Medical insurance may pay the costs of reversing a vasectomy in some situations. However, in the vast majority of situations, insurance does not cover the surgery. The initial consultation may be covered, but before scheduling an appointment with one of our doctors, we recommend calling your insurance company to see if your plan covers the treatment.
If your insurance doesn’t cover the surgery, you’ll have to pay for it yourself. We provide a great financing option to help you achieve your dream of having a kid.
How much does it costs to reverse a vasectomy?
The average vasectomy reversal cost at ICVR is $8700, with success rates as high as 99.5 percent. Other doctors’ vas reversals can cost a lot less, while others can cost a lot more. The trick is to inquire as to why and what they forego in order to be so much less expensive.
The goal of this website, published by Sheldon Marks, MD, is to describe how much a vasectomy reversal will cost in 2022 and what each patient will get for that money, which varies greatly from doctor to doctor. It’s crucial to remember that the end goal is a baby, not a vasectomy reversal. Cutting corners or performing rapid reversals may work for some, but there are likely to be other issues and risks, such as decreased success rates.
Cost, as taught to me by my father many years ago, is the amount of money spent on a product or service, whereas value is what each person gets for their money. Too often, people just consider their out-of-pocket expenses and do not consider what they receive or do not receive in return. They make the error of assuming that the cheapest doctor is also the best, and that all doctors provide the same outcomes, success, and care.
One of the most frequently asked inquiries is, “How much does a vasectomy reversal cost?” The cost of reversing a vasectomy can range from $800 to more than $70,000. Most major urologic doctors estimate that the treatment will cost between $8000 and $15,000, with a few as high as $70,000, all for the same procedure with similar outcomes. Several experts who care for vas reversal failures believe that many discount doctors have lower reversal success and higher rates of complications because of their quickie, high volume approach, no or minimal follow-up care, the use of older and simpler techniques (that allow the doctor to go fast), or not having critical support and OR staff, according to a recent fertility society meeting. Many doctors, we’ve heard, send out unexpected invoices weeks or months after the reverse vasectomy surgery.
For a routine, first-time vasectomy reversal for fertility, we offer a fixed, all-inclusive price package of $8700 with no hidden charges or unexpected fees. More difficult vasectomy reversals, redo vasectomy reversals, or vasectomy reversals for the treatment of post-vasectomy pain syndrome cost more (PVPS).
Because the doctors of ICVR are regarded as leading authorities by so many top tier doctors, and because we wrote the textbook (1) published articles, and taught the classes and courses to other doctors, every patient can expect the highest chances for vas reversal success, with vas-to-vas connections having a success rate of up to 99.5 percent (2). Many other doctors, sadly, believe they are doing a fine job with a vas reversal success rate of 70, 80, or 90 percent.
This cost remains the same for patients at ICVR, regardless of whether the vas reversal takes longer than the usual 2 to 3 hours or whether we need to conduct the more intricate and difficult vas-to-epididymal bypass (vasoepididymostomy, VE) on one or both sides.
Does Medicare cover vasectomy reversal?
A vasectomy is typically regarded as a cosmetic procedure. That is, it is a procedure that you choose to have rather than one that is required to treat a medical issue.
Medicare, on the other hand, only pays for procedures that are deemed medically necessary. Elective operations, such as vasectomies and vasectomy reversals, are never covered.
Unless the technique is being utilized to treat an underlying medical problem, this rule applies to all sterilization procedures. Endometriosis can be treated by hysterectomies, for example.
A vasectomy, on the other hand, is always done as a means of birth control and is not covered.
Other surgical operations may be covered under Part A and Part B, together known as original Medicare, but vasectomies are not.
Medicare Advantage
Only if you have a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan may you get a vasectomy covered by Medicare.
Medicare Advantage plans must cover everything that traditional Medicare does, and many also include extra coverage for things that Medicare does not cover.
Vasectomies may be covered under your Medicare Advantage plan, depending on your plan.
Are vasectomies 100 reversible?
Vasectomies can almost always be reversed. However, this does not guarantee that you will be able to conceive a kid. Vasectomy reversal can be tried even if it has been several years since the original vasectomy, but the longer it has been, the less likely the reverse will be successful.
Can you get a vasectomy reversal after 15 years?
