience was great. This was something I dreaded doing but these guys made the experience a breeze. I will recommend to anyone who will listen!
Posted on
Casey King
2026-03-16
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Dr McHugh and his staff did an amazing job with me and my wife during my reversal. They treated us so well from the beginning to the end. We went to Dr. McHugh because he was the most experienced and happens to be 5 hours away. I’m day 4 right now and am doing well. I will update if the surgery was successful. If the Lord allows we may have another baby. Also, I love the fact that if I have questions I can ask the Dr himself or his lovely staff.
Posted on
Mike
2026-03-13
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
The team was great. I was a little nervous going in, but they made the process super easy. Very nice people and really appreciated them. Thank you all!
Posted on
David Hodges
2026-03-02
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Cleveland Ga No Scalpel Vasectomy: Dr. McHugh has performed several thousand vasectomies over his career in Northeast Georgia.
We utilize the No Scalpel technique and whether we perform your procedure in our office with oral and local sedation or anesthesia (Nitrous/Conscious Sedation) in our Accredited Surgery Center, you can rest assured we will do everything we can to make your procedure pain free.
For vasectomy, Dr. McHugh has a top 5% badge, because he treated more vasectomy patients than 95% of similar doctors nationwide.
-Amino.com, Inc.
No scalpel vasectomy: Introducing “Affordable and Targeted Vasectomy Anesthesia.”
Cleveland, Ga. No Scalpel Vasectomy: At your pre vasectomy consultation we will discuss your particular level of anxiety, as a result we can then match you to the right anesthesia. This facilitates as pain free experience as possible at an affordable cost.
Georgia No Scalpel Vasectomy: A vasectomy is a common surgical procedure performed in our office for men looking for permanent birth control. In this procedure, a portion of the duct that carries sperm is removed. Every year more than one-half million men in the United States have this minor surgery. Vasectomy is safe, highly effective, and has no impact on erection or sexual performance.
A scalpel free vasectomy is not very different from a routine vasectomy. In a scalpel-free vasectomy, the skin is opened using a razor-sharp clamp rather than a surgical blade. A length of each sperm duct is still removed, but the incision smaller.
Sperm are produced in the testicles. Sperm ducts then carry the sperm to mix with fluids from the seminal vesicle and the prostate to form semen. The semen passes through the urethra and is ejaculated during sexual intercourse. A Vasectomy prevents sperm from mixing with semen by blocking both sperm ducts.
Sperm continue to be produced in the testicles. The sperm, however, make it only as far as the new point of blockage in the sperm duct. At this point, the sperm is reabsorbed. As a result, there are no sperm in the semen that is ejaculated at the time of intercourse.
How will my vasectomy affect me?
The prostate and seminal vesicles continue to produce fluids that are ejaculated. In fact, the amount of fluid ejaculated decreases only about 5% after a vasectomy. In terms of sexual performance, vasectomy has no negative effects—erection and male hormone levels remain the same.
What are the benefits of a vasectomy?
The prostate and seminal vesicles continue to produce fluids that are ejaculated. In fact, the amount of fluid ejaculated decreases only about 5% after a vasectomy. In terms of sexual performance, vasectomy has no negative effects. Erections and male hormone levels remain the same.
Are there any complications?
There are no known long-term complications after a vasectomy. About 60%-70% of men develop anti-sperm antibodies in their blood, which is a harmless allergy to your own sperm. There is no evidence that these antibodies have a major effect on other organ systems.
How should I prepare for a vasectomy?
A vasectomy is usually performed in our office or in our surgery center on an outpatient basis. Since you will receive a local anesthetic and most likely some medication to help you relax, we will require that you arrange to have someone drive you home afterward. You may also be asked to bring an athletic supporter with you.
How long does it take?
A vasectomy only takes about 15-30 minutes. First, a local anesthetic will be applied to your scrotal area. You may also be given a mild sedative to help you relax. Then either one or two small incisions (cuts) are made in the scrotum. These incisions are so small that stitches may not be needed. If stitches are used, they will dissolve by themselves.
