Phone: (713) 798-4001 | Houston, TX

May 8, 2014 — by Larry Lipshultz

What Patients Should Know About Bruising After Vasectomy ReversalThere are a number of men who have undergone a vasectomy who would like to reverse the procedure. This is made possible thanks to vasectomy reversal surgery. When you meet with a urologist, you can discuss vasectomy reversal and other men's health issues in much greater detail.

Right now, we'd like to take a moment to go over the basics of vasectomy reversal and discuss bruising after surgery, which is one of the side effects patients experience after undergoing the procedure.

About Vasectomy Reversal Surgery

A vasectomy reversal (vasovasostomy) reattaches the vas deferens, which were cut during the initial surgery. In doing so, this reversal procedure allows men to father children naturally again.

The success of the vasectomy reversal greatly depends on the amount of time that's passed between the initial vasectomy and the reversal procedure. During your consultation with Dr. Larry Lipshultz, he can go over potential success rates and other matters regarding your situation in further detail.

Is bruising normal after vasectomy reversal surgery?

Yes, bruising of the scrotum and testicular area are common side effects after vasectomy reversal surgery. The same is true of soreness and swelling. These are all just signs that your body is responding to surgery and it is all part of the natural healing process.

How long will the bruising last?

This can vary a fair amount from patient to patient simply given the different responses that a person's body may have to surgery. The bruising as well as swelling tend to last for a few days, sometimes becoming more pronounced before eventually subsiding.

For the most part, patients tend to experience bruising for roughly five days to a week.

How can I deal with the post-surgical bruising?

Urologists will often recommend that patients get a lot of rest after their surgery in order to promote faster and more effective healing. Taking recommended pain medications and using ice packs as needed are both ideal options for reducing the bruising and swelling after the vasectomy reversal.

What should I do if the bruising persists?

If the bruising lasts for more than a week after you undergo vasectomy reversal, be sure to contact your urologist right away. This is especially true if your notice a fever, increased swelling, or any odd discharge from the scrotum.

Keep In Touch with Your Urologist As You Recover

By the end of the first week, you will have likely been back to the practice for a follow-up visit or two, but be sure to keep your surgeon posted about any occurrences that seem troubling to you. This goes for any instances of persistent bruising, major swelling, or extreme pain and discomfort. By notifying your surgeon sooner rather than later, you can receive the care that you need when it is needed most.

Learn More About Vasectomy Reversal

If you would like more information about vasectomy reversal surgery and how it can be of great benefit to you and your needs, be sure to contact our Houston men's health and urology practice today. Dr. Larry Lipshultz looks forward to meeting you in person and helping you with all of your men's health needs as they arise.