VASECTOMY

A vasectomy is the most effective form of permanent birth control for men, and modern technique has made it simpler and more comfortable than most men expect. At Maui Urology, Dr. Carlsen performs the no-scalpel, no-needle vasectomy — the most refined version of the procedure — right in our Wailuku office.

• No scalpel. A tiny opening is made with a specialized instrument instead of an incision. No stitches are needed.
• No needle. Anesthetic is delivered with a spray applicator rather than a traditional injection.
• No general anesthesia. The procedure is done under local anesthesia while you're awake and comfortable. You walk in and walk out.
• Fast. The procedure itself typically takes about 15–20 minutes.
• Quick recovery. Most men are back to desk work in 1–2 days and back to full activity, including surfing and the gym, in about a week. 

Leading urology guidelines recommend that vasectomy be performed under local anesthesia in an office setting whenever possible. Compared with procedures done under sedation or general anesthesia in a surgery center, an office vasectomy under local anesthesia means:

• Lower risk. You avoid the risks associated with general anesthesia entirely.
• Lower cost. No operating room fees, no anesthesiologist fees. This matters whether you're paying out of pocket or through insurance. The facility fee rate charged for Medicare in 2026 for having this simple procedure done in an operating room is over $2500 and for most commercial insurances it is significantly higher. 
• No lost day. No fasting beforehand, no grogginess afterward, and no requirement for someone to monitor you through recovery from anesthesia. You'll still need a ride home — take it easy the rest of the day.

Before: A brief consultation to answer your questions and confirm the decision.  

During: You'll lie comfortably while the area is numbed with the no-needle applicator. Most men describe the procedure as far easier than they expected — pressure and mild tugging, not pain.

After: Rest and ice the first day. Mild to moderate soreness is normal for a few days. A semen test after about 12 weeks confirms the procedure was successful; use backup contraception until we have confirmed azospermia with the laboratory.

Does it hurt? The no-needle anesthetic makes the numbing step nearly painless, and the procedure itself is done while you're fully numb. Most patients tell us it was much easier than they feared.

Will it affect my sex life or testosterone? No. A vasectomy does not change hormone levels, sexual function, or sensation. It only blocks sperm from entering the semen.

Is it reversible? Vasectomy should be considered permanent. Reversal procedures exist but are costly and not always successful.

Is it covered by insurance? Most plans cover vasectomy. Our staff will verify your benefits before your procedure. We also offer a straightforward cash price — call for details.

How do I schedule? Call (808) 242-8765. No physician referral is needed for a vasectomy consultation for most insurances.

Dr. Carlsen has performed thousands of vasectomies, including over 500 hundred for Maui families since founding Maui Urology.