Sometimes we change our minds. Whether it’s been a few years, or two decades since a vasectomy, a man can change his mind and want the procedure reversed. This decision can often be attributed to major life changes such as marriage or divorce, and many men are concerned that it may be too late for a reversal—that having children of their own is no longer an option.

Fortunately, experienced specialists such as Dr. Bastuba are able to reverse vasectomies successfully, even long after the procedure was originally performed. Dr. Bastuba has performed over 3,000 vasectomy reversals, with his typical patients being 10-25 years post-vasectomy.

A vasectomy reversal procedure (also called a vasovasostomy) reconnects the vas deferens that were disconnected during the original vasectomy. This reconnect allows sperm once again to enter the semen and ejaculate, restoring fertility. Typically, vasectomy reversals are successful—Dr. Bastuba has a 98% success rate. There are certain factors that can affect a successful outcome of the procedure, including how healthy a person is overall and the amount of time that has passed since the vasectomy.

Recovery from a vasectomy reversal is actually quite similar to recovery after a vasectomy—some pain and discomfort can be expected, with swelling and bruising that diminish after a few days. As with a vasectomy, you should be able to return to your normal daily activities after a few days and to intercourse after a few weeks. Your doctor will perform a semen analysis in order to determine if your sperm count is stable in the months following the reversal, and this will determine the success of the procedure, unless a pregnancy should occur first.

Just as deciding to get a vasectomy was a big decision, so is choosing to have the vasectomy reversed. A common alternative to vasectomy reversal surgery is use of Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), which involves collecting sperm directly from the testis or epididymis that is then injected into your female partner’s egg during in vitro fertilization (IVF). ICSI does not reverse the vasectomy procedure, but works around it. However, the cost of ICSI can be significant when compared to the cost of a vasectomy reversal. It is up to you to decide which option is best.

If you are interested in getting a vasectomy reversal but would like to learn more, we invite you to request a free vasectomy reversal consultation with Dr. Bastuba. This is a limited time offer.