Fertility Treatments
Surgical Sperm Retrieval: PESA/TESE
If sperm production is a challenge, PESA and TESE provide a safe, effective way to retrieve sperm. These procedures help you take the next step towards starting or growing your family.
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What is Surgical Sperm Retrieval?
PESA (Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration) and TESE (Testicular Sperm Extraction) are minimally invasive procedures that retrieve sperm directly from the epididymis or testicle.
Who Surgical Sperm Retrieval may be suitable for
PESA and TESE are designed for men who face specific challenges with sperm production or blockages in the reproductive tract, including those who:
- Cannot produce sperm in their ejaculate
- Have blockages in the seminal tract (obstructive azoospermia)
- Have very low sperm production (non-obstructive azoospermia)
- Have had a previous vasectomy or failed reversal
- Have complications from infection or injury
- Are exploring either cryopreservation or fertility treatment options
Key Benefits
These procedures offer practical advantages while minimising disruption, giving men real options to move forward with fertility treatment:
- High success rates in retrieving sperm
- Minimally invasive with a short recovery period
- Sperm can be used immediately in treatment or frozen for future use
- Even a very small number of retrieved sperm can be sufficient for fertilisation with treatments like ICSI
How Does Surgical Sperm Retrieval Work?
At our clinic, your treatment journey is carefully tailored to your needs, combining advanced medical techniques with personalised support. From your first consultation to follow-up care, we guide you every step of the way, ensuring you understand the process, your options, and what to expect throughout recovery.
Step 1
Your journey begins with a one-on-one appointment with your specialist. You’ll review your medical history, current medications, and overall health, discuss whether PESA or TESE is suitable for you, and explore any alternative options.
Step 2
Targeted investigations help ensure the best possible outcome. These typically include a semen analysis, blood tests and imaging or scans to detect blockages or structural issues. If your results show the PESA/TESE should be part of your treatment plan, our experts will make sure you leave with a clear understanding of your fertility potential.
Step 3
Once investigations are complete, your care team will create a personalised pathway for your treatment. This includes a detailed explanation of the procedure, what to expect during recovery, follow-up planning and the option to freeze sperm for future use.
Step 4
PESA and TESE are minimally invasive procedures designed to maximise comfort and efficiency. PESA retrieves sperm via a fine needle from the epididymis, while TESE involves taking a small biopsy from the testicle, either from a single site or multiple sites.
Procedures are typically performed under local anaesthetic or IV sedation and are completed in under an hour, with no overnight stay required.
Step 5
After the procedure, most patients experience a short recovery period with minimal discomfort. Your specialist will review the retrieval outcomes and discuss next steps for fertility treatment, such as ICSI. Emotional support and counselling are also available throughout your journey.
Our Surgical Sperm Retrieval Success in Numbers
Over 200 Sperm Retrieval Procedures Completed
Between 2020 and 2025, we completed 221 surgical sperm retrieval procedures and of these, 53% were PESA procedures and 47% were TESE, reflecting the tailored approach we take based on each patient’s needs.
During the same period, 133 ICSI cycles were carried out using sperm obtained through SSR. While fertilisation rates are slightly lower than routine ICSI (around 60% compared to 70%), blastulation rates remain strong at up to 58%, demonstrating the viability of embryos created using surgically retrieved sperm.
Importantly, patients undergoing SSR and ICSI can achieve meaningful outcomes over time. The cumulative live birth rate reaches 40% after three embryo transfers from a single egg collection.
Want to learn more? You can explore our success rates page to see the latest outcomes.
Insights
Are there any risks from using surgically collected sperm?
Surgically collected sperm is generally very safe and does not affect your chances of pregnancy or the health of future children. Any procedure carries small risks, such as those related to sedation or minor surgery, but these are carefully managed by our experienced clinical team to keep you as safe and comfortable as possible.
How Much Does Surgical Sperm Retrieval Cost?
The cost of surgical sperm retrieval can vary depending on the type of procedure, sedation and whether you choose to freeze and store the sperm. Understanding what’s included helps you plan your treatment with confidence.
Surgical Sperm Retrieval Prices
Sperm Collection, Freezing and Sedation £2,015.00
FAQs about Sperm Retrieval
No, the quantity of semen does not determine whether sperm are present. Success depends on finding motile, morphologically normal sperm and the underlying cause of azoospermia.
Most patients return to normal activities within a day or two. Minor soreness may last a few days.
Yes. Retrieved sperm can be used immediately for ICSI or frozen for future fertility treatments.
Why choose us for Surgical Sperm Retrieval?
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Explore your options with Surgical Sperm Retrieval
Every family journey starts with a first step. Our fertility health assessment gives you clarity, reassurance and expert personalised advice from our specialists as you explore treatment options such as PESA/TESE. We're here to walk that path with you.
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