New York, New York (19 February 2004) A recent study by physician-scientists at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center debunks a prevalent myth about vasectomy, finding that vasectomy reversal is very effective even 15 years or more after the vas deferens, the tube that delivers sperm, is closed. The study, which was published in the Journal of Urology in January, found the greatest pregnancy rates after vasectomy of any study to date.
The study found that whether a man had a vasectomy this year or 15 years ago, the pregnancy rate following a vasectomy reversal was the same, with an average of 84 percent risk of pregnancy over two years. (In comparison, healthy men who do not had a vasectomy can expect a pregnancy rate of 90%.) Pregnancy rates following vasectomy reversal were only 50-60% in previous research, a difference that can be linked to breakthroughs in vasectomy-reversal methods. The study also discovered that the pregnancy rate plummeted to 44% at intervals of more than 15 years.
“Vasectomy is a non-permanent procedure. A reversal will result in a substantially greater pregnancy rate than sperm aspiration and in vitro fertilization (IVF) with intracytoplasmic sperm injection for males who had a vasectomy less than 15 years ago (ICSI). Even at intervals of more than 15 years, reversal results will be on par with or better than IVF with ICSI “Dr. Marc Goldstein, the study’s lead author and Surgeon-in-Chief of Male Reproductive Medicine and Microsurgery at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center, states At the best centers, IVF with ICSI can result in pregnancy rates of up to 50% per attempt, albeit it may take two or three tries to get pregnant.
“Vasectomy reversal is also a more cost-effective alternative, particularly for couples who want more than one child,” Dr. Goldstein says. “IVF with ICSI is often two to three times more expensive than vasectomy reversal. In several states, including New York, a reversal is covered by health insurance, unlike IVF with ICSI.”
According to Dr. Goldstein, men desire to reverse a vasectomy for two reasons: remarriage or the loss of a child. In the United States, around half a million vasectomies are performed each year, with an estimated two percent to six percent of men seeking reversal.
Between 1984 and 2001, 213 vasectomy reversals were performed at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center, according to the report. The results were divided into four groups based on the length of the obstructive interval: less than 5 years, 5-10 years, 10-15 years, and greater than 15 years. The study only looked at men who had reproductive female partners.
The study also discovered that the vas deferens’ patency (or absence of obstruction) remained high for up to 15 years, averaging 90% and remaining constant regardless of when the vasectomy was performed. Other study results contradict this conclusion, which could be explained by the recent advent of superior surgical procedures for vasectomy reversal. Dr. Goldstein pioneered one such approach, the microdot method for precision suture application, in 1998.
Another myth about vasectomy is that the existence of granulomas, which are knots that form in the vas deferens when a vasectomy is done too tight, leads to increased patency and pregnancy rates. Granulomas, which occurred in 28% of vasectomies, did not increase patency to a statistically significant level and had no effect on pregnancy, according to the current study.
The study is the first to look at pregnancy and patency after two different types of vasectomy reversals: vasovasostomy (VV) and vasoepididymostomy (VE). Patients who had bilateral VV had a significantly higher patency rate (95%) than patients who had unilateral VV and VE (83%) and bilateral VE (83%) respectively (83 percent ). Pregnancy rates, on the other hand, were steady.
Vasovasostomy (VV) is a procedure in which the vas deferens is reconnected to the vas deferens. The vas deferens is connected to the epididymis, a duct that transports sperm to the vas deferens. Vasoepididymostomy (VE) connects the vas deferens to the epididymis, a duct that transports sperm to the vas deferens. If sperm is found in the vas fluid, VV is usually done. VE is used if there are no sperm in the vas fluid. Both procedures are performed in the outpatient setting and require less than three hours.
According to Dr. Goldstein, assisted reproductive methods such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or IVF with ICSI are the next step for men who are unable to conceive after VV or VE.
Dr. Stephen Boorjian, a urology resident at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell, and Michael Lipkin, a medical student, are co-authors of the study.
Dr. Goldstein and his colleagues at the Center for Male Reproductive Medicine and Microsurgery at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center have been recognized as leaders in the field of male reproductive surgery and have garnered awards for their educational DVDs. They won the “Audio-Visual Award” (first prize) from the American Urological Association in 2003 for “Ultra-Precise Multilayer Microsurgical Vasovasostomy: Trick of the Trade.” Their “Three Techniques of Microsurgical Intussusception Vasoepididymostomy: Cost-Effective Options for Obstructive Azoospermia: Cost-Effective Options for Obstructive Azoospermia” got the American Society for Reproductive Medicine’s “Best Video Award” in 2002.
