A vasectomy reversal is, first and foremost, a surgical operation. As such, it carries with it inherent risks and the possibility of side effects. Since it's a common procedure and is generally safe, the complication rate is low. However, risks and side effects still exist, and you should be able to recognize them so that you will know when to go back to your doctor and when to manage it at home.
Pain and swelling is common
Bleeding, bruising, pain, and swelling are natural side effects of a vasectomy reversal since the tissues of the penis are manipulated and cut. Infection, while common, is usually prevented or managed by the prescription of antibiotics, antimicrobials, or creams. Bleeding in the scrotum can occur. If this results in hematoma or blood clot, you may have to go back to the hospital for surgical drainage.
A painful risk specifically associated with this procedure is "sperm granuloma," a small lump caused by a leaking sperm that develops near the surgical site. There is usually no prescribed treatment for this except for pain relievers to manage the pain.
Expect allergic reactions
Another risk you may have to deal with in a vasectomy reversal procedure is allergic reactions to the anesthesia. You will have to inform your doctor beforehand if you've had an experience with anesthesia-induced allergy in any of your previous operations. Your anesthesiologist will treat you accordingly for this.
Long-term testicular pain is a rare risk and side effect of a vasectomy reversal. And, this isn't really serious since it can be treated if it occurs. Another potentially rare complication of any reversal procedure is atrophy of the testes because of the interruption of blood flow there. Because of this blood flow interruption, another side effect may be a lowered sperm count.
When you go into this procedure not fully prepared psychologically, you could experience some post-operative emotional issues. This will have to be addressed properly through psychological therapy sessions in as much as this could affect your views of fatherhood when pregnancy happens later.
Out of all these, however, the most severe risk that you will have to be ready for when you undergo a vasectomy reversal is failed operation - meaning that it won't be able to restore your fertility. For instance, as much as 80% of men develop anti-sperm antibodies that impair sperm fertility or make it hard for the sperm to unite with the egg. In other cases, scar tissue at the site of the reconnection causes blockage that impedes sperm flow. In less severe cases, an anti-inflammatory medication could do the trick. In other cases, a repeat vasectomy reversal may have to be performed. You should talk with your doctor prior to the operation about banking your sperm before the procedure in the event that a failure occurs.
While a successful pregnancy after the procedure also depends on your partner's ability to conceive and a host of other factors, the complications involving the surgery itself are usually rare when done by a qualified surgeon who has received formal training in urologic microsurgery and vasectomy reversal. Thus, choosing a good surgeon is part of your responsibility as a patient. It's best to get a recommendation from your family doctor or you could also get one from a major hospital in your area.
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