It’s no surprise that several people change their minds about getting a vasectomy. After a change of heart, patients who have had a vasectomy may wish to know whether it can be reversed or not. The good news is, it is possible to reverse a vasectomy. However, the procedure is a little more complicated than a vasectomy and not everyone qualifies for it.
What Is a Vasectomy Reversal?
During a vasectomy, your doctor blocks or cuts the vas deferens, which are tubes that are primarily responsible for carrying sperm from the testes to the semen, so they can combine. By cutting the connection of the vas deferens to the rest of the system, sperm can no longer leave the body.
On the other hand, a vasectomy reversal allows your doctor to join these tubes back together. This procedure restores the connection, which allows for sperm and semen to come together prior to leaving the body.
Risks of Vasectomy Reversal
Although vasectomy reversal is a safe procedure, there are still some risks you should be aware of and discuss with your doctor prior to getting it done.
Infection
Having an infection is always possible with a surgical procedure. If ever an infection occurs after a vasectomy reversal procedure, your doctor may give you oral antibiotics for treatment. However, should an abscess form, drainage may be necessary. Many doctors take steps to lower the risk of infection before it occurs.
Bleeding
This kind of procedure may require more surgical manipulation of the vas deferens as compared to a vasectomy. Therefore, there is a more significant risk of experiencing bleeding. You will work with your doctor to ensure you have minimal bleeding during and after the procedure as you heal. Make sure to follow your doctor’s orders on taking blood thinners and resting until the surgery wound heals properly.
Testicular Atrophy
Testicular atrophy is caused by repeated pressure to the testicle’s blood supply. It may occur in patients who have previously undergone scrotal surgeries. The risk may also increase for those with circulatory system disorders.
How Effective Is Vasectomy Reversal?
Sperm will appear again in your semen within a few weeks or months after the procedure. There are instances, however, where patients must wait about a year before production of sperm begins again. Your doctor will examine your semen to check for the presence of sperm to determine if the reversal was a success.
Vasectomy Reversal in Phoenix, Arizona
At Ironwood Urology, we specialize in both vasectomy and vasectomy reversals. With the help of one of Phoenix’s leading men’s health specialists, Dr. Desi Avila, you will be able to receive the best treatment possible. Dr. Avila has advanced training in men’s health issues, microsurgical vasectomy reversal, and urological robotic surgery. He will make sure to help you improve your overall well-being, leading to a happy life full of confidence and vigor.
To schedule a consultation with us, you may contact us at (480) 961-2323. You can also submit an appointment request online.
