Microsurgical Varicocelectomy

A varicocelectomy can be a very precise and important procedure, so it’s worth exploring the most technologically advanced options available. Your board-certified urologist can perform a microsurgical varicocelectomy to reduce downtime and help you achieve relief.

Varicocele Treatment in Los Angeles with Dr. Justin Houman

Board-Certified Urologist & Male Fertility Specialist at Cedars-Sinai

Dr. Justin Houman is one of the nation’s foremost experts in microsurgical varicocelectomy, a highly effective procedure for treating male infertility and testicular pain. A Board-Certified Urologist and Fellowship-Trained Male Infertility and Microsurgery Specialist at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, he also serves as an Assistant Professor of Urology, training the next generation of reproductive urologists. Fewer than 2% of urologists in the United States hold this level of fellowship training, making Dr. Houman’s expertise exceptionally rare. Patients from across the U.S. and internationally travel to his Los Angeles practice for advanced fertility care.
Dr. Houman is nationally recognized for his state-of-the-art microsurgical techniques, which deliver superior outcomes compared to older or less precise methods. His approach has been highlighted in medical news and industry publications for its ability to improve sperm quality, relieve testicular pain, and restore fertility with minimal downtime.

Why Microsurgical Varicocelectomy Matters

Varicoceles — enlarged veins in the scrotum — are one of the most common causes of male infertility. They can reduce sperm count, impair motility, and damage sperm DNA, while also contributing to testicular discomfort. Microsurgical varicocelectomy is considered the gold standard treatment because it directly repairs the problem with unmatched precision and lasting results.
Dr. Houman’s outcomes speak for themselves:

• >90% success rate in improving sperm parameters and fertility

• <1% recurrence rate, compared with 10–20% recurrence in non-surgical embolization techniques

• Significant improvement in testicular pain for men who undergo surgery primarily for discomfort
  By using advanced microsurgical techniques, Dr. Houman is able to achieve fertility outcomes that set a national benchmark.

Dr. Houman’s Advanced Microsurgical Technique

Microsurgical varicocelectomy involves making a very small incision, often less than one inch, in the groin or scrotum. Using a high-powered operating microscope, Dr. Houman carefully identifies and ties off the problematic veins while preserving surrounding arteries, lymphatics, and reproductive structures. This precision dramatically reduces complications and maximizes success rates.
The procedure is typically performed as outpatient surgery, allowing patients to return home the same day. Most men resume normal daily activities in just 2–3 days, with full activity and exercise usually possible within 2–3 weeks. Compared to older open surgical methods or embolization, microsurgical varicocelectomy offers faster recovery, lower recurrence, and superior fertility results.

Complex and Recurrent Varicocele Cases

Many urologists only treat straightforward varicoceles, but Dr. Houman is known for managing complex or recurrent cases. These include:

• Men with prior failed varicocelectomy or embolization

• Varicoceles associated with severe infertility or azoospermia

• Cases complicated by prior surgery, scarring, or anatomic variations
  Through his fellowship training and extensive microsurgical experience, Dr. Houman offers solutions to men who have been told their condition cannot be corrected.

Enhanced Recovery and Patient Care

Dr. Houman incorporates enhanced recovery protocols into every surgery to minimize discomfort and speed recovery. His approach includes:

• Pain-sparing nerve blocks to reduce the need for narcotics

• Minimally invasive techniques that limit tissue disruption

• Same-day discharge for nearly all patients

• A personalized follow-up plan with detailed guidance for resuming activity and monitoring fertility outcomes
  This patient-centered approach ensures men not only achieve excellent surgical outcomes but also recover quickly and return to daily life with confidence.

Varicocelectomy for Fertility and Testicular Pain

While the most common reason for varicocelectomy is infertility, Dr. Houman also treats men with testicular pain caused by varicoceles. For many, surgery offers lasting relief where conservative measures fail. By carefully identifying nerve pathways and preserving critical structures during surgery, Dr. Houman minimizes risks while maximizing pain reduction and fertility benefits simultaneously.

National Recognition and Authority

Dr. Houman’s expertise has been recognized nationally, including media coverage highlighting his advanced microsurgical varicocelectomy techniques and their role in treating infertility, chronic pain, and low testosterone. As a published author in peer-reviewed journals and an active member of professional societies such as the AUA, SMSNA, ISSM, and SSMR, he consistently contributes to advancing the field of reproductive urology. His work in microsurgery is not only trusted by patients but also referenced by colleagues and academic institutions.

Microsurgical Varicocelectomy Procedure: What to Expect

Before Surgery:

• You will undergo a comprehensive evaluation with Dr. Houman, including semen analysis, testicular ultrasound, and hormone testing.
• Personalized treatment plans are created based on your fertility goals and overall health.

