MicroTESE Sperm Retrieval in Cyprus

MicroTESE sperm retrieval is an advanced fertility procedure that may help men experiencing male infertility, particularly those diagnosed with azoospermia or severely reduced sperm production. At Cyprus IVF Centre, experienced specialists use advanced microsurgical techniques to support sperm retrieval for IVF and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment.

Microsurgical testicular sperm extraction, commonly known as MicroTESE, is designed to identify sperm directly from testicular tissue using a specialised operating microscope. The procedure may be considered for men with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), where sperm may not be present in the ejaculate.

Understanding Microsurgical Testicular Sperm Extraction

Microsurgical testicular sperm extraction differs from traditional sperm retrieval methods because it uses a high-powered operating microscope to identify seminiferous tubules that may contain sperm production.

The procedure is performed carefully to minimise damage to surrounding testicular tissue while supporting the identification of areas that may contain sperm.

This sperm retrieval approach may be recommended for men with:

Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA)
Previous unsuccessful sperm retrieval attempts
Severe male infertility
Low sperm production
Failed vasectomy reversal procedures

How the MicroTESE Procedure Is Performed

The procedure is performed in a sterile operating room under general anaesthetic to help ensure patient comfort throughout the surgery.

During the procedure:

A small incision is made to access the testicular tissue.
The surgeon uses an operating microscope to examine the seminiferous tubules.
Tissue samples containing possible sperm production are carefully removed.
The samples are immediately analysed by embryologists to identify viable sperm for sperm retrieval and IVF treatment.

Using an operating microscope allows the surgeon to target areas with active sperm production while reducing unnecessary tissue removal.

MicroTESE and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection ICSI

Sperm retrieved from the testicular tissue is commonly used for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) as part of IVF treatment. ICSI involves injecting a single sperm directly into the egg to support fertilisation.

For couples experiencing male infertility, sperm retrieval combined with ICSI can provide an important fertility treatment option when sperm are not present in the ejaculate.

Finding Sperm with MicroTESE

Finding sperm in men with azoospermia can be challenging, particularly when sperm production is limited. Microsurgical testicular sperm extraction uses microscope-guided precision to help identify seminiferous tubules that may contain sperm.

Compared with traditional sperm retrieval methods such as TESA or standard TESE, this approach may provide improved sperm retrieval rates in men with severe male infertility and non-obstructive azoospermia.

Recovery After MicroTESE Sperm Retrieval

Following the procedure, patients may experience mild swelling or discomfort for several days. Most patients return to light daily activities within a few days after the procedure.

Patients are usually advised to:

Avoid strenuous activity during recovery
Follow post-operative instructions carefully
Attend follow-up fertility consultations
Allow proper healing of the testicular tissue

The medical team at Cyprus IVF Centre provides personalised aftercare guidance following sperm retrieval.

MicroTESE, TESA and TESE

Different sperm retrieval procedures may be recommended depending on the patient’s fertility diagnosis.

TESA

TESA, or testicular sperm aspiration, uses a needle to retrieve sperm directly from the testicle and is generally less invasive.

TESE

TESE, or testicular sperm extraction, involves removing small sections of testicular tissue for sperm retrieval.

MicroTESE

Microsurgical testicular sperm extraction uses an operating microscope for greater precision and may improve outcomes in men with severe male infertility and non-obstructive azoospermia.

Team Miracle Cyprus IVF Centre carefully evaluates each patient to determine the most appropriate sperm retrieval procedure.

Male Infertility Treatment at Cyprus IVF Centre

At Cyprus IVF Centre, we provide personalised male infertility treatment plans based on each patient’s fertility needs and treatment goals.

Our fertility specialists, embryologists and surgical team work together throughout the sperm retrieval and IVF treatment process to support patients seeking advanced fertility care in Cyprus.

Sperm retrieval, IVF treatment and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) are performed using advanced laboratory and surgical techniques within a carefully controlled clinical environment.

1. What is Microsurgical Testicular Sperm Extraction (MicroTESE)?

Microsurgical Testicular Sperm Extraction, or MicroTESE, is a surgical procedure used to retrieve sperm directly from the testicles in men with azoospermia. It uses microscope-guided precision to help locate sperm for IVF or ICSI treatment.

2. Who needs MicroTESE sperm retrieval?

This procedure may be recommended for men with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) or severely reduced sperm production. It may also be considered when previous sperm retrieval methods, such as TESA or TESE, have not been successful.

3. What is the success rate of MicroTESE?

MicroTESE offers sperm retrieval success rates of approximately 50–70% in men with non-obstructive azoospermia. Outcomes depend on the underlying diagnosis, surgical expertise and laboratory support during IVF or ICSI.

4. What is the recovery time after the procedure?

Recovery typically allows patients to resume light activities within 2–3 days after the procedure. Mild swelling or discomfort may occur, and patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity for about 10 days.

5. What is the cost of MicroTESE in Cyprus?

The cost of MicroTESE in Cyprus varies depending on the treatment plan and whether IVF or ICSI is included. Cyprus IVF Centre provides transparent pricing and personalised cost guidance during consultation.