Urologists know that informed patients make the best surgical candidates. That’s because couples who take the time to learn about vasectomy reversal techniques and options have reasonable expectations and ultimately higher post-operative satisfaction.
Men and their partners are encouraged to use the resources provided throughout this website to get valuable vasectomy reversal facts.
Here is a helpful checklist of the most frequently asked questions about vasectomy reversal techniques. Compare this list with your own concerns and explore the vasectomy reversal quick facts and other site pages for additional information and other topics of interest.
Always discuss your questions and concerns with your doctor.

#1 - What is a vasectomy reversal?

A vasectomy reversal is a microsurgical procedure performed by a urologic surgeon to reverse sterility caused by a vasectomy. Statistics tell us that of the half million men who opt for a vasectomy each year, approximately five to ten percent will later elect to look into vasectomy reversal options.

Vasectomy reversal techniques involve reconnecting - in either single or multiple layers - the cut ends of the vas deferens, the small tubes that carry sperm from the man's testicles.  The rejoined vas once again becomes a passageway for semen.
There are generally two vasectomy reversal options. The first, a procedure known as vasovasostomy, is indicated when sperm is detected inside the vas fluid after the initial incision.
If sperm has not been detected, a blockage (causing increased pressure) in the epididymis is suspected. An alternative procedure known as vasoepididymostomy is used to by-pass the blockage. 

#2 - Which vasectomy reversal techniques have better success rates?

Vasectomy reversal statistics show that the most common of the vasectomy reversal techniques, the vasovasostomy, offers greater success rates than does the more complex vasoepididymostomy.

As time passes, the statistical likelihood of a pregnancy following a reversal declines. Vasectomy reversal statistics show the most significant decline occurs at 15 years or more, when pregnancy rates typically drop to about 30%. Vasectomy reversal resources all point to the same conclusion: The more recent the vasectomy, the greater the likelihood of success.

Another thing to consider is that, over time, the body's natural response to accumulated sperm in the testicles may result in damage to the shape, number and motility of sperm. The sperm potency (number and quality of sperm released in seminal fluid) are just as important as the reestablishment (patency) of the connection. 
A physical examination prior to surgery can sometimes indicate which type of surgery you should have.

#3- How much does a reverse vasectomy cost?

You can expect the reverse vasectomy cost to vary between practices and states. Vasectomy reversal techniques require hours of microsurgery and general anesthesia with the services of an anesthesiologist. Patient financing for this elective surgery may be a helpful option for some families.

The costs to reverse vasectomies range from $6,000 to $15,000 and most insurance plans do not cover them. However, reversal procedures are considered more natural, generally more effective and cost much less than Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ARTs), which rely on aspirated sperm and in-vitro fertilization.

#4 – How much time should be allotted for a reversal procedure and the recovery process?

Vasectomy reversal techniques are time-intensive and complex. The vasovasostomy procedure can take 2 to 5 hours while a vasoepididymostomy, when needed, can lengthen surgery by another couple of hours . Both procedures usually involve general or regional anesthesia, which typically adds time to the initial recovery period.

Use these vasectomy reversal resources for general guidelines, but be sure to discuss any specifics about this or any other vasectomy reversal questions with your doctor.
Including the paperwork and preparation, the entire outpatient procedure may take about six hours or more.

Most of the routine recovery takes about four weeks. This begins when you are taken to a recovery area and your doctor determines that it is safe for you to travel. (Remember: After surgery you will need someone to drive you home.)

For at least the first 24 hours following reversal surgery, you can expect to remain on bed rest. Your doctor will advise the use of an ice pack on the scrotal area for one or two days and tell you to keep all activities to a minimum for approximately four to five days. You will want to avoid heavy lifting or physical exertion for three to four weeks.

Most doctors will recommend that you should not attempt ejaculation for up to 30 days. Schedule an appointment with your doctor within that time period. Thereafter, you will be asked to provide semen specimens that show active sperm.
To learn more, check out “what to expect after your vasectomy reversal” and be sure to follow your doctor's instructions.

#5 - How effective are vasectomy reversal techniques?

