Vasectomy Reversal
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Male Fertility Doc
Eric K. Seaman, MD
Urologist located in Millburn, NJ & Denville, NJ
If you’ve had a vasectomy but decided you may still want to conceive children, you’re not alone as vasectomy reversal is fairly common and can be extremely effective. However, it’s a more complex surgery than a simple vasectomy, so finding a specialist to perform the procedure is even more important. Eric K. Seaman, M.D., has a wealth of experience performing this procedure and is currently taking new patients at his practice Male Fertility Doc in Denville and Millburn, New Jersey. Call the office or use online booking to schedule a consultation today.
Vasectomy Reversal Q & A
What is a vasectomy reversal?
While a vasectomy is considered a permanent birth control solution, in many cases the procedure can be reversed. During a vasectomy, the vas deferens — two tubes that connect your testicles to your prostate — are severed and sealed off, stopping the supply of sperm to your semen.
In a vasectomy reversal, Dr. Seaman simply reconnects the vas deferens, allowing sperm to flow through the reproductive system again. Dr. Seaman performs no-scalpel, no-needle vasectomy reversals, and is experienced using microsurgical treatment options as well.
How effective is a vasectomy reversal?
Almost all vasectomies can be reversed, but this doesn’t guarantee you’ll be able to have children. Your ability to conceive children is affected by the length of time since your vasectomy, your age as well as your partner’s age, and the skill of the surgeon who performed your vasectomy.
Depending on these factors, a vasectomy reversal is usually between 50-90% effective. Dr. Seaman should be able to give you more information on your chances of success after your consultation.
Furthermore, if Dr. Seaman finds any sperm during the surgery, you can also ask that it be frozen just in case, giving you the option of in vitro fertilization if necessary. This process is called testicular sperm extraction.
How do I prepare for a vasectomy reversal?
Preparation for a vasectomy reversal is very similar to preparing for a vasectomy. You’ll want to bring some tight-fitting athletic support shorts or underwear to help keep your bandages in place afterward, but otherwise, it’s a simple outpatient procedure.
First, you’ll receive a local anesthetic for your comfort. Then, Dr. Seaman determines which type of vasectomy reversal is right for you. The two main types are:
Vasovasostomy
With a vasovasostomy, Dr. Seaman reconnects the two severed ends of the vas deferens directly to each other. This is commonly the first choice, as it’s the simplest type of vasectomy to perform.
Vasoepididymostomy
A vasoepididymostomy is where the vas deferens are connected directly to the epididymis, a small sac on the testicles that holds sperm. This type of vasectomy is usually performed when a vasovasostomy isn’t an option.
Sometimes a combination of both techniques is used, one for each side. You’ll likely not know which one you need until Dr. Seaman begins the procedure, as he bases his decision on the amount of fluid present in the vas deferens when he makes his incision.
What should I expect after my vasectomy reversal?
After a vasectomy reversal, you’ll need a few days to rest and ice your incision. Avoid physical activity for a few days as you heal, and avoid sexual activity for at least a couple weeks. After about six to eight weeks, you may want to visit the office again to have your semen tested to confirm the surgery was a success.
If you’re interested in reversing your vasectomy, call the office of Eric K. Seaman, M.D., or make an appointment online today.
