What to Consider Before Deciding to undergo a Vasectomy Reversal Surgery
What Is a Vasectomy?
A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that disrupts the flow of sperm through the vas deferens.
What Is a Vasectomy Reversal?
A vasectomy reversal is a surgical procedure that restores the flow of sperm through the vas deferens.
How Common is Vasectomy Reversal?
Approximately 5% of men with a vasectomy will choose to have a vasectomy reversal. These include men who remarry and desire to have more children. Others seek vasectomy reversal after the death of a child. A small percentage of men seek reversal for relief of scrotal pain attributed to the vasectomy.
It is advised to have a vasectomy reversal as soon as the decision is made to have more children. The length of time from vasectomy to reversal surgery correlates with success so it is best to perform the surgery as early as possible. Another consideration is the possible extended length of time before viable sperm return to the ejaculate following reversal surgery.
What Is the Success Rate of Vasectomy Reversal?
Results of recent studies indicate that following microsurgical vasovasostomy sperm appears in the semen in approximately 85 to 97% of men. Approximately 50 percent of couples subsequently achieve a pregnancy. Following microsurgical vasoepididymostomy, sperm appears in the semen in approximately 65% of men. Approximately 20 percent of couples subsequently achieve a pregnancy. The presence of testicular failure or atrophy negatively impacts the success rate of vasectomy reversal.
About the Vasectomy Reversal Procedure
A vasectomy reversal procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and takes about three to five hours. Pain medication is prescribed for the first two post-operative days after which over-the-counter analgesics (Tylenol, Motrin, Advil) are enough to minimize discomfort. Most patients return to work within three days unless their occupation involves strenuous physical activity or extended periods of driving.
Vasectomy Reversal Costs
Vasectomy reversal costs can vary depending on the quality of the original vasectomy and which procedure is required. Most vasectomy reversals are not covered by health insurance, but they are the most effective and least expensive option for achieving pregnancy after a vasectomy. Dr. Larish offers very competitive rates and has assembled a fixed-cost vasectomy reversal fee providing his patients with a clear understanding of their costs up front and eliminating any surprise or hidden fees. Currently, Dr. Larish is offering a reduced fee for 2013 to help couples achieve their dreams of having a child. There are also helpful resources for insurance and financing.
Vasectomy Reversal Risks
Every surgery entails some risk. However, severe complications are extremely rare. Most patients only experience minor pain, swelling and bruising. Infection and bleeding are uncommon. A delayed complication of vasectomy reversal consists of scarring at the site of reconnection of the vas deferens and occurs in 2% of all patients per year until five years post-operatively.
Contact us for more information about Vasectomy Reversal
If you are interested in learning more about vasectomy reversal or would like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Larish, New Yorks top expert on vasectomy reversal, Call us today!
