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Does a reverse vasectomy work

A vasectomy, also known as male sterilization, is a surgical procedure that prevents sperm produced and stored in the male sex glands from getting into contact with the semen produced during orgasm. This is made possible by blocking or cutting the vas deferens (tubes carrying sperm from the testes to the penis). Meanwhile, reverse vasectomy is the process of rejoining the tubes that carry sperm that were initially blocked or cut during a vasectomy. But the main question is, does a reverse vasectomy work. Read on to find out.

Why should you go for a reverse vasectomy?

Although vasectomy reversal is often considered a risky surgical procedure, there are some reasons that may necessitate you to go for a reverse vasectomy, including:

•         Experiencing pain in the testicles related to a vasectomy
•         Wanting to have children again after losing a partner or child
•         Having more financial stability to begin or support a larger family
•         Wanting to have children with a new spouse after a breakup or divorce
•         Change of mind about having children in the future

Who qualifies for a vasectomy reversal?

Vasectomies are usually reversible up to 20 years after the initial vasectomy procedure. However, the longer you wait to have a reverse vasectomy, the less likely you will be able to have a child even after the reversal procedure.

Additionally, if your spouse happened to have a tubal ligation, undergoing a vasectomy reversal will not help increase your chances of making your partner pregnant. Instead, you should consult with your doctor about considering other options like sperm aspiration and Vitro fertilization.

How is the reverse vasectomy procedure done?

A vasectomy reversal is normally an outpatient procedure that takes 30 to 60 minutes. The procedure involves using local anesthesia that numbs the region around your scrotum (the sac that holds your testicles). General anesthesia can also be used to keep the patient unconscious throughout the procedure.

Moreover, your surgeon may decide to use either of the following vasectomy reversal procedures:

•         Vasoepididymostomy: Here, the surgeon stitches the vas deferens to the epididymis. This procedure is usually done if scar tissue blocks the sperm from moving into the vas deferens.
•         Vasovasostomy: Here, the surgeon stitches the vas deferens that were cut apart during the initial procedure.

There are some cases where your surgeon may decide to perform both of these procedures if the area around the scrotum requires several techniques to stitch the vas deferens back together again. Below are some of the vital steps that will be followed during both procedures:

1.     An incision is made on the bottom of your scrotum to reach the vas deferens
2.     The surgeon opens your vas deferens and checks for fluid inside the tube. If there are sperms in the fluid, a Vasovasostomy and if the fluid present is abnormally thick, a Vasoepididymostomy is performed.
3.     Lastly, the incisions are stitched and bandages placed on the scrotum to stop further bleeding.

Final Thoughts

At Lazare Urology, we are fully committed to helping people with urinary and sexual system complications. With our conservative yet innovative treatment solutions, we guarantee to get rid of your problem within no time and provide satisfactory results. For a free consultation with Dr. Lazare, feel free to book an appointment online or call us at (718) 568-7143.