TESE / Micro-TESE in India for UAE Patients | Cost, Recovery
For couples in the UAE facing male infertility, the journey can often bring uncertainty, especially when considering advanced treatments like TESE or Micro-TESE. Questions about treatment availability, success rates, and the overall experience beyond home borders are common concerns. Finding precise care for complex fertility challenges requires careful thought.
Many patients from the UAE explore medical options in India due to its established reputation in reproductive medicine. India offers a wide network of fertility clinics and hospitals across its major cities. This broad availability ensures a choice of specialists and treatment environments, providing accessible pathways to advanced care.
India’s healthcare system is recognized for its highly skilled fertility specialists and state-of-the-art medical infrastructure. Numerous hospitals across the country are equipped with modern facilities for intricate procedures like TESE and Micro-TESE. Patients can feel confident in receiving expert care from experienced teams.
India stands as a viable and reputable destination for specialized male infertility treatments.
What is TESE / Micro-TESE?
Testicular Sperm Extraction (TESE) and Microdissection TESE (Micro-TESE) are surgical procedures performed to retrieve sperm directly from the testicles. These methods are primarily used for men diagnosed with non-obstructive azoospermia, a condition where no sperm are found in the ejaculate due to impaired sperm production. The retrieved sperm are then used for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) or Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI).
Types of Sperm Retrieval Procedures
Different approaches exist for testicular sperm retrieval, depending on the individual's specific condition:
- Conventional TESE: Involves taking small biopsies from various areas of the testis to find sperm. It's a simpler, less invasive method compared to Micro-TESE.
- Microdissection TESE (Micro-TESE): Performed using a high-powered operating microscope to precisely identify and extract seminiferous tubules that are more likely to contain sperm. This method helps minimize tissue removal and potential damage.
- Testicular Biopsy: Sometimes performed diagnostically to determine the cause of azoospermia or to assess sperm production before a retrieval procedure.
- Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (PESA) / Micro-Epididymal Sperm Aspiration (MESA): These are used when sperm production is normal but there's an obstruction preventing sperm release. They retrieve sperm from the epididymis, not the testis itself.
When is TESE / Micro-TESE Required?
- Diagnosis of non-obstructive azoospermia.
- Severe male factor infertility where ejaculated sperm is absent or insufficient.
- Previous unsuccessful attempts at conventional sperm retrieval.
- Absence of vas deferens (congenital bilateral absence of the vas deferens).
- Men who have undergone vasectomy reversal failures.
- Cases where genetic factors affect sperm production.
Pre-Treatment Evaluation for Sperm Retrieval
- Detailed medical history and physical examination.
- Hormonal blood tests (FSH, LH, Testosterone, Prolactin).
- Genetic screening (karyotyping, Y-chromosome microdeletion).
- Scrotal ultrasound to assess testicular anatomy.
- Semen analysis to confirm azoospermia.
- Previous fertility treatment records review.
How TESE / Micro-TESE is Performed
The specific approach for testicular sperm retrieval is chosen based on the patient’s diagnosis and the surgeon’s expertise. Both TESE and Micro-TESE are outpatient procedures, typically performed under general anesthesia.
The Surgical Steps:
- Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered to ensure comfort throughout the procedure.
- Incision: A small incision is made in the scrotum to access the testicle.
- Tissue Retrieval (TESE): For conventional TESE, multiple small tissue samples are taken from different areas of the testicle.
- Microscopic Search (Micro-TESE): For Micro-TESE, the surgeon uses an operating microscope to meticulously examine the testicular tissue, identifying enlarged seminiferous tubules that are more likely to contain sperm. Only these specific tubules are extracted.
- Sperm Search: The retrieved testicular tissue is immediately taken to an embryology laboratory. Highly skilled embryologists process the tissue and search for viable sperm under a microscope.
- Closure: Once sufficient sperm are retrieved or the search is complete, the incisions are carefully closed.
- Cryopreservation: Any successfully retrieved sperm are immediately prepared for either fresh use with IVF/ICSI or cryopreserved (frozen) for future use.
Recovery Process After TESE / Micro-TESE
After TESE or Micro-TESE, most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the scrotal area for a few days. Pain medication will be prescribed to manage this. Patients are advised to rest, avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and sexual intercourse for at least one to two weeks to allow for proper healing. Ice packs can help reduce swelling. Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing and discuss the results of sperm retrieval. Most men can resume normal light activities within a week.