After making the incisions, the doctor will cut the sperm ducts, removing about one-half inch to one inch of each duct. This is done to reduce the possibility of the sperm ducts rejoining.
The most common side effects of vasectomy are minor bleeding (enough to stain the bandage), some discomfort, and mild swelling in the area of the incision. These are not unusual and should stop within 72 hours. Occasionally, the skin of the scrotum and base of the penis turn black and blue. This lasts only a few days, and will disappear without treatment.
The most commonly reported complication is mild discomfort in the testicles that usually improves with medication, warm soaks, and by elevating the scrotum. Infrequently, a patient may experience pain around the testicles up to 20 years after the vasectomy. This is a harmless reaction and usually responds to heat and medication.
Very rarely, a small blood vessel may enter the scrotum and form a clot. A small clot will probably dissolve after time, but a large one can be painful and usually requires reopening of the scrotum for drainage. This procedure will require hospitalization and usually a general anesthetic.
Will I miss any days at work?
Most men return to work after 2 days. Some men choose to recuperate over a weekend so they don’t miss any work. Your doctor will tell you to avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for the first 3 days after your vasectomy.
Is the procedure always successful?
Semen is sperm-free in almost all men following a vasectomy. Of every 1000 men who have a vasectomy, less than 2 continue to have sperm in their semen. It is very rare for the sperm ducts not to seal completely. In the event that they do not, you may need a second vasectomy.
When will I be able to return to sexual activity?
You should postpone sexual activity for 72 hours. Because sperm can survive for 6 months or more, you will be asked to bring two specimens of ejaculate for examination under a microscope to your follow-up visit. Unprotected intercourse should not take place until sterility is assured, so continue to use some form of birth control.
We suggest a minimum of 20 ejaculations before the first semen analysis six-weeks following your procedure. We also recommend that a second analysis eight-weeks following your procedure to assure the absence of sperm before you resume unprotected intercourse.
Will masculinity be affected?
No. Vasectomy is not the same thing as castration, and sterility does not mean impotence. The hormones that affect masculinity (growth of facial hair, having a deep voice, sex drive) are still made in the testicles after a vasectomy. These hormones will continue to flow throughout the body in the bloodstream.
Vasectomy Reversal-What if I change my mind?
A vasectomy should be considered to be a permanent procedure. It is not for men who plan to have children in the future. However, if a couple’s situation changes, it is possible to reverse this procedure.
We do perform vasectomy reversals in our surgical facility. If interested in a microscopic vasectomy reversal, Dr. McHugh is one of the most experienced reversal urologists in the southeast.
Call us at 770-535-0000 or use the contact form to schedule your free reversal consultation. Visit Dr. McHugh’s reversal website Gavasectomyreversal.com
“I was very pleased with the entire process. Dr. McHugh fully educated me on the vasectomy and then performed the procedure perfectly. He made the entire experience easy and painless.”
-W.W. Gainesvile, Ga.
Considering a vasectomy? You can ask a question here or schedule a consultation for a no scalpel vasectomy 24/7. We have fair self-pay pricing, options for patients with high deductibles, in office local anesthesia with oral pre-medication, and for the patient who prefers it, Nitrous gas or I.V. general anesthesia in our accredited ambulatory urological surgery center.
Vasectomy Contact Form: Try it, we will respond promptly…even on weekends!
Posted on
Daniel Brown
2026-04-16
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Dr. McHugh is a pro. He knows his craft well. Everyone at his office was so professional. Everything was straightforward with no hassle. The vasectomy surgery was a snap (pun intended). And actually almost no pain or complication. I had a hernia surgery two years ago that was so much worse. Didn't post pictures for obvious reasons.
Can't recommend him more.
Posted on
Casey Shoemate
2026-04-13
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We are thankful we found Dr McHugh when we did to do my husband’s vasectomy reversal. He is a wonderful doctor and Nurse Lacey was such a blessing. It’s obvious Dr McHugh is experienced, loves his family, and wants to give other families their best chance.
I wish it wasn’t so hard to find a good doctor to help bring a life into the world and I feel sad for those who have had to go through what I have to find one.
