Male Fertility
Varicocele Repair
Precision microsurgical varicocele repair to improve sperm quality, reduce testicular pain, and restore fertility potential.
Schedule a ConsultOverview
What is a Varicocele?
A varicocele is an enlargement of the veins within the scrotum — similar to varicose veins in the leg. They are present in about 15% of all men and up to 40% of men evaluated for infertility, making them one of the most common and correctable causes of male factor infertility.
Varicoceles raise scrotal temperature and disrupt normal blood flow, which impairs sperm production and function. They can also cause chronic testicular discomfort and contribute to progressive testicular atrophy over time.
Precision Microsurgical Varicocele Repair
Benefits
Why Treat a Varicocele?
Improved Sperm Quality
Studies show significant improvements in sperm count, motility, and morphology following repair.
Restored Fertility
Many couples achieve natural conception after varicocele repair, avoiding the need for IVF.
Pain Relief
Effective at relieving chronic testicular ache and discomfort in the majority of patients.
Testosterone Improvement
Varicocele repair may also improve testosterone levels in men with hormonal deficiency.
The Procedure
Microsurgical Varicocelectomy
Dr. Chu performs the subinguinal microsurgical approach — the gold standard technique. Using a high-powered operating microscope, he precisely identifies and ligates the dilated veins while carefully preserving the testicular artery, lymphatics, and vas deferens.
- Outpatient procedure performed under general or regional anesthesia
- Typically 1–2 hours depending on complexity
- Return to light activity within 2–3 days
- Full recovery and return to exercise within 2 weeks
- Sperm improvement expected over 3–6 months post-surgery
Process
What to Expect
Consultation
Physical exam and review of semen analysis, hormone levels, and ultrasound imaging to confirm varicocele grade and treatment indication.
Procedure
Outpatient microsurgical repair performed at a surgery center. Precise ligation of dilated veins under magnification.
Recovery
Most patients return to light activity within 2–3 days. Avoid strenuous exercise and sexual activity for 2 weeks.
Follow-Up
Semen analyses at 3 and 6 months post-surgery to track sperm parameter improvements.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a varicocele?
A varicocele is an enlargement of the veins within the scrotum, similar to varicose veins in the leg. They are present in about 15% of men and up to 40% of men evaluated for infertility.
How do varicoceles affect fertility?
Varicoceles raise scrotal temperature and disrupt blood flow, impairing sperm production and function. Repairing them often leads to significant improvements in sperm count, motility, and morphology.
Is surgery always necessary?
Not always. Small varicoceles that are not causing symptoms or impacting fertility may be monitored. Surgery is recommended when there is documented fertility impairment, testicular atrophy, or significant pain.
What makes microsurgical repair superior?
The microsurgical approach uses a high-powered operating microscope to precisely identify and preserve surrounding structures — including lymphatics and arteries — significantly reducing the risk of complications.
How long is recovery?
Most patients return to light activity within 2–3 days and full activity within 2 weeks. Sexual activity is typically resumed after 2 weeks.
When will I see improvement in sperm quality?
Sperm parameters typically improve over 3–6 months following repair, as spermatogenesis (sperm production) takes approximately 72 days to complete a full cycle.
Will it help with testicular pain?
Yes — varicocele repair is effective at relieving chronic testicular discomfort in the majority of men who undergo the procedure.
Are there risks?
The microsurgical approach carries very low complication rates. Potential risks include hydrocele formation, artery injury, or recurrence — all of which are minimized with microsurgical technique.
Why Us
Why Choose Dr. Kevin Chu?
- Fellowship-trained microsurgeon with extensive experience performing microsurgical varicocelectomy
- Uses the gold-standard subinguinal microsurgical approach for the best outcomes and lowest complication rates
- Privacy is a priority — discreet office ensures a comfortable experience
- Free parking and easy scheduling at our Redondo Beach location
