Many patients who have had a vasectomy ask, “Can you undo a vasectomy?” The answer is yes. A physician can undo a vasectomy through a vasectomy reversal procedure.
If you are considering undoing your vasectomy, schedule a consultation with our expert urologists at Urology of Greater Atlanta (UGATL). Our highly skilled urologists will be able to assess your individual case and advise you on the best course of treatment. Contact us today to book an appointment!
Vasectomy and Vasectomy Reversal
A vasectomy reversal is a surgical procedure that restores fertility after a vasectomy. During a vasectomy, the vas deferens, or the tube that carries sperm from the testicles, are cut and sealed. Vasectomy reversal reconnects these tubes so that healthy sperm can once again be ejaculated.
Preparing for the Procedure
Before undergoing a vasectomy reversal surgery, your doctor will review your medical history and discuss your fertility goals.
It’s important to follow any pre-operative instructions provided by your surgeon. These may include avoiding certain medications, arranging for transportation on the day of surgery (since general anesthesia is often used), and planning for a short recovery period afterward.
What Are the Reasons for Having a Vasectomy Reversed?
There are several reasons why a man may want to have a vasectomy reversed, including:
- Wanting to have children
- Changes in relationships
- Regrets about having a vasectomy
- Having pain in the testicles related to a vasectomy
What Happens During a Vasectomy Reversal Procedure?
A vasectomy reversal is an outpatient procedure that reconnects the vas deferens so that sperm can once again mix with semen. This procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes.
The surgery is usually done under general anesthesia, which means you will be asleep during the procedure. The procedure can also be done with local anesthesia. In this case, your physician will numb the area around your scrotum.
The surgeon makes a small cut in the scrotum and finds the vas deferens. The vas deferens are then reconnected either to each other or to the epididymis, the small tube that stores sperm.
If the vasectomy was done a long time ago or if the vas deferens are not accessible, the surgeon may need to connect the vas deferens to another part of the reproductive tract.
This delicate procedure is often performed using microsurgical techniques to ensure the precise alignment of the ends of the vas deferens, which improves the likelihood of a successful vasectomy reversal.
Post-Operative Recovery After a Vasectomy Reversal
After the vasectomy reversal, you will likely need to stay in the hospital overnight. You may have some pain and swelling in your scrotum. You will also be given antibiotics to prevent infection.
Most men can return to work and other everyday activities in about a week. However, it can take up to three months before your sperm count returns to normal levels.
After surgery, it is essential to care for the area where the surgery was performed. Patients can aid their recovery by doing the following:
- Keeping the incision dry for a few days after surgery
- Limiting physical activity that could strain the scrotum, such as biking or jogging
- Waiting to have sex until your doctor says it’s safe to resume sexual activity
- Taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for any pain
- Not wearing tight underwear for a few weeks after surgery
What Are the Results of the Surgery?
The results of a vasectomy reversal can vary, but most men experience an increase in sperm count and the return of sperm to their semen within a few months. The success rate of the surgery depends on factors such as the time since the initial vasectomy, the presence of scar tissue at the vasectomy site, and the ability of the surgeon to perform the microsurgical vasectomy reversal.
The return of sperm levels and pregnancy rates are higher when the reversal is performed soon after a vasectomy. In general, however, about 80% of vasectomies are successful. This means that 8 out of 10 couples will be able to produce sperm and conceive again.
What Are the Risks of the Procedure?
While vasectomy reversal is generally safe, there are some risks associated with the procedure. Potential complications include:
- Infection at the surgical site
- Bleeding or hematoma formation
- Persistent pain or discomfort in the scrotum
- Formation of scar tissue, which could block the tubes that carry sperm
- The possibility of needing additional surgery if the reversal is unsuccessful
Discussing these risks with your surgeon and understanding the likelihood of success, given your individual circumstances, is essential.
How Much Does it Cost to Undo a Vasectomy?
The cost of a vasectomy reversal can vary widely, depending on several factors, such as the surgeon’s fees, the hospital or clinic where the surgery is performed, and whether or not insurance will cover the procedure. In the United States, most vasectomy reversals typically cost between $5,000 and $10,000.
If you have any questions regarding the cost of a vasectomy or the cost of a vasectomy reversal, be sure to consult with a skilled surgeon to discuss your options and understand the risks and potential complications of these procedures.
Book Your Vasectomy Reversal Consultation Today
If you are considering undergoing a vasectomy reversal procedure, schedule a consultation with our highly skilled urologists at Urology of Greater Atlanta. We have multiple locations throughout the state of Georgia to help you with your needs. Contact us today to book a consultation!
