Vasectomy Reversal

Vasectomy

During a vasectomy, the vas deferens are cut and sealed with titanium clips, ending the flow of sperm. Dr. Werthman has perfected a no-scalpel, no-needle vasectomy technique, where a tiny perforation is made, and the vas is isolated and blocked with clips. This procedure is minimally invasive and typically doesn’t require stitches.

Vasovasostomy

A vasovasostomy is a more straightforward procedure that reconnects the severed ends of the vas deferens, restoring the flow of sperm when they are present at the vasectomy site.

Vasoepididymostomy

A vasoepididymostomy is a more complex procedure performed when blockages in the epididymis prevent the flow of sperm. This technique bypasses the obstructions to restore sperm flow. These microsurgical procedures require high precision and expertise to ensure success.

Patient Information

Dr. Werthman performs vasectomy reversals at the Specialty Surgery Center of Beverly Hills, using state-of-the-art equipment. The outpatient procedure typically takes about two hours. Preoperative instructions include discontinuing aspirin and ibuprofen ten days before surgery.

Before Your Surgery

Arrive one hour before the surgery. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia for patient comfort and precision. Dr. Werthman personally performs all surgeries, ensuring the highest level of care.

About the Microscope

We utilize the Zeiss OPMI surgical microscope for precise vasectomy reversals. This advanced technology provides superior magnification and lighting, enhancing surgical outcomes.

Is it really possible to reverse a vasectomy?

Yes, it is possible to reverse a vasectomy. Vasectomy reversal is not only feasible but also has a high success rate when conducted by an experienced male infertility microsurgeon. Unfortunately, some doctors lacking these specialized skills may attempt to perform the procedure themselves instead of referring the patient to a male infertility specialist. For the best chance of success, it's advisable to consult a specialist.

As a patient, it’s important to ensure that your doctor regularly performs the procedure with successful outcomes. A good approach is to ask to speak with some of their previous patients who have undergone the procedure.

Research indicates that the success of the surgery heavily relies on the surgical technique and the surgeon's expertise, making it worthwhile to seek out a specialized center. Although failed vasectomy reversal surgeries can sometimes be repaired, the initial attempt at reversal is typically the easiest, most cost-effective, and offers the highest chance of success.

What is the success rate for vasectomy reversals?

The outcomes of vasectomy reversal are usually expressed in two percentages. The first is the patency rate, which refers to the percentage of men who have sperm restored in their ejaculate after the reversal. This indicates that the operation was technically successful and is commonly referred to as the vasectomy reversal success rate.

The second statistic is the pregnancy rate, which is always lower than the patency rate because numerous factors influence the ability to conceive beyond the return of sperm in the ejaculate.

According to the Vasovasostomy Study Group data, the patency rate for microsurgical vasovasostomy exceeds 90% if sperm was present in the vasal fluid during surgery, with pregnancy rates reaching up to 76%.

This study is often referenced by surgeons when discussing the results of vasectomy reversals.

Dr. Werthman’s personal results would show an over 98% success rate in patency (sperm restored to the ejaculate) if sperm were present in the vasal fluid at the time of surgery. This data is based on the last 1,000 vasectomy reversals performed by Dr. Werthman.

Don’t you need to check to see if I am still making sperm after my vasectomy?

Men continue to produce sperm regardless of how long it has been since their vasectomy unless other factors are involved. These factors may include injury to the testicles, exposure to chemicals or toxins, or certain serious medical conditions. In the absence of these situations, there is no need for an investigation into sperm production before a reversal.

Some older physicians still perform testicular biopsies prior to a vasectomy reversal, but this practice is no longer recommended or necessary.

It has been a long time since my vasectomy; can I still get it reversed?

While it is true that the closer you are to the time of your vasectomy, the easier it may be to reverse it, a skilled microsurgical specialist experienced in vasectomy reversals can achieve successful outcomes even for men who have waited 15 years or more since their vasectomy.

A recent study published in Fertility and Sterility in March 2002 examined success rates for vasectomy reversals performed 15 years or more after the procedure. The pregnancy rates for intervals of 15-19 years, 20-25 years, and greater than 25 years were found to be 49%, 39%, and 25%, respectively.

The Los Angeles Times Health Section recently published an article discussing the increased success of vasectomy reversals for procedures performed over 15 years ago.

Dr. Werthman has successfully helped a man father a child 57 years after his vasectomy, marking the oldest recorded case.

My urologist did a vasectomy reversal, but it hasn't worked. Can it be redone successfully?

A failed vasectomy reversal does not mean that all hope is lost. Repeating the surgery carefully and properly can lead to success in more than 80% of cases.

At the Center for Male Reproductive Medicine, we specialize in re-do vasectomy reversals. Approximately 10% of the reversals we perform are re-operations for patients who had unsuccessful surgeries elsewhere. Dr. Werthman typically performs two to four vasectomy reversals each week.

More than half of our patients travel from outside the Los Angeles area for treatment, so we are well equipped to provide all the necessary information and assistance with accommodations.

Patients usually stay in Los Angeles for 2-3 days. Dr. Werthman will conduct the initial evaluation the day before the procedure, and you will be ready to return home the day after the procedure.