If you have experienced the frustration and disappointment of an unsuccessful reversal procedure, you may want to ask a vasectomy reversal doctor if another attempt is worthwhile.

Generally, vasectomy reversal success rates for a second reversal are slightly lower than for first-time procedures. This is usually because the vas has been obstructed longer and scarring increases each time surgery is performed.

The good news is that an unsuccessful first reversal attempt can sometimes be successful the second time around. The following information can help you understand the reasons why the first reversal was unsuccessful and some factors to consider if you are thinking about a second attempt reversal.

When the First Attempt Fails

Vasectomy reversal success rates are influenced by several things. Factors that include success are:

Second Attempt Vasectomy Reversal Techniques

Generally, if your vasectomy reversal doctor finds the vas deferens have little damage caused by the original vasectomy reversal surgery, the chances of a successful second attempt reversal are greater.

Once the condition of the vas deferens has been determined, the surgeon must choose which of the vasectomy reversal techniques to proceed with.

When the vas deferens appears healthy and the first attempt didn’t produce a lot of scar tissue a vasovasostomy is usually performed. However, if injury to the vas deferens is more extensive, or if scarring or blockage of the epididymis is suspected or detected, vasectomy reversal techniques become more complicated and lengthy. In such cases, vasectomy reversal surgeons may opt for vasoepididymostomy for the second reversal.

This procedure attempts to bypass the obstructed or damaged portion of the vas in order to successfully reconnect the tiny tubes at a higher point near the epididymis. Vasoepididymostomy can result in a successful outcome. It’s important to note that men, who needed a vasoepididymostomy as the first reversal procedure, will not be the best candidates for a second attempt reversal.

Vasectomy Reversal Surgeons

A reversal is a meticulous microsurgical procedure that normally takes several hours. Vasectomy reversal techniques usually require a powerful surgical microscope. Precision and accuracy are crucial to vasectomy reversal success rates.

Vasectomy reversal surgeons use delicate suture material that is finer than the thickness of a human hair to stitch through multiple, microscopic layers of tissue. The effective reconnection of the vas tubes requires many tiny sutures. Consequently, an experienced board-certified vasectomy reversal doctor or a fertility specialist usually performs the surgery.

What’s more, an experienced vasectomy reversal doctor, will know what to look for and can quickly recognize which reversal procedures are indicated during a second attempt reversal.

Are You a Good Candidate for "Redo" Surgery?

Likely candidates for vasectomy reversal "redo" surgery are patients who are generally in good health and who evidenced healthy sperm in the seminal fluid somewhere in the vas or epididymis during their first reversal surgery.

If healthy sperm exists, failure of the initial reversal may have been the result of other factors. Consequently, these candidates should ask their vasectomy reversal doctor about redoing the reversal surgery.

However, some men may not be good candidates for a second attempt or "redo" surgery. If there is excessive scarring and damage from the first procedure, vasectomy reversal surgeons may not consider a second attempt to be worth trying. When an initial reversal has left the vas deferens too short, reconnection, even when using the most advanced vasectomy reversal techniques is more difficult. A re-do operation may not be a good option in this case and patients should take time to understand vasectomy reversal alternatives.

Discuss the Options with Your Vasectomy Reversal Doctor

Everyone’s health and circumstances are unique and you should discuss the details of your case with a qualified and experienced surgeon.

Positive vasectomy reversal success rates are possible with a second attempt.

In Summary:

• Vasectomy reversal success rates are influenced by many factors and chances of success with second attempts are slightly lower than first time reversals.
• Vasectomy reversal techniques used in second attempt surgery are determined by such things as overall health, evidence of healthy sperm and the extent of scarring. Your vasectomy reversal doctor will select the best option for you.
• Skilled, board-certified urologists or fertility experts who specialize as vasectomy reversal surgeons often perform second attempt reversals.
• Men with minimal scarring, blockage or damage from prior surgery, who show evidence of healthy, potent seminal fluid make the best candidates for reversal "redo" surgery.