It’s important to note that fertility is not instantly restored after surgery. It can take several months, and in some cases over a year before the reversal can be counted a success. About 40 to 75 percent of all men can expect to father a child again.  The success rate is significantly higher in couples who have had children together already.
If the first reversal is not ultimately successful, fertility is still possible with second attempt reversal or a “re-do” reversal.
Sperm can also be surgically retrieved for use in-vitro fertility or harvested during reversal surgery and then the sperm is banked for future use. In cases where sperm is coming through the new connection, but the quality is poor, or pregnancy has not occurred, artificial insemination is still a viable option. If necessary, in-vitro fertility can be performed using the ejaculated sperm as long as there are even only a few live sperm in the semen.

#6 - Can I expect changes in my sex life or genital appearance?

This is one of the most common vasectomy reversal questions that both men and women want to know about before going forward with surgery.
An effective vasectomy reversal simply allows sperm to rejoin the seminal stream during ejaculation. It should not affect sexual drive or the ability to have an erection and orgasm. In other words, it should not affect you and your partner’s ability to have and enjoy sex.
Sperm is only a small fraction of the total liquid in your semen. The characteristics of the fluid - the amount, color and texture do not appear to change once your seminal fluid contains sperm again.

Postoperative wounds are generally nothing to worry about. The scrotum heals very well. Although the incision site may be larger than for a vasectomy, it is still small and hard to detect on an unshaven scrotum.

In the case of a large gap from a vasectomy, a reversal may result in the testicles sitting higher in the scrotum. This is hardly perceptible and rarely results in any long-term discomfort.

A vasectomy reversal, like a vasectomy itself, should not affect or inhibit you physically.
One of your best vasectomy reversal resources will be your doctor, so be sure to avoid postoperative anxiety by talking openly with your doctor about your concerns.

#7 - What about risks or complications?

There are risks and potential complications with any medical procedure and you should ask your doctor to go over these with you carefully. While microsurgical vasectomy reversal techniques are complex and delicate procedures, they do not pose high risks for serious complications.

Postoperative pain following your surgery is comparable to what you experienced after vasectomy. Your recovery period is longer, however, and you should promote your healing process by not over-doing any physical activity and getting the proper rest.

Depending on your physician's preference, antibiotics may or may not be prescribed following the procedure. However, if you develop a fever and increased tenderness or swelling at the surgical site, you can expect that your doctor will prescribe a course of antibiotics.

With adequate rest, the generous use of an ice bag and over-the-counter pain relievers, as needed, you’ll be on the right path to a complete and uncomplicated recovery.

#8 - Are there factors concerning my vasectomy that can influence the success of a reversal?

Vasectomy reversal statistics indicate that the success of reversal surgery often depends on the type and amount of damage done to the vas deferens tubes at the time of your sterilization surgery. It is much easier to rejoin the vas tubes that were simply cut and returned to the scrotal sac. Cauterization following cutting of the vas tubes produces a highly effective sterilization. The cauterization poses a somewhat greater challenge to the chance of a successful reversal.
The presence of a sperm granuloma is associated with a reduced chance of blockage of the epididymis. The granuloma, when present, frequently avoids a vasoepididymostomy becoming necessary and allows the standard vasovasostomy to be performed with its higher chance of success.

#9 - How long will I be in the hospital?

A vasectomy reversal is normally a same-day, outpatient procedure. If your physician uses an outpatient surgical center, you will not spend any time in a hospital. You can go home after your doctor determines that you are able to travel safely.

#10 - How soon can I start having sex after my reversal surgery?

You should not attempt erection or ejaculation during your recovery period. At the most, you may have to wait about a month before you are comfortable and recovered enough to have sex.

In Summary:

• Make an informed decision by using all the vasectomy reversal resources available to you. Be prepared to ask questions prior to surgery and take your partner to your consultation with the doctor.
• Vasectomy reversal techniques are complex microsurgical procedures that can take two to six  hours to perform.
• Reverse vasectomy cost varies from state to state. You can expect it to cost between $6,000 and $15,000.
• According to vasectomy reversal statistics, 40 to 75 percent of men who’ve had reversals can look forward to fathering a child.
• Regardless of which vasectomy reversal options you choose, it’s important to remember that results will not be immediate; it may be months or more before fertility and a normal sperm count is restored.
• Reversals should not change your ability to have an erection or enjoy sex.
• Vasectomy reversal procedures are considered safe with low risk for complications. Generally, recovery time is about 4 weeks.
• Your physician is a great source of vasectomy reversal facts. There are many success factors that your doctor can help you evaluate.
• Learn more quick facts about vasectomy reversals.