If you've had a vasectomy, the last thing that you are looking forward to is a vasectomy reversal. Vasectomies are normally considered a permanent form of birth control. Reversals can be expensive and complicated surgical procedures, and success is not always guaranteed. But many doctors report very high success rates from vasectomy reversals.

Vasectomy

A vasectomy prevents the release of sperm when you ejaculate. During a vasectomy, the vas deferens, the tube that carries sperm from the testicle, is cut or clamped. After your vasectomy, you were still able to ejaculate, but your semen didn't contain any sperm. In a vasectomy reversal, the vas deferens is sewn back together or attached directly to the testicle so sperm can once again enter the semen.

Costs

Vasectomies are relatively simple procedures. By contrast, a vasectomy reversal requires use of surgical microscopes and microscopic sutures. And vasectomy reversals usually aren't covered by insurance. The cost can vary strongly depending on your surgeon and the cost can run anywhere from $8,000 to $20,000.

Success Rates

The success rate of vasectomy reversals is determined by the length of time that has gone by since your vasectomy was performed. That's because men who have had vasectomies, and several years have passed, they are more likely to require a more complex and challenging form of reversal procedure.

In the most common form of reversal, your surgeon simply sews together the severed ends of the vas deferens. But in some cases, blockages have formed in the vas deferens or the tube between the vas and the testicle, known as the epididymis. If that happens, then the vas deferens must be directly connected to the epididymis. This procedure is known as a vasoepididymostomy.

The longer time that has elapsed since your vasectomy the greater the chance that a blockage has occurred. Unfortunately, there's no way of knowing until you are in surgery whether or not you will need a simple reversal or a more complex vasoepidymosotomy.

Anesthesia

For vasectomy reversal general anesthesia is used. Vasectomy reversal can take up to 3 hours to complete. General anesthesia maximizes patient comfort during the procedure.

Your will be discharged to go home on the same day of your surgery. Discomfort can vary but typically it is more intense than when you had the original vasectomy. Pain medication will be prescribed. Most of your discomfort will usually be resolved within 3 to 4 days. Strenuous activity such as lifting more than 10 pounds, running or jogging is not recommended for 4 weeks after surgery. Sexual activity can be resumed four weeks after surgery.

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