The procedure takes about 10-20 minutes and is done under local anesthesia. Afterwards, patients usually wear a jock strap or briefs for support, put ice on the groin, and stay off their feet for a couple of days. Some swelling and bruising can be expected. Pain medication is often prescribed. If the man works a desk job, he can be back to work in a few days.
Complications are rare and minor.
Excessive bleeding or infection are possible. This is called a sperm granuloma. It too resolves on its own in most cases. Rarely, antibiotics or repeat surgery will be needed. There have been concerns raised about increased prostate cancer risk in men who have had vasectomies, but there is not conclusive proof.