At the Center for Male Reproductive Medicine in Los Angeles, we specialize in vasectomy reversal procedures, offering a high success rate of over 98%. Our director, Dr. Werthman, focuses on one patient per day, ensuring personalized care and attention.
What is a Vasectomy Reversal?
A vasectomy reversal restores male fertility by reconnecting the vas deferens, allowing sperm to flow freely again. Dr. Werthman performs this outpatient surgery using advanced microscopic visualization technology at the Specialty Surgical Center of Beverly Hills.
Can a Vasectomy Be Reversed Years Later? Advanced Microsurgery with Dr. Werthman
Vasectomy Reversal in Los Angeles: Advanced Microsurgery by Dr. Philip Werthman
Understanding Vasectomy Reversal Procedures
Dr. Werthman employs two advanced microsurgical procedures for vasectomy reversal: vasovasostomy and vasoepididymostomy. Understanding these procedures begins with basic male reproductive physiology and the process of a vasectomy.
Male Reproductive Physiology
Sperm are produced in the testicles and stored in the epididymis, a 14-foot-long tubule coiled into a four-inch space on top of the testes. They travel through the epididymis into the vas deferens, which have a muscular wall and a small inner channel about the size of a pen dot. The sperm journey through the vas deferens, eventually reaching the prostate, where they mix with seminal fluid to form semen, which is released during ejaculation.
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Vasectomy Reversal Procedures
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.
Discount on Active Military, Police and Fire for Vasectomy Reversal
Contact UsChoosing Your Surgeon
When selecting a surgeon for your vasectomy reversal, it's essential to make an informed decision. Many clinics may use attractive marketing or guarantees, but understanding what truly matters can help you choose the right specialist. Dr. Werthman exemplifies the qualities of an exceptional vasectomy reversal surgeon with his extensive training, vast experience, and unwavering commitment to patient care. By focusing on essential criteria such as training, experience, talent, and integrity, you can ensure the best possible outcome for your procedure.
Training: Ensure the surgeon has completed a one-year microsurgical fellowship in infertility.
Experience: Look for a surgeon who performs several microsurgical procedures weekly and has completed hundreds or thousands of vasectomy reversals.
Talent: Microsurgery requires innate skill and precision, much like art.
Integrity: Choose a surgeon who prioritizes patient care and maintains ethical standards.
Dr. Werthman’s proven track record and dedication to patient success make him a leading choice for vasectomy reversals, helping thousands of couples achieve their dream of renewed fertility.
Vasectomy Reversal FAQ
Can a vasectomy be reversed after 10, 15, 20 or more years?
Yes. I have successfully reversed vasectomies many years and even decades after the original procedure. The testicles generally continue producing sperm after vasectomy. With longer intervals, however, there is a greater chance of a secondary epididymal blockage requiring a vasoepididymostomy rather than a vasovasostomy.
How successful is vasectomy reversal?
Success depends largely on what I find at surgery. If sperm are present in the vasal fluid and I perform a vasovasostomy, my personal success rate for returning sperm to the ejaculate is greater than 98%, usually within 1-6 months. If the fluid is favorable but no sperm are seen, the success rate with vasovasostomy is approximately 80%. For men requiring a vasoepididymostomy, my success rate is approximately 60-70%, usually within 6 months to a year.
What is the difference between a vasovasostomy and a vasoepididymostomy, and how do you know which one I need?
A vasovasostomy reconnects the two ends of the vas deferens. A vasoepididymostomy bypasses an epididymal blockage by connecting the vas directly to a microscopic epididymal tubule. During surgery, I examine the fluid from the testicular end of the vas under the microscope. The quality of that fluid and whether sperm are present help determine which reconstruction gives the patient the best chance of success.
How long does Dr. Werthman take to perform a vasectomy reversal?
Most reversals take me approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours, compared with roughly 2 1/2 to 3 hours for many surgeons. After performing these procedures for approximately 35 years, there is very little wasted movement. I sometimes describe it as being choreographed like a ballet. We are not rushing - we simply work very efficiently, which also reduces anesthesia time.
What preparation is needed before surgery?
For an otherwise healthy man, preparation is usually minimal. Patients follow the anesthesiologist's fasting instructions and generally avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, Motrin and similar medications that increase bleeding risk for about 7-10 days, when medically appropriate. In my practice, patients taking GLP-1 medications are asked to discontinue them 2-3 weeks before surgery, in coordination with their prescribing physician and anesthesia team. Men with medical conditions or certain medications may also need blood tests, an EKG or medical clearance.
What does recovery look like after vasectomy reversal?
I generally recommend relaxing at home for about four days. Patients can walk around the house, and I recommend intermittent ice and good scrotal support. After four days, men can go for walks, drive and return to nonphysical work. Light activity is perfectly fine, but I recommend avoiding strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, gym workouts, running, bicycling and sexual activity for approximately 3 1/2 weeks.