Posted on
Stephen Ferrell
2026-04-12
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great staff! They make the experience as easy as possible!
Posted on
Garrick Richards
2026-04-10
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Best medical experience I have had! The team is amazing and I can confirm why they are highly recommended!! Thanks Megan, Daphne and staff!! My wife is a practice administrator and she was seriously considering poaching some of y’all!! Lol!
Posted on
Joseph Tapley
2026-04-06
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Excellent experience. Very nice people with great knowledge and concern for your needs. My recovery has been great with no issues. Thanks again team. 😎😎😎
Posted on
Jeff McHugh
2026-03-27
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I cannot recommend Dr. McHugh and his team highly enough. From the moment I checked in to the moment I walked out the door, the entire process was seamless and professional.
The customer service was incredible; the administrative staff made the paperwork easy, and the nurses were absolutely fantastic—personable, reassuring, and clearly experts at what they do.
Dr. McHugh himself was phenomenal. He talked me through the steps, and the procedure was over in a surprisingly short amount of time. I felt zero stress throughout the visit. If you’re considering this procedure, this is the place to go. I’m extremely grateful for the top-tier care I received! -TM
Posted on
Jacob Born
2026-03-20
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
The experience was great. This was something I dreaded doing but these guys made the experience a breeze. I will recommend to anyone who will listen!
Posted on
Casey King
2026-03-16
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Dr McHugh and his staff did an amazing job with me and my wife during my reversal. They treated us so well from the beginning to the end. We went to Dr. McHugh because he was the most experienced and happens to be 5 hours away. I’m day 4 right now and am doing well. I will update if the surgery was successful. If the Lord allows we may have another baby. Also, I love the fact that if I have questions I can ask the Dr himself or his lovely staff.
Posted on
Mike
2026-03-13
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
The team was great. I was a little nervous going in, but they made the process super easy. Very nice people and really appreciated them. Thank you all!
Posted on
David Hodges
2026-03-02
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Vasectomies and Reversals Performed by Dr. McHugh Since 2020!
Most casual observers will think of the North Star as the brightest star, in fact it is Sirius. (The North Star is known for its dependable location in the sky, not its brightness.)
According to Greek mythology, Sirius was the dog of the hunter Orion, and the ancient Romans placed the star in the constellation Canis Major (Latin for “Greater Dog”). The Romans thus referred to the sweltering period when the rising of the sun and Sirius converged as the “dies caniculares” or “days of the dog star.”
By the 1500s, the English world began to call the same summertime point on the astronomical calendar as the “dog days.”
A vasectomy takes about 15 minutes and I do them through a single “size of a grain of rice” opening.
A reversal, in my hands, takes about two hours and more commonly uses two incisions (3/4 inch on each side of the upper scrotum over the course of the vas deferens) and requires an operating microscope and microscopic suture.
I tell patients that it is a minor procedure, minimal blood loss or other complications, but it does take two hours to do. Bruising and some scrotal swelling is more common and there is a longer recovery period.
So…to the question…same structure (the vas deferens) different procedure.
Atlanta to Gainesville Vasectomy : No Pain – More Gain!!!
Fair Self Pay Pricing.
Pre-Vasectomy medication for pain and anxiety.
Dr. McHugh is one of Georgia’s most experienced urologists performing vasectomies and microscopic vasectomy reversals.
Enhanced Nitrous or Conscious sedation in our Ambulatory Surgery Center with an anesthesiologist- i.e No Pain/No Anxiousness/A pleasant procedure!
In most cases (whether you have insurance or not) the cost is the same as if you had a vasectomy in an office setting.
How is it the same price? We waive the facility fees for vasectomies.
This means-No Pain – To you or…your pocketbook.
Oh yeah… Dr. McHugh’s free Ebook on Vasectomy-Click here.
Anesthesia in an accredited surgery center, no pain vasectomy, essentially the same price as in an office, and 30 years of experience makes the decision to drive 45 minutes to Gainesville for a vasectomy…a no brainer.
