Frequently Asked Questions

The outpatient surgery

What happens during the Bimek SLV surgical procedure?

A local anaesthetic is given for the outpatient surgery. A small incision is then made on the testicles with an electrical scalpel. The spermatic ducts are lifted out and transected. The doctor will insert a tube into the openings of both spermatic ducts and, using specialised instruments, will then encase the tubes with a two-part protective cap. The valve will then be connected to the prepared openings of the spermatic ducts, which are then put back into the testicles. The inner layer of skin is stitched with absorbable thread and the outer layer is sealed with Dermabond; a fast-acting skin adhesive. The duration of the surgery is about 30 minutes.

Who performs the valve insertion?

The surgery is performed exclusively by specially trained urologists.

How long will the surgery take?

The outpatient surgery, including the required treatment of local anaesthesia, takes approximately half an hour.

Does the surgery involve any risks?

The surgical insertion of the SLV is similar to undergoing a vasectomy. The risk of side effects or permanent damage can therefore also be counted as extremely low.

Do I need to take any medication or hormones in combination with the Bimek SLV?

You will receive a local anaesthetic for the surgery, but after that you do not need to take any medication or hormonal supplements. As a result you also avoid any medicinal side effects and extra costs.

Do I need to make any special preparations before the surgery?

Yes. To ensure that it can be properly disinfected for surgery, your entire genital area should be completely shaved. Additionally, the upper thigh area should also be shaved in order to mount the electrodes of the high-frequency surgical equipment.

Will I experience any pain during or after the surgery?

You will receive a local anaesthetic before the surgery. The sensation of pain depends completely on the individual. After the surgery you can take a precautionary painkiller.

Will there be a lot of bleeding during surgery?

No, because of the use of high-frequency electrical equipment (electrosurgery), blood vessels are immediately sealed as incisions are made.

How will the surgical incision be closed?

The scrotum’s inner dermal layer will be stitched with absorbable thread that dissolves on its own after a few weeks. The wound will be sealed externally with a medicinal instant adhesive called Dermabond, which also sterilises and waterproofs. For the first few hours after the surgery you will only need a compress with a plaster to protect the incision.

Can I shower or take a bath with the stitches after surgery?

Taking a short shower is no problem. For a full bath, on the other hand, you should wait until the cut is completely healed and the instant adhesive has fallen off.

Do I need to have the stitches removed?

No. The inner stitching will dissolve on its own after a while. After a fews days, when the cut under it is fully healed, the instant adhesive on the outer surgical suture will fall off the testicles like a normal scab.

Will the surgery have any negative effects on my scrotum?

Blue marks caused by clotted blood may occur, as with all operations, but these will disappear after a few days. Should you experience any additional bleeding or other unexpected symptoms, you need to immediately seek assistance from a urologist.

Will I be left with any scars after my scrotum has healed?

Within the folds of the scrotum the tiny scar would be very difficult to see.

When will I be able to go back to work after the surgery?

It would be best for you to rest for one day, after that you will be fit enough to go back to work.

How long should I wait before exercising after I've had the surgery?

You will be able to become physically active again after one week.

When will I be able to have sex again after the surgery?

It is recommended that you wait approximately one week after the surgery before having sex again.

Does the Bimek SLV need to be removed again at some point?

No. You can keep both SLVs implanted for your entire life.

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