How soon will sperm return after vasectomy reversal?
In men who have sperm in the vasal fluid and undergo a vasovasostomy, sperm can return as early as one month, and more than 98% in my experience will have sperm return within approximately 1-6 months. After a vasoepididymostomy, sperm can occasionally appear early, but it generally takes longer - most commonly 6 months to a year.
How large is the incision, and what type of anesthesia do you use?
In most patients, my incision is approximately 1/2 inch. It is so small that we generally do not even use a Band-Aid; we close and protect it with tissue glue. I perform reversals under general anesthesia, which keeps the patient comfortable and completely still - an important advantage when performing extremely precise microsurgery under high magnification.
If I am traveling from out of town, how long do I need to stay in Los Angeles?
Most out-of-town patients can see me the afternoon before surgery, have the procedure the next morning, stay in Los Angeles for one day afterward, and leave on the second day after surgery. Patients living within approximately five or six hours can usually be driven home after surgery. Anyone receiving general anesthesia must be picked up by a responsible adult.
Should we choose vasectomy reversal or sperm retrieval with IVF/ICSI?
That decision depends on the couple. A successful reversal can restore sperm to the ejaculate and potentially allow natural conception for one or more children. IVF with sperm retrieval may make more sense when there are significant female fertility issues or when reproductive time is limited. We can also retrieve and freeze sperm at the time of the vasectomy reversal, providing a backup source of sperm if the couple decides to pursue IVF/ICSI later or if the reversal does not produce the desired result.
How painful is a vasectomy reversal, and how does it compare with the original vasectomy?
I generally tell patients to expect that the vasectomy reversal may be more uncomfortable than their original vasectomy. I would rather prepare someone for a little more discomfort and have them tell me afterward that the experience was much easier than expected. In reality, some patients have essentially no pain at all and describe only slight discomfort, and many tell me the reversal was actually less painful than their vasectomy. I believe much of this is related to the very small incision, minimal dissection and no-touch microsurgical techniques I have developed and refined. It is uncommon for a patient to require pain medication for more than about five days.
Why Choose Dr. Werthman for Your Vasectomy Reversal?
Dr. Phillip Werthman stands out as a top-tier surgeon in this field, known for his unparalleled expertise in male infertility and vasectomy reversal. Unlike some practitioners who may have only attended a brief microsurgery course, Dr. Werthman has undergone extensive training and has dedicated his career to perfecting advanced microsurgical techniques. His rigorous approach includes a comprehensive understanding of male reproductive physiology and the latest technological advancements in surgery.
A pioneer in microsurgical vasectomy reversal, Dr. Werthman’s practice is built on a foundation of integrity, skill, and proven success. He has developed highly effective procedures such as the mini-incision microsurgical vasoepididymostomy, earning recognition as one of the American Urologic Association’s top ten innovators in urological surgery.
Dr. Werthman’s commitment to personalized care means that he performs only one vasectomy reversal procedure per day, ensuring that each patient receives the utmost attention and care. His approach has led to a vasectomy reversal success rate of over 98%, helping thousands of couples realize their dreams of renewed fertility.
For those considering vasectomy reversal, it’s essential to look beyond marketing claims and seek out a surgeon with the right credentials, experience, and dedication. Dr. Werthman’s extensive training, exceptional skill, and compassionate approach make him a leading choice for this delicate and life-changing procedure.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Contact us to schedule a private consultation with Dr. Werthman and explore your options for vasectomy reversal. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care and supporting you throughout your journey to renewed fertility.
Miracle Babies
When you visit our office, you’ll see that our walls are covered with the most beautiful artwork imaginable: baby pictures, announcements, and family holiday cards from thousands of former patients.
We can’t put all of them onto the website, but we wanted to share just a sampling of these precious young miracles.
K.M.
"Thank you for your service to my family. 2 years ago, you performed a reversal on me, 15 yrs after the original vasectomy. We waited 1 yr to start trying due to professional obligations. After 3 months of effort, (hardly the right word for it, ha ha), success was achieved and I sit here with a beautiful daughter in my arms. My wife and I thank you for helping us achieve this blessed occasion."
John and Rene T.
“Dear Dr. Werthman,
“We wanted to thank you for the wonderful gift that we are blessed with. You performed John’s vasectomy reversal last February, 19 years after his vasectomy, and we are pleased to announce the arrival of our little girl, Jodi Michelle T.
“Thanks again for all your help.”
Another Happy Family
Another happy family made possible by Dr. Werthman’s successful vasectomy reversal technique.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Schedule a private consultation with male fertility doctor Dr. Phillip Werthman to learn about your male reproduction options and get all of your questions answered.
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