Contact us or use the form below to make an appointment 24/7. A pre-vasectomy consultation is preferred, however to make the Atlanta to Gainesville vasectomy even easier, ask about the same day consult/vasectomy option with our vasectomy coordinator.
No Scalpel Vasectomy 101 : All you need to know to help make your decision and scheduling a consultation. Dr. McHugh is one of the southeast’s most experienced vasectomy and microscopic vasectomy reversal urologists.
No Scalpel Vasectomy 101 : Dr. McHugh is Georgia’s most experienced no scalpel vasectomy and microscopic vasectomy reversal urologist. Procedures are performed in his practice owned, on-site and accredited urological surgery center.
Affordable and Targeted Anesthesia That Matches Your Level of Anxiety.
If you are considering a vasectomy, we can make it easy. Just contact our office using the email form below or call 770-535-0000. We will do our best to make the process and the procedure…as “painless” as possible!
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Dr. McHugh is a pro. He knows his craft well. Everyone at his office was so professional. Everything was straightforward with no hassle. The vasectomy surgery was a snap (pun intended). And actually almost no pain or complication. I had a hernia surgery two years ago that was so much worse. Didn't post pictures for obvious reasons.
Can't recommend him more.
Posted on
Casey Shoemate
2026-04-13
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We are thankful we found Dr McHugh when we did to do my husband’s vasectomy reversal. He is a wonderful doctor and Nurse Lacey was such a blessing. It’s obvious Dr McHugh is experienced, loves his family, and wants to give other families their best chance.
I wish it wasn’t so hard to find a good doctor to help bring a life into the world and I feel sad for those who have had to go through what I have to find one.
Posted on
Stephen Ferrell
2026-04-12
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great staff! They make the experience as easy as possible!
Posted on
Garrick Richards
2026-04-10
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Best medical experience I have had! The team is amazing and I can confirm why they are highly recommended!! Thanks Megan, Daphne and staff!! My wife is a practice administrator and she was seriously considering poaching some of y’all!! Lol!
Posted on
Joseph Tapley
2026-04-06
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Excellent experience. Very nice people with great knowledge and concern for your needs. My recovery has been great with no issues. Thanks again team. 😎😎😎
Posted on
Jeff McHugh
2026-03-27
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I cannot recommend Dr. McHugh and his team highly enough. From the moment I checked in to the moment I walked out the door, the entire process was seamless and professional.
The customer service was incredible; the administrative staff made the paperwork easy, and the nurses were absolutely fantastic—personable, reassuring, and clearly experts at what they do.
Dr. McHugh himself was phenomenal. He talked me through the steps, and the procedure was over in a surprisingly short amount of time. I felt zero stress throughout the visit. If you’re considering this procedure, this is the place to go. I’m extremely grateful for the top-tier care I received! -TM
Posted on
Jacob Born
2026-03-20
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
The experience was great. This was something I dreaded doing but these guys made the experience a breeze. I will recommend to anyone who will listen!
Posted on
Casey King
2026-03-16
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Dr McHugh and his staff did an amazing job with me and my wife during my reversal. They treated us so well from the beginning to the end. We went to Dr. McHugh because he was the most experienced and happens to be 5 hours away. I’m day 4 right now and am doing well. I will update if the surgery was successful. If the Lord allows we may have another baby. Also, I love the fact that if I have questions I can ask the Dr himself or his lovely staff.
Posted on
Mike
2026-03-13
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
The team was great. I was a little nervous going in, but they made the process super easy. Very nice people and really appreciated them. Thank you all!
Posted on
David Hodges
2026-03-02
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Vasectomy Reversals are Whate We Do!
The number of vasectomies and microscopic vasectomy reversals performed by Dr. McHugh since 2020!
In the big scheme of things nope! However the picture shown above the vasectomy was done with clips. For the reversal surgeon this type of vasectomy is the easiest to find and usually is associated with a smaller segment to remove.
When the vasectomy has been done with fulguration alone (burning the inside of the severed vas) it be hard to find the actual site of the vasectomy. The defect is sometimes so small that the entire vas tube appears as if nothing has been done.
