The recovery process following a vasectomy reversal is different from that following a vasectomy. It is important to remember that a vasectomy reversal is a longer and more complex surgical procedure than the vasectomy itself when planning for the recovery. The vasectomy reversal involves larger incisions along with a general anesthesia, the affects of which can last up to five hours. For these reasons, even through vasectomy reversal is usually a day surgery procedure, the patient is watched closely in the recovery area for two or more hours after the procedure is complete.

As with any procedure involving anesthesia, someone will be needed to drive the patient home and remain with him for a few hours following the procedure. The surgeon or nurse will give instructions at the time of discharge. These will include wearing a supportive under garment such as an athletic supporter for several days and applying an ice pack to the area of the incisions for forty eight hours. Both of these measures will reduce pain and swelling in the immediate post operative period.

Following vasectomy reversal patients are advised to lie down with legs elevated for the first two days. Minimal activity is advised for four to five days. Those with a desk type job can return to work in the first week but all vasectomy reversal patients should avoid heavy lifting and straining for three to four weeks. It is recommended patients avoid sexual intercourse and ejaculation for four weeks following vasectomy reversal surgery.

By the sixth week following surgery most patients are back to their usual activities with no problems. Around this time is when the first post operative semen analysis is scheduled. It is important to remember, while sperm in the seminal fluid return gradually and maybe absent or only present in low numbers at this point, a sexual partner can still become pregnant. If pregnancy is not desired at this time, contraception should be used.

Success of vasectomy reversal depends on the number of years that have passed from the original procedure. In men who had their vasectomy less than three years before the reversal, the return of sperm to the semen is 97% and pregnancy rates are 76%. In men who had a vasectomy 15 or more years before their reversal, the return of sperm is 71% and the pregnancy rate is 30%. Success rates are also lower in men who required an vasoepididymostomy.