Vasectomy Reversal

Sometimes circumstances shift or you simply change your mind, and that’s okay. Men who have previously undergone a vasectomy but who now wish to add to their families may consider having a vasectomy reversal.

What is a vasectomy?

A vasectomy is a surgical procedure designed as a permanent form of contraception, also known as sterilisation. This operation involves severing the vas deferens, the two tubes which carry sperm from the testes to the penis to be released during ejaculation. By cutting and sealing each vas deferens, sperm may continue to be produced but can no longer exit the body via ejaculate.

How does a vasectomy reversal work?

A vasectomy reversal involves surgically reconnecting the vas deferens to recreate the channel for sperm to reach the penis. This enables sperm to be released during intercourse, restoring the potential for conception.

Vasectomy reversals are performed under general anaesthesia and may take between 2-4 hours. Two small incisions are made through the scrotal skin as access points for Ying to examine each testicle, remove scar tissue, and stitch together the ends of each vas deferens using an operating microscope.

A vasectomy reversal is considered a low-risk operation, but does come with a possibility of complications. These include bleeding, infection of the incision site, allergic reaction to the anaesthesia, or long-term testicle pain.

What is the success rate for a vasectomy reversal?

Vasectomy reversals are not guaranteed to restore fertility or enable natural conception. Conception is a complex biological and physiological process affected by various factors, including factors relating to your reproductive partner providing the egg and/or carrying the pregnancy.

Successfully restoring sperm to ejaculate through vasectomy reversal is typically achieved in 60-90% of men by 3 months post-op. However, this will be affected by the condition of the vas deferens after having had the original vasectomy procedure, and how long ago the vasectomy was performed. The return of sperm to ejaculate through a successful vasectomy reversal does not guarantee the ability to conceive. Ying will provide a more accurate, personalised prediction of your likelihood of success during your consultation.

Common questions about vasectomy reversal

Does vasectomy reversal hurt?

There is some pain associated with the vasectomy reversal procedure, though during the operation itself you will be asleep under general anaesthesia. The majority of men report post-op pain after a reversal to be similar to or less than the pain after the original vasectomy. In most cases, any post-op pain can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.

Is vasectomy reversal safe?

The vasectomy reversal procedure carries a low risk of complications, including infection at the incision site, bleeding in the scrotum, or persistent pain. Uncommonly, patients may experience a reaction to the anaesthesia, the materials or equipment used for the procedure, or the post-op medications.

What is the recovery process after a vasectomy reversal?

Ying’s patients typically will be well enough to return home on the same day as the vasectomy reversal operation. He will provide comprehensive post-op instructions for you, which include avoiding strenuous activities for at least 2 weeks. Most men return to work after about a week, depending on their work activities and level of post-op discomfort.

How soon can we start trying to conceive after a vasectomy reversal?

You should abstain from sexual intercourse for about 2 weeks after a vasectomy reversal. After this, you may start having intercourse again while bearing in mind that it takes at least 3 months for sperm to be present again in the ejaculate.

What is the average vasectomy reversal cost in Sydney?

The final out-of-pocket cost for a vasectomy reversal in Sydney will depend on your surgeon, Medicare eligibility, and the coverage provided by your private health insurance. In Sydney, a vasectomy reversal can cost anywhere between $4000 to $8000.