About Surgical Sperm Retrieval
Key Highlights
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Enables biological fatherhood for men with no sperm in their ejaculate.Utilizes advanced microsurgical techniques for precise, minimally invasive retrieval.Retrieved sperm can be used immediately with IVF/ICSI or frozen for future cycles.Performed by a specialized Andrologist with expertise in male reproductive surgery.High success rates for fertilization when combined with modern assisted reproduction.
Who is this surgery for?
- Obstructive Azoospermia (e.g., due to prior vasectomy, congenital absence of the vas deferens, or infection).
- Non-Obstructive Azoospermia (very low sperm production).
- Failed or unsuccessful prior sperm retrieval attempts.
- Ejaculatory dysfunction (e.g., retrograde ejaculation) unresponsive to medication.
- Immediate need for sperm on the day of an IVF/ICSI cycle when no sperm is available.
How to prepare
- Comprehensive fertility evaluation, including hormone tests and genetic counseling if indicated.
- Detailed discussion with the andrologist and fertility team to choose the optimal retrieval technique.
- Pre-operative blood tests and possibly a semen analysis.
- Informed consent process detailing the procedure, risks, and alternatives.
- Fasting for 6-8 hours before the procedure if performed under anesthesia.
- Arranging for transportation home post-procedure, as driving is not advised.
Risks & possible complications
- Common: Minor pain, swelling, and bruising at the surgical site.
- Infection or bleeding (hematoma) in the scrotum.
- Temporary or, rarely, permanent reduction in testosterone production.
- In very rare cases, damage to testicular blood supply or structure.
- No sperm may be found (empty retrieval), especially in severe non-obstructive cases.
- Risks associated with anesthesia (e.g., nausea, allergic reaction).
Recovery & hospital stay
- Most procedures are outpatient, with discharge on the same day.
- Rest and limited activity for 24-48 hours; avoid strenuous exercise for 1-2 weeks.
- Apply ice packs to the scrotum intermittently for the first 24-48 hours to reduce swelling.
- Wear supportive underwear (e.g., jockstrap) for comfort and to minimize movement.
- Keep the incision site clean and dry; avoid baths, swimming, or hot tubs for about a week.
- Prescribed pain medication should manage discomfort effectively.
- Attend a follow-up appointment with the andrologist to monitor healing and discuss results.
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Typical hospital stay: 0-1 days (Typically outpatient)
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Expected recovery time: 3-7 days for normal activity, 2-3 weeks for full recovery
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering surgical sperm retrieval in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in India with andrology departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform surgical sperm retrieval. MediFyr helps you compare andrologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for surgical sperm retrieval compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | INR 50 Thousand – 200 Thousand | 0-1 days (Typically outpatient) | ~ 3-7 days for normal activity, 2-3 weeks for full recovery | Know More |
| Turkey | TRY 175 Thousand – 700 Thousand | 0-1 days (Typically outpatient) | ~ 3-7 days for normal activity, 2-3 weeks for full recovery | Know More |
Sophia Reddy, 34, is a pediatric...
Sophia Reddy, 34, is a pediatric nurse who always dreamed of having a family. After a year of trying to conceive with her wife, Maya, they discovered Maya's fertility was fine, but Sophia had no sperm in her ejaculate due to a congenital condition called congenital bilateral absence of the vas deferens (CBAVD). Their reproductive endocrinologist referred them to an andrologist. The andrologist explained that Surgical Sperm Retrieval (SSR), specifically a procedure called Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (PESA), could retrieve sperm directly from her reproductive tract for use with IVF and ICSI. Sophia underwent the brief, outpatient procedure under local anesthesia, feeling nervous but determined. Recovery involved a few days of mild soreness and swelling, managed with ice and over-the-counter pain relievers. The procedure was successful, retrieving motile sperm which were frozen. The emotional journey was intense; Sophia grappled with feelings of inadequacy and the physical invasion of the procedure. Afterward, she felt empowered and hopeful, having taken a concrete step toward biological motherhood. She and Maya are now preparing for an IVF cycle with the retrieved sperm.