Vasectomy Reversal

For many years a vasectomy was viewed as a permanent, non-reversible form of contraception. With advances in microsurgical techniques this procedure is now reversible. As a highly skilled microsurgeon, Dr Laniewski is able to provide this service for YOU.

Why have a vasectomy reversal?

The majority of men who seek vasectomy reversal have simply changed their mind and would like to have more children. This happens most often when men have entered a new relationship. Another reason that men seek vasectomy reversal is because of the development of post-vasectomy pain syndrome. This affects a small number of men who have undergone vasectomy and is characterised by a dull pain in the testicles, that becomes worse during intercourse and ejaculation. A reversal can certainly help to alleviate the discomfort experienced by some men after vasectomy.

The procedure – Vaso-Vasostomy

A vasectomy reversal can take between 2-4 hours to complete. It is designed to unblock any obstructions and microsurgical techniques are used to reconnect the tubes (vas deferens) that were cut during vasectomy.

The surgery is performed under general anaesthetic using a specialised plastic surgery microscope.  An incision is made on the scrotum to find the vas deferens. Once each end of the vas deferens is located, damaged and scarred tissue from the vasectomy procedure is removed. Fluid is squirted through the tubes to ensure there are no obstructions.

The vas deferens is then reconnected, and the surgery is complete. In some cases where the vas deferens is too damaged a different surgical technique is employed – a vaso -epididymostomy.

Vaso-epididymostomy

A vaso-epididymostomy uses the same technique except that there is no vas deferens to vas deferens connection; it is essentially a connection of the vas deferens directly to the epididymis.

Dissolving sutures are used to close the wound and small drains may be inserted to prevent fluid accumulation during the healing process.

After the surgery

Most patients return to work 7-10 days after surgery. Two weeks of rest from physical activity is required and sexual intercourse should be avoided for at least 4 weeks.