Preparation for Surgery

Preparing for Your Surgery

In order to have the safest and most comfortable experience with your surgery, certain preparations are important. The following information is provided to help you prepare for your vasectomy reversal surgery.

Please read and follow this advice carefully, and be sure to call us if you have any questions.

• You should avoid taking any aspirin or aspirin-containing products for two weeks before your surgery. Products containing anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), Naprosyn, or similar drugs should be avoided for one week prior to surgery. These medications prevent normal blood clotting, and increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery. (Even a single aspirin tablet will affect blood clotting for over one week!) Tylenol (acetaminophen) is safe to take at any time. If you are required to take aspirin or other similar medications for medical reasons, please contact us prior to surgery to discuss them.
• Some supplements may also increase the risk of bleeding. Known or suspected supplements include:
  • Gingko biloba
  • Garlic
  • Ginseng
  • Fish oil
  • Dong quai
  • Feverfew
• If you are on blood thinners (such as warfarin, Lovenox, Plavix, etc) it is critical that you contact us prior to surgery, as these greatly increase the risk of bleeding after surgery.
• You should shower or bathe the evening before surgery.
• You will need to shave the scrotal area the night before or morning of surgery. The area to be shaved includes the front and sides of the scrotal sac, the penis, and the area over both groins on either side of the penis. It is not necessary to shave the pubic area (the area above the penis). Shaving should be done within 24 hours of the surgery. (Note: the pre-screening call from the OR may tell you not to shave. You should politely ignore this recommendation, which does not apply to this time of surgery).
• You must have a completely empty stomach for at least 12 hours before the scheduled time of your surgery. This means absolutely no food or fluids, even water. This is required for your safety by the anesthesiologists—there can be no exceptions to this requirement; surgery will be canceled and rescheduled if it is not kept. If you are required to take prescription medications daily, please contact us for further instructions.