Vasectomy Reversal in Salt Lake City, UT

Although a vasectomy should be considered an irreversible procedure, this is not technically true. Changing social circumstances may lead to a new desire for fertility. If a man has had a vasectomy in the past, the tubes may be reconnected by bypassing the scarred area that is associated with the previous vasectomy. This is known as a vasovasostomy or VV. Typically, the longer the time since the vasectomy, the longer this scarred area is.

This is done as an outpatient surgery, usually under general anesthesia. There are various methods for doing a vasectomy reversal, but we recommend a microscopic, 2-layer technique, as this has been shown to have the best outcome.

If the vas deferens is too scarred to allow connection of vas to vas, we may need to attach the vas to the epididymis (the structure where sperm mature, next to the testicle). This is known as a Vasoepididymostomy or VE, and generally has a lower chance of successful pregnancy than a VV. VE is done when VV is not possible.

Urologist William Brant, MD is a member of the Sexual Medicine Society and has extensive experience with microsurgery including vasectomy reversal. If you’ve had a vasectomy and are considering a reversal, Dr. Brant may be able to help. Contact our urology clinic today to at (801) 965-2767 schedule a consultation in Salt Lake City, UT.

How Much Does a Vasectomy Reversal Cost?

Typically, insurance does not cover vasectomy reversal; the cost depends on location but is typically around $9,000 – $10, 000 for everything, including surgery, anesthesia, etc.

We try to be very conscious of cost and try to provide an excellent value for our patients. These surgeries may cost over double our pricing at other locations and in other states.

What Are the Advantages of Vasectomy Reversal?

• Much less expensive than IVF or most reproductive technologies
• Multiple pregnancies are possible after vasectomy reversal, unlike other reproductive technologies (in which each “cycle” is designed to result in one pregnancy and birth).

What Are the Disadvantages of Vasectomy Reversal?

• Even if the vas is reconnected, there may be no sperm or sperm in low numbers. This can be because of scarring, chronic congestion, or the development of “anti-sperm antibodies.” If the vasectomy reversal “fails”, the patient will likely have to go on to IVF or an alternative reproductive technology.
• Having a vasectomy reversal obviously does not alter any potential problems with the female partner. For example, women over 35 usually have some loss of fertility compared to their younger years and so a vasectomy reversal, even if successful, may not lead to pregnancy. The success of a vasectomy reversal, in terms of pregnancy, often is determined by the fertility of the partner