How successful are vasectomy reversals?
A vasectomy is a procedure that males undergo to avoid becoming pregnant when having intercourse with female partners. The vas deferens, the two tubes that deliver sperm from the testicles to the penis, are cut and blocked by surgeons. The sperm in the semen that is ejaculated during sex is no longer present after the procedure. Learn more about the vasectomy procedure.
What is a vasectomy reversal?
A vasectomy reversal is a procedure that reattaches the vas deferens following a previous vasectomy. After a vasectomy, up to 6% of men (about 30,000 men each year) change their minds and wish to father children again.
Can it be “too late” to undergo a vasectomy reversal?
A prevalent myth is that reversing a vasectomy is impossible after a certain amount of time has passed. While the age of the vasectomy is a consideration, there is no time limit on when a vasectomy can be reversed. Even decades after a vasectomy, our patients have a high success rate. Our doctors have successfully reversed vasectomies that were performed more than 30 years ago.
What happens during the vasectomy reversal?
The purpose of a vasectomy reversal is to get around the impediment. The vasectomy causes obstruction in the vas deferens at first, but other blockage spots can develop afterward. We’ll do the following during the procedure:
- Determine the degree of obstruction. We extract fluid from the vas deferens and study it under a microscope to accomplish this.
- Determine the type of vasectomy procedure by examining the fluid’s color, consistency, and contents.
- Vasoepididymostomy (VE) is a procedure in which a bypass is created around the blockage in order to reconnect the vas to the unblocked epididymis.
- The operation is an outpatient procedure that takes three to four hours. You are not required to stay in the hospital overnight.
How effective is a vasectomy reversal?
A vasectomy reversal can be as effective as 90-95 percent of the time. Vasovasotomy procedures have a better success rate (90-95%) than vasoepididymostomy surgeries (65-70 percent). Microsurgery permits precise reapproximation of the severed ends of the genital tract, making vasectomy reversal more successful in any form of surgery. Microsurgery is a type of surgery that requires the use of an operating microscope. Our doctors have received fellowship training in microsurgery and are able to provide cutting-edge care with high success rates.
Vasectomy reversal: Recovery
Patients who are having a vasectomy reversed will receive particular recuperation instructions from their surgeon based on the operations performed and the circumstances of their situation. Patients are generally encouraged to take it easy for a few days. The pain is bearable and similar to that experienced with the vasectomy treatment. Ice packs should be used to the scrotum to minimize swelling and pain. Pain medication may be required for a few days following the procedure. If necessary, over-the-counter pain relievers such acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used to relieve pain. Patients typically return to sedentary, office employment in three days and physically demanding jobs in four weeks. For the next two weeks, avoid ejaculation and intense exertion.
A two-week follow-up visit will be scheduled to assess healing and recovery. The initial semen analysis will be checked at 6 weeks. Sperm can take anywhere from a month to a year to return to the ejaculate, depending on the type of repair and how long it has been since the vasectomy.
What is the success rate of a vasectomy reversal after 10 years?
If you have a desk job, you can return to work in a day or two. If you have a more demanding project, you may be able to complete it in three or four days. It’s also a fairly safe surgery, with bleeding and infection risks of less than 0.5 percent.
Your testicles never stopped making sperm
Many guys are surprised by this, according to Dr. Vij. Your testicles, on the other hand, continue to make sperm after a vasectomy. It simply can’t get out of the body anymore.
A reversal restores your natural fertility as a result of this. You’ll be asked to refrain from sexual activity for three weeks or so to let your body to heal, after which you can begin attempting to conceive. (It can take up to 12 months for fertility to return in some cases where the epididymis (the coiled tube along the testicle where the sperm matures) is blocked.
Time is a factor (but not the only one)
It’s a frequent myth that if a man had a vasectomy years ago, he won’t be able to reverse it. “That isn’t always the case, according to Dr. Vij. “The period since the vasectomy has a big impact on the success rate.” If the vasectomy was performed within the last ten years, the success rate can be as high as 95%. When a man has had his vasectomy for 15 years, they begin to deteriorate.
