About vasectomy
A vasectomy blocks the vas deferens, the two tubes that carry sperm, so semen no longer contains sperm. It is one of the most effective forms of birth control, at more than 99 percent once a semen test confirms success. It does not change testosterone, sex drive, erections or the look and feel of ejaculate.
Is it right for you?
Vasectomy is meant to be permanent. It is a good fit for men who are sure they do not want future children. Reversal is possible but is a bigger operation and does not always work, so Dr. Neal Patel talks through the decision with you, and your partner if you like, at a consultation before the procedure.
The procedure
Most vasectomies take 15 to 30 minutes in the office with local anesthesia. The vas is reached through one or two very small openings in the scrotal skin; minimally invasive techniques usually mean little bleeding and few or no stitches. Oral medicine to help you relax may be offered; if you take it, you need a driver.
Recovery
Plan on a quiet day or two with ice, snug supportive underwear and over-the-counter pain relief. Many men return to desk work in 1 to 2 days and to exercise and sex in about a week. Call the office for fever, a growing or very painful scrotal swelling, or bleeding that does not stop.
Confirming it worked
You are not sterile right away. Use other birth control until a semen test, usually 8 to 16 weeks after the procedure, shows no sperm or only rare non-moving sperm. Dr. Neal Patel's team will tell you when to send the sample.
Cost and insurance
Vasectomy is covered by many commercial plans; Medicare generally does not cover it. Call 678-344-8900 to check your coverage before you book.
Frequently asked questions
Does a vasectomy hurt? Most men feel a brief sting from the numbing medicine and pressure during the procedure, then mild soreness for a few days.
Does it affect testosterone or erections? No. Hormones, erections and orgasm are unchanged.
How soon can I go back to work? Many men with desk jobs return in 1 to 2 days; heavy lifting usually waits about a week.
Where can I have it done? Dr. Neal Patel sees patients at Advanced Urology in Johns Creek and Cumming, serving patients from across metro Atlanta. His Advanced Urology team also sees patients in Decatur and Braselton.
Your next step
Call 678-344-8900 to book a vasectomy consultation with Dr. Neal Patel, or ask your doctor to refer you.
Where Dr. Neal Patel sees patients
Dr. Neal Patel sees patients from across metro Atlanta at two Advanced Urology offices:
- Johns Creek: 10730 Medlock Bridge Rd, Ste 110, Johns Creek, GA 30097
- Cumming: 4150 Deputy Bill Cantrell Memorial Rd, Ste 180, Cumming, GA 30040
His Advanced Urology team also sees patients in Decatur and Braselton. Call 678-344-8900 to book. Same-day and next-day appointments are often available.
Preparing for your visit with Dr. Neal Patel
Bring a list of your current medications and supplements, any prior urine, blood or PSA results, and the reports (or discs) from recent imaging. If you can, arrive with a comfortably full bladder, because a urine sample and a bladder scan are often part of the first visit. Write down your main questions so nothing is missed. A family member is welcome to join you. If you prefer Spanish or Korean, let the office know when you book so language support is ready.
Your chart is reviewed before you arrive, and insurance requirements for likely imaging or procedures are checked up front so approvals can move sooner. Before you leave, your orders, prescriptions and follow-up plan are reviewed with you, and you receive education materials tailored to your condition.
At the end of the visit you will receive a written summary in your preferred language that explains what was found, what was ordered and what happens next. Your primary care physician or referring doctor receives a clear update letter with findings, plan and next steps, so everyone caring for you stays informed. Dr. Neal Patel sees patients at the Johns Creek and Cumming offices; call 678-344-8900.
Reviewed by Dr. Neal Patel, MD, board-certified urologist. This page is general information and not a substitute for medical advice.