Vasectomy Reversal Surgery

Whether the procedure is a success or not depends on a few factors, including how long it has been since you had the vasectomy - as sperm count declines over time – and whether or not you have previously fathered a child. A simple biopsy can be performed to determine hormone levels and sperm count while the chance of having a child also depends greatly on the fertility of your partner, too. Vasectomy reversal cannot be performed under insurance in the US and prices go from $5,000 to $12,000 depending on the procedure. Taking a medical holiday to the likes of Thailand and having vasectomy reversal surgery can greatly reduce this bill.

Vasectomy reversal procedure

There are a couple of procedures for vasectomy reversal surgery and your surgeon will decide which one to perform once he gets a look at your insides. A vasovasostomy is the most common procedure involving the reattachment of the vas deferens ends - the tube that carries the sperm from the scrotum. One rejoined the vas deferens is attached to the epididimis in the scrotum. If there is a blockage after this procedure, the surgeon may need to perform a vasoepididymostomy, which involves stitching the vas deferens directly to the epididimis around the blockage.

The recovery period from vasectomy reversal is longer and more uncomfortable than the vasectomy itself due to the increased length of the procedure. A general anesthetic is usually administered and it takes about two hours; as much as six hours if there are complications. You will also need to spend around two or three hours in the outpatient area. There will be some bruising and swelling for a few days after surgery and a nauseous felling as a result of the anesthetic.

While the discomfort ebbs after the first few days, you should wait at least four weeks before resuming normal activities, including demanding work and heavy lifting. You should wait at least a week before having intercourse but can do so when you feel comfortable, although should be under any illusion that your partner can conceive immediately. The doctor will perform regular sperm counts but it may be as much as six months before sperm reappears. Conception after vasectomy reversal surgery is usually after the first year or as much as two years.

Things to remember:

• Do not drive for the first few days following surgery.
• Wear close-fitting underwear for the first few weeks to keep swelling down.
• Do not have a bath for the first couple of days.
• No heavy lifting or hard exercise for the first four weeks.
• Hold back on having intercourse after surgery.

Possible side effects:

• Post vasectomy pain syndrome, which is a persistent discomfort of unknown origin.
• Fluid build up in the scrotum (hydrocele), which could lead to damage to the testicles (testicular atrophy) and will require further surgery.
• Bleeding inside the scrotum (haematoma), which will require further surgery.
• Pinched nerves causing testicular pain from vasectomy reversal surgery, resulting in further surgery.