Risks and Success Rates of Sperm Retrieval
- Temporary pain, swelling, or bruising in the scrotum.
- Risk of infection at the incision site, though rare with proper care.
- Formation of a hematoma (blood collection) or seroma (fluid collection).
- Damage to testicular blood supply or testicular atrophy (very rare).
- Failure to find sperm, despite careful search.
The success rate of TESE and Micro-TESE in retrieving sperm varies significantly based on the underlying cause of azoospermia, the surgeon's experience, and the quality of the embryology laboratory. For Micro-TESE, retrieval rates can range from 40% to 60% or even higher in certain conditions. The presence of retrieved sperm does not guarantee a successful pregnancy, as this depends on subsequent IVF/ICSI outcomes and female factor infertility. Long-term impacts on testicular function are generally minimal, especially with Micro-TESE.
Cost of TESE / Micro-TESE in India
The cost of TESE or Micro-TESE in India can vary depending on several factors. These include the hospital's reputation and facilities, the surgeon's expertise, the type of procedure (conventional TESE vs. Micro-TESE), the need for associated procedures like IVF/ICSI, and the duration of hospital stay. Additional costs might cover diagnostic tests, medications, and post-operative care.
Generally, the cost for TESE / Micro-TESE in India can range from approximately INR 80,000 to INR 2,50,000.
TESE / Micro-TESE Cost Across Indian Cities
| City |
Estimated Cost Range (INR) |
| Delhi |
90,000 - 2,40,000 |
| Mumbai |
1,00,000 - 2,50,000 |
| Chennai |
85,000 - 2,20,000 |
| Bengaluru |
95,000 - 2,30,000 |
| Hyderabad |
80,000 - 2,10,000 |
| Kolkata |
75,000 - 2,00,000 |
| Ahmedabad |
80,000 - 2,05,000 |
| Pune |
88,000 - 2,25,000 |
Comparing TESE / Micro-TESE Costs Globally
| Country |
Estimated Cost Range (USD) |
| India |
1,000 - 3,000 |
| USA |
8,000 - 15,000 |
| UK |
6,000 - 10,000 |
| Singapore |
5,000 - 9,000 |
| Thailand |
4,000 - 7,000 |
Considering TESE / Micro-TESE treatment in India? Reach out to our patient support team today. We provide comprehensive guidance tailored for international patients, ensuring you have all the information needed for a confident decision.
Support Services for International Patients
- Assistance with medical visa applications and extensions.
- Arrangement of comfortable accommodation close to your chosen hospital.
- Facilitation of airport transfers and local transportation during your stay.
- Provision of language interpreters to ensure clear communication with medical staff.
- Coordination of all medical appointments, tests, and procedures.
- Guidance on post-treatment follow-up and recovery care planning.
Essential Documents for Your Medical Journey to India
- Valid passport and medical visa.
- All relevant medical reports, diagnostic tests, and referral letters from your home country.
- Marriage certificate, as it is often required for fertility treatments in India.
- Copies of any previous treatment records or consultations.
- Identity proof and address proof for accompanying family members.
Preparing for Your TESE / Micro-TESE Procedure
- Follow all dietary and medication instructions provided by your doctor, especially regarding fasting.
- Inform your medical team about any current medications, supplements, or allergies.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking for a period before the procedure as advised by your physician.
- Arrange for comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for your hospital visit and recovery.
- Ensure all travel and accommodation logistics are confirmed prior to your arrival.
Post-Treatment Care and Recovery Guidelines
- Adhere strictly to prescribed pain medication and antibiotic schedules.
- Keep the incision site clean and dry; follow wound care instructions meticulously.
- Avoid strenuous physical activity, heavy lifting, and sexual activity as advised.
- Wear supportive underwear to minimize discomfort and swelling.
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your fertility specialist.
- Report any signs of infection, increased pain, or unusual swelling immediately.
Ready to explore your options for TESE / Micro-TESE in India? Connect with our dedicated patient coordinators. We are here to provide personalized support, answer your questions, and facilitate your entire medical journey with compassion and expertise.
Taking Your Next Step Towards Parenthood
Understanding your treatment options for male infertility is a significant step. India offers advanced TESE and Micro-TESE procedures with experienced specialists and supportive care environments for patients from the UAE.
