Are Vasectomies Reversible?

Many men consider vasectomies a permanent form of birth control — until life throws a curve. New relationships and changing your mind about having or expanding a family can happen unexpectedly. You don’t want to nix your chances of procreating by making a rash decision.

As you wrestle with whether the procedure is right for you, you might wonder if a vasectomy is reversible. The answer is yes — but it depends on several factors.

Our experienced specialists here at Golden Gate Urology in Berkeley, California, explain the ins and outs of vasectomies and what it takes to reverse them.

What’s a vasectomy?

A vasectomy is a surgical procedure that provides permanent contraception. 

During a vasectomy, we cut and seal your vas deferens, the tubes that carry sperm from your testicles to the urethra. That prevents sperm from mixing with the ejaculate fluid, rendering you sterile — unable to impregnate a woman.

The procedure is quick and minimally invasive, and we usually perform it under local anesthesia. Most men can return to their regular activities within a few days. 

However, permanent doesn’t necessarily mean irreversible. 

What you need to know about reversing your vasectomy 

When we reverse a vasectomy, we reconnect the vas deferens cut during the vasectomy to restore your sperm flow and make natural conception possible again.

There are two main types of vasectomy reversal procedures:

1. A vasovasostomy stitches the severed ends of the vas deferens together
2. A vasoepididymostomy connects the vas deferens directly to the epididymis

A vasovasostomy is pretty straightforward. A vasoepididymostomy may be necessary when you have a damaged vas deferens or a blocked epididymis, a small, tubelike organ at the back of your testicles where sperm matures. 

The procedures have different challenges and success rates.

How successful are vasectomy reversals?

The success of your vasectomy reversal depends on several factors, including the type of reversal procedure you have and how recently you had your original vasectomy.

How long ago did you get your vasectomy?

Generally, the shorter the period, the higher the chances of success. Studies show that:

• Vasectomies reversed within three years have a success rate of about 97%
• Within 10 years, about 95% of vasectomy reversals succeed
• Those reversed after 15 years have a 71% success rate

What type of procedure did you get?

Vasovasostomies (90%-95%) have higher success rates than vasoepididymostomies (65%-70%). 

Is your surgeon experienced?

The skill and experience of the surgeon performing the reversal can significantly impact the outcome. At Golden Gate Urology, our highly trained and experienced surgeons specialize in microsurgical techniques that achieve excellent results.

What to expect during a vasectomy reversal

You’ve already had a vasectomy, so undergoing a reversal should feel familiar. Here’s a rundown of the procedure:

1. The pre-op consultation

Our team meets with you to discuss your medical history, the details of your original vasectomy, and your expectations for the reversal.

2. The surgery

The surgery typically takes 2-4 hours under general or spinal anesthesia. Your Golden Gate Urology surgeon makes small incisions in your scrotum to access the vas deferens.

Using an operating microscope, we meticulously reconnect the vas deferens and perform a vasoepididymostomy if we detect a blockage.

3. The recovery

We monitor you in a recovery room before discharging you. Most men can return to light activities within a week and full activities within a month.

Once you get home, take it easy and let your body heal.

• Rest for the first 48 hours and avoid strenuous activities 
• Apply ice packs to reduce swelling and discomfort
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen to help manage pain

To learn more about reversing your vasectomy, call Golden Gate Urology or book an appointment online today.