Ironwood Urology’s Blog

Men produce the majority of their testosterone in their gonads (testicles), and a smaller amount in their adrenal glands. Testosterone is known as an androgen, a hormone that is responsible for many male characteristics such as facial hair, sex drive, and higher relative muscle mass than females. Testosterone levels normally fluctuate (sometimes literally fluctuating between night and day), and men typically produce about 7mg of testosterone in a 24-hour period. As you age, testosterone levels naturally begin to fall. Research shows that roughly 2 out of every 10 men over the age of 60 have low testosterone, or low T. That number jumps to 3 out of every 10 for men between the ages of 70-80.

A vasectomy reversal is a microsurgical procedure to restore male fertility. It is also one of the most popular elective urological surgeries for men. There are two basic kinds of vasectomy reversal procedures: the first is called the vas-to-vas reconstruction, or a vasovasostomy. Depending on the length of time since the vasectomy, the quality of the original procedure, and other causes, another approach can be employed to restore fertility. This is known as a vas-to- testicular bypass surgery, or vasoepididymostomy. Dr. Avila, a board-certified and fellowship trained urologist specializing in male infertility, is an acknowledged expert in all forms of male infertility treatment, including the two-layer microsurgical technique that is considered the gold standard for the vas-to-vas reconstruction.

A vasectomy reversal is a microsurgical procedure for men who have undergone a vasectomy, and who now wish to father children. Vasectomy reversals are actually one of the most common elective surgeries for men; they have a high rate of success rate when performed by a skilled urologist, experienced in microsurgical techniques. (Even after years or even decades have passed since the original vasectomy.) There are two main forms of vasectomy reversal. The most common is the vas-to vas reconstruction. The second is a testicular bypass. The exact procedure will depend on several factors. In some cases, it is very straightforward, in others, an additional step, known as a testicular bypass surgery, may be required in order to restore a man’s full fertility.

A vasectomy is a surgical procedure for permanent male birth control. Every year, over half a million men in the United States undergo a vasectomy, making it the most common urological medical procedure in America. It is also a highly effective method of birth control. Typically performed as an outpatient procedure, a vasectomy involves the cutting of the vas deferens (which supply sperm from the testicles to the penis). As with any surgical procedure, the process surrounding having a vasectomy can leave a patient with many questions. Being well informed and ready for your procedure goes a long way towards being comfortable with your decision and the process involved.