Even after a successful reversal, a number of factors will influence your chances of becoming pregnant. The age of the female partner, as well as the health of the man’s sperm, are essential considerations.
Is a vasectomy considered elective surgery?
Vasectomy is a surgical sterilization technique for men in which a part of both vas deferens is obliterated or removed, preventing sperm from traveling from the testes to the ejaculatory ducts. Although vasectomy is supposed to be a permanent sterilization, most men who want to reclaim their fertility due to a change in marital status or reproductive aspirations can reverse it.
How can I have a baby after a vasectomy?
Vasectomy is becoming one of the most popular sterilization procedures in the United States. If you change your mind about having children after your vasectomy, there are two treatments that can let you have a kid with your partner. A vasectomy reversal or sperm aspiration prior to in vitro conception are the two alternatives (IVF). Your doctor can advise you on which technique is best for you and your partner depending on the following factors:
What are the first steps I should take?
The first step is to consult a urologist. A urologist is a physician who focuses on the medical treatment of a man’s reproductive organs. Your urologist will review your medical history and do a physical check to ensure that you don’t have any other health problems that could influence your fertility. Your partner should also see a doctor to ensure she is not suffering from infertility.
What happens in a vasectomy reversal procedure?
Vasectomy reversal techniques are divided into two categories. The procedure employed is determined by whether part of the male reproductive system was blocked during your vasectomy.
- The two ends of the vas deferens are connected by a vasovasostomy (vas-o-vay-ZOS-tuh-me). The vas deferens is a tube that transfers sperm from the testes out of the body. On both the right and left sides of the scrotum, you have two vasa deferentia. During your vasectomy, each of your vasa deferentia was cut to prevent sperm from mingling with semen.
- The epididymis is connected to the vas deferens by a vasoepididymostomy (vas-o-ep-ih-did-ih-MOStuh-me). The epididymis is a coiled portion of the sperm ducts that matures sperm. When a vasovasostomy is not possible due to obstructions produced by the vasectomy, this operation is used.
During the operation, your doctor will choose which procedure is best for you. Both methods of vasectomy reversal offer the potential to allow you and your partner to have a child naturally through sexual activity.
How is sperm aspirated prior to an IVF cycle?
Your doctor aspirates (gently suctions) sperm from your testicles during this surgery. This technique is commonly done in the office under local anesthesia (with numbing medication). It’s also possible to do it under general anesthesia (when you are put to sleep). A tiny needle is used to extract sperm from each vas deferens near the testicle, or possibly from each testicle itself. After this treatment, most men experience some little discomfort.
The sperm is then used in a laboratory to fertilize your partner’s eggs through IVF. The sperm can be aspirated on the day of the IVF operation or retrieved ahead of time and preserved for a later IVF procedure. The use of sperm for artificial insemination is not suggested due to the tiny quantity of sperm.
When combined with IVF, this approach is quite effective, especially if your spouse is under 35 years old. This approach also has a number of other advantages. It’s possible that it’ll take your partner less time to become pregnant, and you won’t need to use birth control following a successful pregnancy. For the male partner, it is also a less invasive procedure. There are a few drawbacks as well. It is more costly. Your partner may have more than one child at the same time if more than one embryo is transferred. It’s also a more invasive process for the female spouse, and you might have to repeat it if you want more children.
How much does a vasectomy cost with insurance?
In the United States, they typically cost between $300 and $3,000, depending on criteria such as insurance coverage and the type of institution where they are performed. When compared to alternative techniques, the vasectomy is also more cost-effective, both in terms of money and overall health.
Is no scalpel vasectomy reversible?
Long-term birth control with a no-scalpel vasectomy can be effective and safe. The failure rate can be as low as 0.1 percent when performed by experienced surgeons.
Because a vasectomy is designed to be permanent, and reversal isn’t guaranteed, you and your spouse should carefully evaluate the ramifications of the procedure before proceeding.
A vasectomy normally has little effect on sexual function. Masturbation and intercourse should have the same sensations. However, when you ejaculate, you just release sperm. Your testicles will continue to generate sperm, but those cells will eventually die and be absorbed into your body, just like any other cells.
Consult your urologist if you have any questions or concerns regarding a no-scalpel vasectomy. The more information you have, the less difficult it will be to make such a crucial decision.