Phone: (713) 798-4001 | Houston, TX

Nov 27, 2014 — by Larry Lipshultz

A man and a woman at the beachDr. Larry Lipshultz has helped patients from all over the state of Texas at his Houson men's health clinic. The reason that patients from San Antonio and other major cities visit Dr. Lipshultz is his reputation for effective care. This is an important concern for many patients who are considering vasectomy reversal, a surgical procedure that restores a man's ability to conceive.

A number of patients who seek a vasectomy reversal are middle-aged or older. Given this, we'd like to focus on some concerns and challenges that face men in their 40s who are considering vasectomy reversal surgery.

How Vasectomy Reversal Works

Vasectomy reversal is a procedure that restores a man's ability to father a child through intercourse. It is performed after an initial vasectomy, a procedure that prevents sperm from being present in the semen when a man ejaculates.

The Effectiveness of Vasectomy Reversal in Your 40s

As with vasectomy reversal in younger men, the effectiveness of the surgery usually hinges on how soon after the initial vasectomy the reversal surgery is performed. If the initial vasectomy was performed three years prior, the effectiveness of the vasectomy reversal is higher. If the vasectomy was performed more than 10 years ago, the chances of success are much lower.

Dr. Lipshultz will note your medical history to determine the potential success rate of vasectomy reversal surgery.

Considering Other Factors That May Make Conception More Difficult

In addition to the time that the vasectomy was performed, other issues that affect male fertility need to be taken into account.

Around a man's 40s, his testosterone levels will decrease. This can affect sperm count. Some studies have also shows issues with sperm quality, such as DNA fragmentation and other matters that could increase the chances of birth defects. Erectile dysfunction is also a greater possibility as men get older.

It takes two to make a baby, of course, so these issues that affect male fertility need to also be considered alongside female fertility matters. While the vasectomy reversal surgery may be successful, there could be other obstacles that prevent a couple from starting a family.

Alternatives to Vasectomy Reversal for Men in Their 40s

If the potential success of vasectomy reversal seems low or if there are other factors to consider that affect a couple's fertility, it's important to keep various alternatives in mind.

Rather than a vasectomy reversal, some couples have opted instead for assisted reproduction treatments, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), sperm retrieval, sperm donors, egg donors, and so forth. These techniques can prove effective when other options do not seem as promising.

Adoption is also worth considering as there are many children in need of loving homes and loving parents. Many agencies can help couples connect with a child who needs a family.

Working Closely with You to Make the Best Decision

Having children and starting a family are not decisions to take lightly, which is why we'll discuss all options with you in full detail. We want to make sure that you and your partner make the best possible choices that will make you happy and satisfied.

Schedule a Consultation at Our Men's Health Center

To learn more about vasectomy reversal and your many other options out there for starting a family of your own, be sure to contact our men's health medical center today. Dr. Lipshultz and his entire team will answer all of your questions about treatment options in full detail, helping you make the wisest decision given your situation.