Vasectomy Reversal
Please note that CUC is not performing vasectomy reversals at this time.
Sometimes life changes. You thought you were done having kids, but that’s no longer true. It may be a new relationship. Or, you and your partner just changed your mind. Whatever the reason, a vasectomy reversal may be the answer.
Most people don’t realize how important your surgeon’s experience and training are. It can mean the difference between achieving pregnancy and not. If a successful pregnancy is important to you, don’t settle for anything less than the best.
What is a Vasectomy Reversal?
A vasectomy reversal is a surgery that undoes a vasectomy. Each tube that carries sperm is reconnected to restore fertility.
How successful is a vasectomy reversal?
Everyone’s success rate of conception is different. The skill of the surgeon, age, how long ago you had a vasectomy, and the type of procedure performed will all impact your results.
How is a Vasectomy Reversal Performed?
A Vasectomy Reversal is typically done in the office or at the hospital under general anesthesia with the use of a surgical microscope and microsurgical techniques.
Vasovasostomy
Small incisions are made, one on each side of the scrotum. Then, the two ends of the vas deferens are reconnected.
Vasoepididymostomy
In some cases, one end of the vas deferens needs to be connected to the epididymis. The epididymis is the organ on the back of the testicle where sperm mature. This procedure is called a vasoepididymostomy.
Vasovasostomy vs Vasoepididymostomy
Most of the time, the surgeon will decide which surgical technique to use once the surgery is underway. It’s possible that one surgical technique is best for one side, but not the other. Making the right decision and completing the procedure with precision is critical.
Vasectomy Reversal Success Rates
A vasovasostomy results in the return of sperm to the semen in 70-90% of cases and pregnancy in 30-75% of female partners. Your chances improve with the skill level and experience of your surgeon.
The success rate also depends on how much time has passed since the vasectomy. The longer the time, the less likely pregnancy occurs. Successful pregnancy takes, on average, one year to occur after surgery.
Everyone’s situation is different and your doctor can help you understand your individual chances at conception based on all factors.
Vasectomy Reversal Cost
Vasectomy reversals are not usually covered by insurance. While cost is always a consideration, patients should be careful when comparing price alone. With so much riding on the skill and training of the doctor, vasectomy reversals could be described as “you get what you pay for.”
Lower-cost vasectomy reversals from doctors with less training can lower the chances of success while still having significant out-of-pocket costs. If getting a higher success rate is important to you, investing slightly more now can have big impacts in the future.
Vasectomy Reversal FAQ
My vasectomy was quick and easy – is a vasectomy reversal fast?
Vasectomies are usually performed in-office without the use of general anesthesia. The process of reconnecting the tubes that carry sperm is slightly more complicated. Vasectomy reversals are done under general anesthesia.
Can a vasectomy be reversed after 15 years?
The length of time that has passed since the vasectomy will impact the conception success rate. It’s possible to perform a vasectomy reversal after 15 years or even 20 years, but you should discuss your personal chances of conception success with your surgeon.