Unlike a vasectomy, most insurance plans do not cover the cost of reversal surgery, which can range from about $5,000 to $13,000. Although this is usually an elective, fee-for-service procedure, there are ways to make this expense more affordable.

Consider alternative financing options.

A reversal is often a good option for a couple to consider first because it is less costly, and is regarded as "more natural," and potentially more effective, than assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs) that rely on aspirated sperm and the additional cost of in vitro fertilization attempts. While a vasectomy reversal is an important investment in your family, you should investigate costs carefully.

Delicate, precision micro-surgery.

Factors which determine the cost of a vasectomy reversal include the complexity and time it takes to perform microsurgery, the use of general anesthesia and the services of an anesthesiologist, and longer post operative care and testing. However, most reversals are done at an outpatient surgical center and the cost for this kind of care is less than a hospital stay.

Unlike a vasectomy, a reversal requires delicate microsurgery and is performed under a powerful microscope. The surgeon must reconnect - in either single or multiple layers of sutures no thicker than a human hair-the cut ends of the vas deferens: the small tubes that carry sperm from the man's testicles. The rejoined vas can again form an open channel for sperm to become part of the semen ejaculated at orgasm.

This most common procedure is known as a "vasovasostomy," and is performed if sperm are detected in the fluid inside the vas after initial incision is made.

If a blockage (caused by increased pressure in the epididymis) is suspected, this blockage must be bypassed in an alternate form of vasectomy reversal known as a "vasoepididymostomy." This type of procedure is more complex and time-consuming than a standard vasovasostomy, and this may increase overall the cost of your vasectomy reversal.

Affordability options to consider.

Insurance
It is unlikely that vasectomy reversal surgery will be covered by your health insurance, but you should always check with your insurance company, HMO or health plan.

Cash
Making your payment in cash is often the next best option to consider. By creating a special savings program in your household budget, you can accumulate the total amount necessary. Sometimes a full cash payment in advance earns a small discount on the total cost of your vasectomy reversal.

Credit Cards
Most medical offices accept major credit cards, such as Visa® or MasterCard®. While this makes payment over time more convenient, it is also likely that you will incur an interest or finance charge by the credit card company.

Medical financing services: Some physicians may work with lending agencies which specialize in financing for noninsured medical services. Interest rates and terms of payment are determined by the lending agency, and may be more costly than a competitive credit card.

In Summary:

• A vasectomy reversal is not usually covered under health insurance and can be costly: between $5,000 and $13,000, depending on many factors.
• Consider paying with cash, loan or credit within your household budget.

Check out related pages from vasectomy.com…

• Sperm Bank? A Valuable Option
• Vasectomy Reversal: The Path of Natural Conception
• How Much Will it Cost?
• Success Factors: Will a Reversal Work?
• How to Choose a Urologist in Your Area
• Reversal Microsurgery: Questions & Answers
• What Women Want to Know
• What to Expect After the Procedure
• Try Again? Second Attempt Reversal
• Methods of Contraception – Comparison Chart
• VASECTOMY QUICK FACTS