Vasectomy Reversal

Although vasectomy should be considered an irreversible procedure, this is not technically true.  Changing social circumstances may lead to a new desire for fertility.  If a man has had a vasectomy in the past, the tubes may be reconnected by bypassing the scarred area that is associated with the previous vasectomy.

This is done as an outpatient surgery, usually under general anesthesia.  There are various methods for doing a vasectomy reversal, but we recommend a microscopic, 2 layer technique, as this has been shown to have the best outcome.

Typically, insurance does not cover vasectomy reversal; the cost depends on location but is typically around $5000 for everything, including surgery, anesthesia, etc.

Advantages:

  • Much less expensive than IVF or most reproductive technologies
  • Multiple pregnancies are possible after vasectomy reversal, unlike other reproductive technologies (in which each “cycle” is designed to result in one pregnancy and birth).

Disadvantages:

  • Even if the vas is reconnected, there may be no sperm or sperm in low numbers. This can be because of scarring, chronic congestion, or the development of “anti-sperm antibodies.”  If the vasectomy reversal “fails”, the patient will likely have to go on to IVF or an alternative reproductive technology.
  • Having a vasectomy reversal obviously does not alter any potential problems with the female partner. For example, women over 35 usually have some loss of fertility and so a vasectomy reversal, even if successful, may not lead to pregnancy.