If a sperm granuloma has formed this is very easy to find and is a positive thing as the fluid is much better in this case.
Finally, a vasectomy should only be done if the couple is wanting “permanent” birth control. So a urologist doing a vasectomy in a way to make a reversal easier in my opinion is not the right attitude for either the patient or the doctor.
The three things…The surgeon, the quality of fluid at the time of the procedure, and the years since the vasectomy…and a little luck.
Time to Sperm Appearance Can Be Predicted After Vasectomy Reversal
Urology – November 30, 2007 – Vol. 23 – No. 08
After vasectomy reversal, motile sperm observed intraoperatively at the testicular vas, undergoing vasovasostomy, and an obstructive interval of <=8 years predict shorter time to appearance of sperm in the ejaculate.
Article Reviewed: The Kinetics of the Return of Motile Sperm to the Ejaculate After Vasectomy Reversal. Yang G, Walsh TJ, et al: J Urol; 2007; 177 (June): 2272-2276.
The Kinetics of the Return of Motile Sperm to the Ejaculate After Vasectomy Reversal.
Yang G, Walsh TJ, et al:
J Urol; 2007; 177 (June): 2272-2276
Objective: To study the time to appearance of sperm in the ejaculate for men undergoing vasectomy reversal. Design: Retrospective chart review of men who had undergone bilateral vasovasostomy, bilateral epididymovasostomy, or a combination of vasovasostomy on 1 side and epididymovasostomy on the other. Participants/Methods: 150 men whose records included intraoperative findings with type of reversal performed, record of sperm presence or absence, and associated fluid findings from each testicular vas deferens. Results: Presence of motile sperm in vasa was associated with a shorter time to postoperative presence of sperm observed in the ejaculate: 95% of men with motile sperm in the intraoperative vasal specimen were observed to have sperm in the ejaculate by 6 months after vasectomy reversal compared to 76% of men without motile sperm in the intraoperative specimen (P =0.04). Features correlated with a shorter onset to the observation of sperm in the ejaculate within the first 3 months after vasectomy reversal included an obstructive interval of <=8 years and vasovasostomy rather than epididymovasostomy. Patient age did not affect time to the observation of sperm in the ejaculate after vasectomy reversal.
Conclusions: Motile sperm observed intraoperatively at the testicular vas, undergoing vasovasostomy, and an obstructive interval of <=8 years predict shorter time to the appearance of sperm in the ejaculate after vasectomy reversal.
Reviewer’s Comments: The similarity with previous studies by other investigators of time to sperm seen in the ejaculate, with an average of 3.2 months for vasovasostomy and 6.3 months for epididymovasostomy, provides excellent counseling information for couples considering vasectomy reversal. (Reviewer–Craig S. Niederberger, MD).
So…I hike a trail most every evening after work and on the weekends that takes about an hour. My vasectomy reversal coordinator Kathy get several calls a day about scheduling either a reversal or a free consultation about arranging for a reversal. Many of our patient live a long way away and ask, “Can I speak to the doctor by phone?”
Kathy routinely says, “Can he call you between 5 and 6 tonight?”
The interested couple most commonly says, “Yes. Perfect.”
So last night Kathy gives me two people to call who have an interest in reversing their vasectomy. The second patient I call asked the question, “My wife and I got pregnant very quickly. I mean one the first try. Does this mean that we’ll get pregnant just as quickly after the reversal?”
Good question and very similar to this common question, “Will the reversal surgery be like the vasectomy?”
Regarding the latter, the reversal takes approximately two and half hours, a vasectomy less than 15 minutes. So no a vasectomy is not like a reversal.
Regarding the former question: the issue is not that you and your partner are very fertile, the success of the reversal depends on the experience of the surgeon and the time interval since the vasectomy.
The perfect scenario? A short time since the vasectomy and a urologist who does reversals microscopically often. It does not hurt that the wife was fertile, that is good. For the male however the production of good sperm suitable for pregnancy decrease as time elapses since the vasectomy.
It was a good question and I hope this helps you understand the nuances of a microscopic vasectomy reversal. You might check out this internal site link.