What is a vasectomy reversal?
Every year, more than 500,000 men in the U.S. choose to undergo a vasectomy as a very effective form of birth control.
About 6% of men who have had a vasectomy later wish to have children. A minimally invasive vasectomy reversal is a surgical procedure designed to restore fertility in men who have previously undergone a vasectomy.
At Tower Urology, our urologists specialize in advanced techniques that maximize success rates while minimizing discomfort and recovery time.
Why is a vasectomy reversal performed?
Vasectomy reversal surgery is performed to reconnect the vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm. After the tubes are reconnected, sperm can re-enter the ejaculate. The goal is to restore natural fertility and provide men with the opportunity to father children after a vasectomy.
Who is an ideal candidate for vasectomy reversal?
Ideal candidates for minimally invasive vasectomy reversal include:
- Men who have previously undergone a vasectomy and wish to regain fertility.
- Those in good general health with no significant medical conditions that might complicate surgery.
- Men whose partners have been evaluated for fertility and are capable of conceiving naturally.
How is our vasectomy reversal performed?
Our vasectomy reversal procedure involves:
- Preparation: For your comfort, you are given a local anesthetic or placed under general anesthesia.
- Microsurgical Techniques: Using a high-powered operating microscope, your surgeon expertly reconnects the ends of the vas deferens, ensuring proper alignment. This image will give you a better idea of what your surgeon will do during the vasectomy reversal.
- Minimizing Tissue Damage: Our advanced techniques reduce scarring and improve outcomes.
The procedure typically lasts two to four hours. It is performed in an operating room on an outpatient basis so that you can go home the same day.
What is the success rate of a vasectomy reversal?
A successful vasectomy reversal depends on several factors, such as how long ago you had your original vasectomy and your overall health. It is important to keep in mind that male infertility naturally increases with age.
About 40% to 60% of our patients successfully conceive, with the best chances for success being for patients whose reversal surgery was performed within 10 years of the vasectomy; our patients’ patency rate (the amount of sperm in the ejaculate) is usually 80-90%.
What are the risk factors for a vasectomy reversal?
Minimally invasive vasectomy reversal is considered very safe. As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks, such as mild swelling or bruising at the surgical site, infection, and not achieving the desired fertility outcomes. However, Tower Urology’s advanced surgical techniques minimize such risks.
What is the recovery from a vasectomy reversal like?
Recovery from our minimally invasive vasectomy reversal is typically quick.
Immediate post-operative issues are minor
Most patients experience mild discomfort, which is managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
A prompt return to activities
Light activities can resume within a few days, and everyday activities within one to two weeks.
A delay in returning to sexual activity
Our patients are generally advised to avoid sexual activity for four to six weeks after surgery. This length of time is recommended to allow proper healing.
Are there other procedures to consider instead of vasectomy reversal?
Minimally invasive vasectomy reversal is often the preferred choice for men who want to achieve natural conception. But for men who are not ideal candidates for vasectomy reversal or prefer alternatives, other options include:
Sperm Retrieval and IVF
Sperm can be retrieved surgically for use in in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Donor Sperm
In cases where natural conception is not feasible or vasectomy reversal was not successful, this is an important option to consider.
Advice for patients considering this procedure
A vasectomy reversal is a highly personal decision, and it’s important to have realistic expectations. While the procedure has high success rates, we remind patients that the outcome depends on factors such as overall health and the time since the vasectomy. At Tower Urology, we ensure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision and feel supported throughout the process.
What makes Tower Urology your best choice for vasectomy reversal in Los Angeles?
At Tower Urology, we take a personalized, evidence-based approach to general urology care. All our professionals are committed to providing expert care and follow-up. We take the time to understand you and personalize your treatment plan to your needs.
We invite you to establish care with Tower Urology.
Tower Urology is a proud affiliate of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, ranked #1 in California and #2 nationwide by U.S. News & World Report. This partnership reflects our dedication to delivering the highest standard of urologic care alongside the best urologists in Los Angeles. Our years of experience and access to Cedars-Sinai’s world-class facilities ensure that our exceptional and innovative urological care positions Tower Urology as a leader in Southern California.
Tower Urology is conveniently located for patients throughout Southern California and Los Angeles, including Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Culver City, Hollywood, Venice, Marina del Rey, Burbank, Glendale, and Downtown Los Angeles.
Our services include treatment/services for low testosterone, chronic pelvic pain, chronic testicular pain, Peyronie’s disease, and vasectomy.
Vasectomy reversal FAQs
A vasectomy reversal typically costs between $6,000 and $15,000, depending on the surgeon, procedure type, and location. Additional fees for anesthesia, consultation, or sperm freezing may apply. Insurance usually does not cover this procedure. The reason is that most insurance companies consider vasectomy reversal an elective procedure rather than a medically necessary one.
No. After long-term vasectomy (over 20 years), significant changes occur in the reproductive system, including:
- The testis continues to produce sperm, but at reduced levels compared to pre-vasectomy
- A 20-40% reduction in spermatid numbers may occur in the years following vasectomy.
- The body reaches a “static equilibrium” between sperm production and reabsorption.
