Vasectomy Reversal FAQs

Vasectomy Reversal Frequently Asked Questions

Over the years that Dr. Mills has performed this procedure, a number of commonly asked questions have come up.

The following is a list of frequently asked questions about vasectomy reversal:

1. What is the vasectomy reversal success rate? - Success rates of a reverse vasectomy depend on a number of factors that Dr. Mills will review with you during your consultation but be reassured vasectomy reversal in Dr. Mills’ hands has a very high success rate and he will do everything possible to ensure a good outcome and counsel you on all of your reproductive options.  Because Dr. Mills is not only a highly experienced microsurgeon but also a highly skilled male reproductive endocrinologist, he can optimize his patients’ male reproductive hormones to optimize pregnancy chances even further.
2. How painful of a recovery is the vasectomy reversal procedure? - Most men wake from the procedure with no pain as Dr. Mills instills a highly concentrated local anesthetic that can last up to 6 hours after the surgery.  Dr. Mills typically sends his men home with a mild oral pain medication that most men use for 2-3 days after the procedure and then transition to over the counter medications.
3. When can I resume sexual intercourse after a reverse vasectomy? - Although Dr. Mills has seen pregnancies prior to two weeks post-procedure, he recommends waiting 2 weeks post-procedure to resuming intercourse.
4. How long does it take to get pregnant after the reverse vasectomy procedure? - Most couples will achieve pregnancy within 3-9 months of the surgery but some happen sooner and some happen over a year after the procedure.  Based on your post-operative semen analyses, Dr. Mills can better predict the chances of pregnancy.
5. Does insurance cover the cost of reversing a vasectomy? - No, but at UCLA we offer competitive pricing for a vasectomy reversal.
6. Can we have multiple children after a vasectomy reversal? - As long as the vasectomy reversal is successful and the man does not have late scarring, this is entirely possible.  Follow-up with Dr. Mills is important to monitor the sperm numbers.
7. Can I get a vasectomy after the reversal is successful? - As much as it pains Dr. Mills to undo his successful work, he is happy to perform vasectomy after vasectomy reversal.
8. Can Dr. Mills do a sperm extraction instead of a reversal and use that for intrauterine insemination (IUI) - Sperm extracted from the spermatic ducts can only be used for in vitro fertilization.  Occasionally, when sperm counts have returned after reversal and couples are not getting pregnant, IUI may be an option to improve pregnancy chances.
9. How long does a reverse vasectomy surgery take? - Dr. Mills usually schedules surgeries for 3 hours to be absolutely sure that he can provide the best surgery possible but most vasectomy reversals take approximately 2 to 2 ½ hours.
10. Can I drive myself to the surgery? - Because the procedure is performed under anesthesia, the man will need a driver to and from the surgery center.

UCLA Urology Appointment line at 310-794-7700.