Reversing a Vasectomy: The Decision Process

Should I get a Vasectomy Reversal?

Over the course of a lifetime, approximately five percent of males with a vasectomy will choose to have it reversed. If you have had a vasectomy and would like to have more children, there are a variety of treatments available. A vasectomy reversal is often the most successful and least expensive solution.

Below you will find a wealth of information to help you decide how to proceed when you are thinking about getting a vasectomy reversed

• Reasons for a Vasectomy Reversal

  There are a number of reasons to seek a vasectomy reversal including remarriage and the desire to have more children to build your family. In rare cases, men experience continuous discomfort after a vasectomy. This can occur immediately after the vasectomy surgery or years later. The discomfort might only be successfully treated through a reversal of the vasectomy.

• Pregnancy After a Vasectomy Reversal

  It is advised to receive a vasectomy reversal as soon as you decide to have more children. Even if you plan to conceive later on and not right away, we recommend that you don't postpone the surgery. We have seen cases where sperm returns to the ejaculate within two months after the surgery but it may take up to 12 months to report a stable semen analysis test result.

• Likelihood of Success

  Even though vasectomy reversal success rates are extremely high, there is always a small chance that the return of sperm will take longer than expected or not happen at all. If sperm hasn’t returned to the ejaculate after one year, the reversal is considered unsuccessful. The outcome of a procedure is affected largely by the quality of the previous vasectomy. Another possibility is the production of damaged sperm. Studies also confirm that the more recent the vasectomy, the more likely a patient is to have a successful reversal.

• Additional Conditions Affecting Male Fertility

  To set ideal conditions for a successful vasectomy reversal, other factors may be considered before the procedure such as an elevated FSH level (follicle stimulating hormone), which may be an indication of testicular failure. In addition, factors like testicular atrophy, infertility of the female partner and the details of the vasectomy may affect the ability to conceive after the procedure.

• After the Procedure

  A vasectomy reversal takes about three to five hours. No overnight stay is required, though you will need to be accompanied by an adult for the following twenty-four hours. Right after the surgery ice packs will be placed in the groin area and usually by the second day only over-the-counter pain pills are needed such as Tylenol, Advil or Motrin. Most patients return to work within three days, unless their occupation involves strenuous physical activity or extended periods of driving.

• Vasectomy Reversal Costs

  Vasectomy reversal costs can be anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000, depending on the quality of the original vasectomy and which procedure is necessary. Most reversals are not covered by health insurance, however for many they are the most effective and least expensive option for achieving pregnancy after a vasectomy. Dr. Bastuba works very hard to offer competitive rates, and has put together a fixed-cost fee to inform patients of their costs upfront and eliminate any possible surprise fees or hidden costs. Currently, Dr. Bastuba is offering a reduced fee to help couples achieve their dreams of having a child. There are also helpful resources for insurance and financing.

• Vasectomy Reversal Risks

  Every surgery has some form of risk involved. Severe complications are extremely rare and most patients only experience mild side effects such as bruising, swelling and minor pain. Operative side effects may include infections, bleeding, bruising, swelling, discoloration and pain. There is also the possibility for a delayed scar down. Learn more about possible complications.

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