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5 Things to Know Before Getting a Vasectomy Reversal

October 28, 2025

For many men, a vasectomy is a permanent decision. But sometimes, life changes – and so do family plans.

The good news? A vasectomy reversal can often restore fertility for men who change their mind.

But before you schedule surgery, here’s what to expect – and how to set yourself up for success.

1. Vasectomy reversals require surgery

Unlike a vasectomy, which is done quickly in a doctor’s office, reversals often require an operating room for the best results.

“A reversal will take about three hours and success rates are generally high,” says Jared Bieniek, MD, medical director and fellowship-trained microsurgeon at Tallwood Men’s Health.

Because it’s a more involved procedure, it’s important to choose the right surgeon.

“Reversals require expertise so patients should seek out a provider with specific training and experience performing reversals for their best outcome.”

From comfort to success, finding the right surgeon can make all the difference.

> Related: What Happens When You Get a Vasectomy? What to Expect Before, During and After

2. Your doctor will choose the best approach during surgery

When you have a vasectomy, the vas deferens – the tube that carries sperm – is cut and sealed. A reversal seeks to reconnect that pathway, but it isn’t always easy.

If things look clear, your surgeon can reconnect the vas deferens with tiny sutures. But if there’s a blockage that needs to be bypassed, the vas deferens may be connected directly to the epididymis in the testicles.

Your doctor will decide which type of reconstruction is best during surgery.

3. Vasectomy reversal isn’t always covered by insurance

Vasectomies are often covered by insurance – but the same isn’t always true for reversals.

Before scheduling your procedure, check with your insurance plan to understand your coverage.

Be sure to look out for any out of pocket costs, so there are no surprises later.

4. Sooner is better when it comes to outcomes

There’s no time limit on a vasectomy reversal, but sooner is generally better.

“After more than about 10 years, other changes may have occurred. We won’t know that until we are in the operating room. The vas deferens may still be open and can be reconnected, or a more complex reconstruction might be needed,” says Dr. Bieniek.

But that doesn’t mean you’re always out of luck if you wait too long.

“Certainly there is no line in the sand, and some men can restore fertility even decades after their vasectomy,” he adds.

If it’s been a few years since your vasectomy, your surgeon will review the likelihood of success with you.

5. There are other fertility options out there

Not a good candidate for a vasectomy reversal? Other treatments like a sperm retrieval can still help you build a family.

Before a reversal, your doctor will gather information about the your fertility, like if you’ve fathered children before.

“We also consider your current partner – is it the same partner you have successfully conceived with before or a different partner?” Dr. Bieniek notes.

If it’s a new partner, fertility testing can help determine whether reversal or sperm retrieval is the better fit.

“Reversals are an excellent option for men looking to restore fertility after a vasectomy. They have high success rates but may not be the right choice for everyone,” Dr. Bieniek says.