A vasectomy reversal is a microsurgical procedure performed by a urologic surgeon to restore a man's fertility after having a vasectomy. Statistics tell us that of the half million men who opt for a vasectomy each year, approximately five to ten percent will later elect to look into vasectomy reversal options.

Vasectomy reversal techniques involve reconnecting the cut ends of the vas deferens, the small tubes that carry sperm from the man's testicles. The rejoined vas once again becomes a passageway for semen.

There are generally two vasectomy reversal options. The first, a procedure known as vasovasostomy, is indicated when sperm is detected inside the vas fluid after the initial incision.

If sperm has not been detected, a blockage (causing increased pressure) in the epididymis is suspected. An alternative procedure known as vasoepididymostomy is used to by-pass the blockage.

Vasectomy reversal statistics show that the most common of the vasectomy reversal techniques, the vasovasostomy, offers greater success rates than does the more complex vasoepididymostomy.

As time passes, the statistical likelihood of a pregnancy following a reversal declines. Vasectomy reversal statistics show the most significant decline occurs at 15 years or more, when pregnancy rates typically drop to about 30 percent. Vasectomy reversal resources all point to the same conclusion: The more recent the vasectomy, the greater the likelihood of success.

Another thing to consider is that, over time, the body's natural response to accumulated sperm in the testicles may result in damage to the shape, number and motility of sperm. The sperm potency (number and quality of sperm released in seminal fluid) is just as important as the reestablishment (patency) of the connection.

A physical examination prior to surgery can sometimes indicate which type of surgery you should have.

The cost for a vasectomy reversal through Dr. Schrepferman is generally around $7,500, far less than the national average that can go as high as $12,000, especially in major cities. This cost is not covered by most medical insurance. For patients who are traveling far from home to see Dr. Schrepferman, our office offers travel packages that offer conveniently located hotels, shuttle service and inexpensive airline service.

Vasectomy reversal techniques are time-intensive and complex. The vasovasostomy procedure can take two to five hours. The procedure involves general anesthesia, which typically adds an additional two to three hours to the post-operative recovery time before a patient can be discharged.

You will be discharged from the hospital the same day as the surgery, once you have been observed post-op. This begins when you are taken to a recovery area and your doctor determines that it is safe for you to travel. (Remember: After surgery you will need someone to drive you home.)

For at least the first 24 hours following reversal surgery, you can expect to remain on bed rest. Your doctor will advise the use of an ice pack on the scrotal area for one or two days and tell you to keep all activities to a minimum for approximately four to five days. With adequate rest, the generous use of an ice bag, and over-the-counter pain relievers, you’ll be on the right path to a complete and uncomplicated recovery. In some cases, Dr. Schrepferman will prescribe a course of antibiotics, which can help prevent postoperative infections. You will want to avoid heavy lifting or physical exertion for three to four weeks.

Most of the routine recovery takes about four weeks. We recommend that you should not attempt ejaculation for up to 30 days. Thereafter, you will be asked to provide semen specimens that show active sperm.

It's important to note that fertility is not instantly restored after surgery. It can take several months, and in some cases over a year before the reversal can be counted a success. About 40 to 75 percent of all men can expect to father a child again. The success rate is significantly higher in couples that have had children together already.

This is one of the most common vasectomy reversal questions that both men and women have before going forward with surgery.

An effective vasectomy reversal simply allows sperm to rejoin the seminal stream during ejaculation. It should not affect sexual drive or the ability to have an erection and orgasm. In other words, it should not affect you and your partner’s ability to have and enjoy sex.

Sperm is only a small fraction of the total liquid in your semen. The characteristics of the fluid, the amount, color and texture, do not appear to change once your seminal fluid contains sperm again.

Postoperative wounds are generally nothing to worry about. The scrotum heals very well. Although the incision site may be larger than for a vasectomy, it is still small and hard to detect on an unshaven scrotum.

In the case of a large gap from a vasectomy, a reversal may result in the testicles sitting higher in the scrotum. This is hardly perceptible and rarely results in any long-term discomfort.

While microsurgical vasectomy reversal techniques are complex and delicate procedures they do not pose high risks for serious complications.

Postoperative pain following your surgery is comparable to what you experienced after your vasectomy. Your recovery period is longer, however, and you should promote your healing process by not over doing any physical activity and getting the proper rest.

With adequate rest, the generous use of an ice bag and over-the-counter pain relievers, as needed, you'll be on the right path to a complete and uncomplicated recovery. In some cases, Dr. Schrepferman will prescribe a course of antibiotics, which can help prevent post-operative infections.

Vasectomy reversal statistics indicate that the success of reversal surgery often depends on the type and amount of damage done to the vas deferens tubes at the time of your sterilization surgery. It is much easier to rejoin the vas tubes that were simply cut and returned to the scrotal sac. Cauterization following cutting of the vas tubes produces a highly effective sterilization. The cauterization poses a somewhat greater challenge to the chance of a successful reversal.

A vasectomy reversal is normally a same-day, outpatient procedure, conducted in our surgical suites at our offices. You will not spend any time in a hospital. After a few hours in our recovery room, you will be approved to travel home. If you are traveling to our practice from out of town, our travel service will make arrangements for you to stay at a local hotel equipped to meet your post-operative needs.

You should not attempt erection or ejaculation during your recovery period. At the most, you may have to wait about a month before you are comfortable and recovered enough to have sex.