Microsurgical Varicocelectomy | Varicocele Treatment in Los Angeles with Dr. Justin Houman

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.

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

If you’re struggling with testicular pain, fertility challenges, or have been diagnosed with a varicocele, you’re not alone. Varicoceles affect up to 15% of men and are one of the most common reversible causes of male infertility. At his practice in Los Angeles, Dr. Justin Houman offers state-of-the-art diagnosis and treatment for varicoceles, including the gold standard microsurgical varicocelectomy technique.

Dr. Houman is a board-certified urologist and fellowship-trained male fertility specialist, and he serves as Assistant Clinical Professor of Urology at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. His practice is dedicated exclusively to men’s health, and he is known across Southern California for his precise surgical approach and compassionate care.

What is a Varicocele?

A varicocele is an enlarged, twisted vein within the scrotum, similar to a varicose vein in the leg. It can increase scrotal temperature, disrupt blood flow, and impair sperm production — which may lead to infertility, testicular pain, and even low testosterone.

Common symptoms of a varicocele include:
• A dull ache or scrotal pain that worsens with physical activity
• A visible or palpable lump, often described as a “bag of worms”
• Testicular shrinkage (atrophy)
• Fertility issues such as low sperm count or poor motility
• Fatigue or reduced libido due to lower testosterone

Why Choose a Microsurgical Varicocelectomy?

The microsurgical approach to varicocelectomy is the gold standard for treating varicoceles. It provides higher success rates, minimal risk of complications, and a faster recovery compared to traditional surgical techniques.

Benefits of Microsurgical Varicocelectomy:

✔ High Success Rate – Up to 90% improvement in sperm parameters
✔ Minimally Invasive – Precision technique using a high-powered surgical microscope
✔ Faster Recovery – Short downtime with minimal post-op discomfort
✔ Lower Recurrence Rate – Less than 1% recurrence compared to other methods

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 Your Varicocele Treatment?

✔ Los Angeles’ Leading Male Fertility Specialist
✔ Expert in Microsurgical & Minimally Invasive Techniques
✔ Board-Certified Urologist Specializing in Men’s Health
✔ Personalized, Patient-Centered Care

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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