Is a vasectomy reversible?

A vasectomy is reversible through a minor outpatient procedure called a vasovasostomy, according to the Urology Care Foundation. However, a vasectomy is generally viewed as permanent birth control because of complications and the uncertainty of fertility after the surgery, reports WebMD.

During vasectomy reversal surgery, the physician reconnects the ends of the vas deferens, which is the sperm-carrying tube cut during the vasectomy. The reversal surgery normally lasts from two to four hours and minor pain is common for a few weeks, reports WebMD. The longer the time between the vasectomy and the reversal, the lower the odds of fertility. Some men experience other blockages or develop sperm antibodies.