During Surgery:

• Performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.
• A small incision is made in the groin to access the affected veins.
• Using a high-powered microscope, Dr. Houman carefully ties off the swollen veins while preserving the arteries and lymphatics.
• The procedure takes about 1-2 hours and is performed on an outpatient basis.

After Surgery & Recovery:

• Most patients resume normal activities within 2-3 days.
• Mild discomfort is expected but can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Strenuous activity and heavy lifting should be avoided for 2-3 weeks.
• Semen analysis is recommended 3-6 months post-surgery to assess improvement in fertility.

Who is a Candidate for Microsurgical Varicocelectomy?

Microsurgical varicocelectomy is recommended for men experiencing:

• Chronic scrotal pain due to varicoceles
• Infertility linked to poor sperm quality
• Testicular atrophy or discomfort
• Low testosterone levels associated with varicoceles

If you are struggling with male fertility issues or testicular discomfort, a consultation with Dr. Houman can determine if this minimally invasive procedure is right for you.

Why Choose Dr. Justin Houman for Varicocelectomy

Selecting the right surgeon is critical to achieving the best results. With his rare combination of Cedars-Sinai fellowship training in Male Infertility and Microsurgery, Assistant Professorship in Urology, national reputation, and exceptional outcomes, Dr. Houman is among the most trusted names in varicocelectomy. His ability to manage both routine and complex cases, deliver superior fertility outcomes, and provide compassionate, patient-centered care makes him the surgeon men choose when they want the highest standard of treatment.

Dr. Houman has successfully performed thousands of microsurgical varicocelectomies, helping men restore their fertility and relieve pain with exceptional outcomes.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you’re experiencing testicular pain, infertility, or low testosterone, Dr. Justin Houman offers expert microsurgical varicocelectomy in Los Angeles. Contact our office today to schedule an appointment and learn more about your treatment options.

To meet with Dr. Houman at his Los Angeles practice contact our office by calling (310) 854-9898 or filling out our online form.

Frequently Asked Questions About Varicocele & Microsurgical Varicocelectomy

What is a varicocele and how common is it?

A varicocele is an enlarged, twisted vein within the scrotum that disrupts blood flow and can lead to male infertility or discomfort. It affects approximately 15% of all men and up to 40% of men diagnosed with infertility, making it one of the most common reversible causes of fertility issues. Dr. Justin Houman, a leading men’s health urologist in Los Angeles, specializes in diagnosing and treating varicoceles with precision and care.

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Can a varicocele cause infertility?

Yes. Varicoceles can raise testicular temperature and impair sperm production, leading to fertility problems. Dr. Houman regularly treats patients in Los Angeles experiencing low sperm count, poor motility, or hormonal imbalance related to varicoceles — often with excellent post-treatment improvements in fertility.

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How do I know if I have a varicocele?

Some varicoceles are asymptomatic and discovered during fertility evaluations, while others may cause a dull ache, visible lump, or a “bag of worms” feeling in the scrotum. Dr. Houman uses a combination of physical exams and testicular ultrasound at his Los Angeles clinic to confirm a diagnosis.

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What is microsurgical varicocelectomy?

Microsurgical varicocelectomy is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that uses a high-powered surgical microscope to isolate and tie off affected veins while preserving arteries and lymphatics. Dr. Justin Houman, a fellowship-trained male fertility specialist, performs this advanced surgery at his Los Angeles practice to maximize success and minimize complications.

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Is microsurgical varicocelectomy better than other treatment options?

Yes. Microsurgical varicocelectomy is considered the gold standard due to its 90%+ success rate in improving sperm parameters and a recurrence rate of under 1%. Dr. Houman prefers this method for its precision, faster recovery, and long-term effectiveness in fertility restoration.

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What is recovery like after varicocele surgery?

Most patients resume light activity within 2–3 days and return to full physical activity in 2–3 weeks. At HoumanMD in Los Angeles, Dr. Houman provides detailed aftercare instructions and follow-up testing, including semen analysis at 3–6 months to monitor progress.

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Does varicocelectomy help with testosterone levels?

In many cases, yes. Dr. Houman has observed measurable increases in testosterone after varicocele repair, particularly in men with low levels prior to surgery. He includes hormone testing in his comprehensive men’s health evaluations to guide personalized treatment.

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Who is a good candidate for varicocele surgery?

Dr. Houman recommends varicocelectomy for men dealing with:

• Persistent testicular pain

• Fertility challenges

• Testicular shrinkage (atrophy)

• Hormonal imbalances linked to low testosterone

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, a consultation with Dr. Houman in Los Angeles can help determine if this microsurgical approach is right for you.

 

An expert in his field

Meet Dr. Houman

Dr. Justin Houman is a board-certified, fellowship-trained Urologist and Men’s Health specialist whose mission is to enhance men’s quality of life by improving their sexual and reproductive health. Dr. Houman’s focus is on making a difference in people’s lives through state-of-the-art, compassionate, and personally tailored care.

       

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