When to Call Your Doctor About Post-Operative Swelling

Swelling is among the most common side effects for patients who have undergone any type of surgery, including vasectomy reversals. If you ever have any questions or concerns following an operation, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the doctor. You should also carefully review your discharge information and follow the instructions listed there. 

What to Expect 

You should expect to experience some scrotal swelling after your surgery. The area will also look bruised and be uncomfortable. It shouldn’t be painful as long as you’re taking your medications as prescribed. The degree of swelling can vary from one patient to the next. Some might notice a great deal of swelling, while others only have a little. 

How Long It Will Last 

The swelling and other post-operative side effects will be most noticeable during the first week. By the end of that week, you should notice a gradual decline in the amount of swelling. Some minor swelling may linger for an additional one to two weeks. By the end of the third week, the swelling should have been resolved. 

When to Worry 

Generally, swelling is not a red flag unless it’s excessive or it’s accompanied by severe, worsening pain. However, you can always call the doctor if you’re unsure of whether your swelling is a sign of a complication. It’s uncommon, but possible, for men to experience a hematoma after a vasectomy reversal. A hematoma is a collection of pooling blood that occurs when a blood vessel ruptures. You should seek a doctor’s care if you suspect you might have a hematoma. You should also call your doctor if your pain is not well–managed. 

What to Do 

Following your discharge instructions will help you manage the post-operative swelling and other side effects. Keep an ice pack on the scrotal area for 20 minutes at a time. Get plenty of rest, especially during the first day or two. Avoid vigorous physical activity for two weeks. And don’t forget to wear your scrotal support! 

The Center for Vasectomy Reversal provides extensive pre-operative and post-operative support for our patients. Dr. Joshua Green is always responsive to his patients, and each patient receives his personal cell phone number. If you have questions about your vasectomy reversal in Sarasota, give us a call at (941) 894-6428.