Vasectomy reversal is possible and, in fact, is the choice many couples make upon deciding to try for a child. Results, however, can vary. While success rates for return of sperm typically range from 75 percent to 86 percent, pregnancy rates are lower, ranging from 45 percent to 70 percent percent. However, the success rates and pregnancy rates are even higher when enlisting the services of a vasectomy reversal expert.
There are several factors that determine a man’s chances of successful reversal; by paying attention to these factors, you can reasonably predict the outcome.
- Length of time since the vasectomy: Typically, the sooner a reversal is initiated, the better. As time passes, the chances of restored fertility do not suddenly drop, as was previously thought. They do, however, follow a downward trend. That said, many men have had successful reversals despite a time lapse as long as 20 years after the initial surgery.
- Prior fertility: Having fathered a child before the vasectomy increases your chances of being able to father a new child after a reversal.
- Prior vasectomy reversal: If a prior reversal has failed, that does not mean that you cannot have a successful reversal. In fact, one study demonstrated that as many as 79 percent of men whose first reversal failed had successful outcomes after another reversal performed by a microsurgical vasectomy reversal specialist.
- Other surgeries: Some surgeries, such as pediatric hernia repair, may cause a secondary vasal obstruction. This can reduce the chances for success.
- Partner: Age of the partner has an impact, since women’s fertility declines with age especially after age 40. However excellent pregnancy rates are achieved when the female partner has normal fertility.
An experienced vasectomy reversal doctor can help you determine whether you are a viable candidate for reversal surgery. However, there are some factors that he will not be aware of until he begins the procedure, such as a secondary blockage in the epididymis. Another factor on which the success of the reversal depends is the quality of the surgeon. There are vast differences between the least qualified, typically General Urologists, all the way to the most qualified fertility fellowship-trained, micro-surgeons.
Dedicated to providing quality care and able to show proven results, Legacy Male Health Institute and Dr. Jeffrey Buch are recognized leaders in the field of vasectomy reversal amongst fertility fellowship trained micro-surgeons. Dr. Buch and his team combine state of the art technology and medical expertise, with truly client-focused care.
