Our Phone Systems are Down
Please contact us the following ways:
- Use PATIENT PORTAL to send a message to your provider
- Click on SCHEDULE APPOINTMENT if you need to be seen.
Vasectomy Reversal
When you decided to have a vasectomy, it was a big decision. Having it reversed is a big decision as well. Life changes, and if you would like a chance at restoring your fertility, a vasectomy reversal surgery could be an option.
How a vasectomy reversal works
When you had your vasectomy, the tubes that carry sperm from the testes and out of the urethra (vas deferens) were severed then obstructed to prevent fertilization. The vas deferens is a tiny tube that carries the sperm from the testicle.
In order to restore fertility through a vasectomy reversal, the cut ends of the vas deferens tubes are reconnected. If successful, sperm will return to the semen. At A.M.P. we have a state-of-the-art surgical microscope that our microsurgeon uses to reconnect these delicate structures.
Chances of success
Success following a vasectomy reversal is defined by the presence of sperm in semen. This does not necessarily translate into a pregnancy, but sperm returning to the semen could open the door for multiple other assisted reproductive techniques, such as intrauterine insemination.
In a large study of 1,500 patients, the success rate correlated with the length of time since vasectomy. The shorter the interval from vasectomy to reversal, the higher the success rate. In men whose obstructed interval was less than 3 years, the likelihood of sperm present in the semen after reversal is as high as 95% and pregnancy was observed in 75% of the partner.
A vasectomy reversal may not always be successful. Reasons that affect the outcome are:
- The length of time since you had your vasectomy procedure. The more time that has passed, the less likely the success of a vasectomy reversal
- Your partner and their age
- Your age
- Any prior surgeries ear the affected area. Examples include a hernia or prostate resection.
After the vasectomy reversal
After about 12 weeks have passed following your vasectomy reversal, you will provide a semen sample to assess for the presence or absence of sperm in your semen.
Frequently asked questions
Does it matter how long it has been since I had a vasectomy?
Yes, it does. The shorter the time interval since your vasectomy, the higher the chance of success. Many factors impact the success rates, and your individualized clinical information will be reviewed in detail during your initial consultation appointment.
Is a vasectomy reversal painful?
After the procedure, patients generally report pain similar to the initial vasectomy. And just like with your initial vasectomy, there are surgical risks like bleeding, infection, chronic pain, etc. This will all be reviewed in detail prior to your scheduling the procedure.
How long following my vasectomy reversal can a couple conceive?
After the initial postoperative period, typically 3-4 weeks, there is a chance that there is enough sperm in your semen that conception could be possible. So if you don’t want a pregnancy immediately, contraception is recommended.
What can I expect throughout the vasectomy reversal experience?
After your initial consultation, if you decide to schedule a vasectomy reversal, you’ll be introduced to our team at our own private surgery center. They will guide you through the process prior to, and after, the surgery. The procedure is outpatient (you don’t need to spend the night), and generally patients are ready to go home within the hour after the procedure is completed. Then, about 3 months later, we’ll order a semen analysis to check for the presence of sperm.
What is the cost for the procedure?
While medical insurance may cover the cost of the initial consultation office visit, most do not cover the cost of the procedure itself. The patient is responsible for the fee, and if the insurance plan does offer coverage, the patient can then submit for reimbursement.