Vasectomy: Can I Reverse It?
organ close to the testicle where sperm mature. Whether you get a simple or complex reversal depends on when you underwent a vasectomy, fluid seen during the procedure and your surgeon’s expertise.
It’s important to choose a surgeon skilled in both simple and complex reversal. You also should keep in mind that the outcomes of both procedures differ. The simple reversal has a more than 90-95% chance of seeing sperm return compared a 50-60% chance for complex reversal.
Why reverse a Vasectomy?
There are many reasons a man would undergo a reversal, including a new relationship, a change of heart, loss of wife or child, and chronic post-vasectomy pain. Medical research and technological advances now have made vasectomy reversal a safe and worthwhile option for anyone considering it either to regain fertility or for post vasectomy pain.
My problem is pain after Vasectomy. Is this common?
Post-vasectomy pain affects up to 15% of all men that have had a vasectomy. The symptoms can vary from minor irritation in the scrotum to intractable pain in the testicle, groin, abdomen or penis. The pain may even affect sexual activity and sensation. In this case, it is critical to speak with an expert on post-vasectomy pain to see if a reversal is a good option for you.
How Vasectomy Reversal works:
The procedure is generally done on an outpatient basis and can take two to three hours. We administer general anesthesia to ensure minimal movement. The procedure begins with a small incision into the scrotum and isolation of the vas at the site of its division. We then analyze the fluid from the end closer to the testicle. If doctors see sperm, then we perform a simple reversal. If there is no sperm, then we may perform a complex reversal. We also use a robotic platform or microscope to help reconnect the ends. Once the procedure is complete, we close the incisions and reverse the anesthesia.
How Vasectomy Reversal works:
The procedure is generally done on an outpatient basis and can take two to three hours. We administer general anesthesia to ensure minimal movement. The procedure begins with a small incision into the scrotum and isolation of the vas at the site of its division. We then analyze the fluid from the end closer to the testicle. If doctors see sperm, then we perform a simple reversal. If there is no sperm, then we may perform a complex reversal. We also use a robotic platform or microscope to help reconnect the ends. Once the procedure is complete, we close the incisions and reverse the anesthesia.
What to expect after the procedure:
Every surgeon will have unique post-operative instructions. In general, you should rest for a few days after the procedure. You may experience swelling and pain around the incision. Scrotal support and light activity are recommended for at least four weeks. In a few weeks, your doctor will give you the okay to start ejaculation to allow sperm to flow through the tubes again. He or she may perform a semen analysis to confirm the presence of sperm in your ejaculate; with follow-up tests every few months to ensure there are no obstruction. There is a small risk of scarring at the reversal site, so checking for sperm is critical to ensure continued fertility.
When will we achieve a pregnancy?
We generally see sperm in the ejaculate six to eight weeks after the procedure. However, it sometimes can take longer. Achieving a pregnancy after vasectomy reversal depends on many factors, including the partners’ age, time from vasectomy, type of reversal performed, and concentration of sperm on the semen analysis. It can take up to one year to achieve a pregnancy.
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