COST-OF-VASECTOMY.COM

Cost of Having a Vasectomy Reversal

1. A vasectomy reversal is a microsurgical procedure performed by a urologic surgeon to reverse sterility caused by a vasectomy. Approximately five to ten percent of the half million men who opt for vasectomy each year later elect to have the vasectomy reversed.
   
   Although a vasectomy should be regarded as permanent, it is sometimes possible to reverse a vesectomy procedure. Vasectomy reversal is an area of specialization where success is not assured. You will want to find a specialist doctor who is an expert in microsurgery from one of the many vasectomy reversal doctors available .

Unlike a vasectomy, a reversal is an expensive procedure that requires delicate microsurgery and is performed under a powerfu microscope . The surgeon must reconnect the cut ends of the vas deferens, the small tubes that carry sperm from the man's testicles. Factors that determine the cost of a vasectomy reversal include the complexity and time it takes to perform microsurgery, the use of general anesthesia with the services of an anesthesiologist, and the pre- and post-operative care and testing. Most reversals are done at an outpatient surgical center and the cost for this kind of care is less than with a hospital stay.

For these reasons, reversing a vasectomy is not inexpensive; the cost will vary between practices, states and the procedures used. Unlike a vasectomy, most insurance plans do not cover the cost of reversal surgery, which can range from about $5,000 to $13,000. (This is less costly than assisted reproductive techniques that rely on aspirated sperm and in-vitro fertilization.)

Although this is usually an elective, fee-for-service procedure, there are ways to make this expense more affordable.

• Insurance - It is unlikely that vasectomy reversal surgery will be covered by your health insurance, but you should always check with your insurance company, HMO or health plan.

Cash - Sometimes a full cash payment in advance earns a small discount on the total cost of your vasectomy reversal.

• Credit Cards - Most medical offices accept major credit cards. While payments over time are more convenient, you will incur a finance charge by the credit card company.

Medical financing services: Some physicians may work with lending agencies that specialize in financing for noninsured medical services.