Tubal Reversal Explained
Tubal ligation reversal is a microsurgical procedure where blocked or damaged sections of the fallopian tubes are removed, and the healthy ends are sutured back together.
No hormones. No embryo transfers. Just a one-time surgical solution to restore fertility.
Is Tubal Reversal Surgery For You?
Not everyone qualifies, but many women do. We’ll carefully evaluate:
- Type of tubal ligation: Clip, ring, or tie methods are more reversible than burned or removed tubes.
- Remaining tube length: Ideally more than 4 cm of healthy fallopian tube on each side.
- Age & egg reserve: Younger age helps, but even women in their 30s and 40s can be excellent candidates.
- Overall health: Prior C-sections, surgeries, BMI, or endometriosis can affect eligibility.
- Partner’s fertility: A semen analysis helps rule out male factor infertility before surgery.
If reversal isn’t the best fit, we won’t leave you hanging. We’ll map out a personalized path forward, whether that’s IVF or another fertility solution.
Tubal Reversal vs In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
Choosing between tubal reversal and IVF depends on your anatomy, timeline, and goals. Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help clarify your options:
Bottom line:
- If your tubes are intact and you’re medically eligible, reversal often offers better value, fewer interventions, and more natural outcomes.
- If your tubes are severely damaged or missing (or if there’s significant male factor infertility), IVF may be the better path.
We’ll help you make the right choice with expert, unbiased guidance.
Why Choose Us
2,500+
1,000+
Competitive
The Tubal Reversal Process at Our LA Clinic
Initial consultation
You’ll begin with a personal consultation (either in person at our Los Angeles fertility clinic, or via phone) with a board-certified fertility specialist. We’ll review:
- Your medical history and previous tubal ligation procedure
- Fertility timeline, family goals, and prior pregnancies
- Your partner’s fertility status via semen analysis, if needed
Sometimes we’ll order an HSG (hysterosalpingogram) to assess tubal condition if prior operative reports are missing.
Preoperative visit (1–14 Days Before Surgery)
Once you’re approved for surgery, we’ll schedule your preoperative visit (typically 1 to 14 days before your procedure).
During this appointment, you’ll receive:
- A full physical exam
- A pelvic ultrasound to assess your uterus and ovaries
- Preoperative blood work to ensure you’re healthy and ready for anesthesia
- Clear instructions for the day of surgery, including fasting after 10:00 PM the night before
Our team will answer all your questions and prepare you with everything you need for a confident surgery day.
Semen analysis (if needed)
If your partner has no prior pregnancies or fertility concerns, we may suggest a simple semen analysis before surgery. This test checks for healthy sperm count, movement, and shape to rule out male factor infertility and make sure reversal is the right path forward.
Preoperative blood work
All patients undergo standard lab testing to confirm you’re fit for general anesthesia and surgery. These labs also screen for underlying health conditions that could affect healing or fertility.
Everything is handled in-house for your convenience and peace of mind.
Surgery
Your tubal reversal procedure will be performed in our AAAASF-accredited outpatient surgical center, using high-precision microsurgical techniques.
We offer two surgical procedure options based on your anatomy and needs:
Mini-Laparotomy (Standard “Open” Method)
- Small incision (5–7 cm) just above the pubic bone
- Tubes are gently brought into view and reconnected under magnification
- Ideal for patients with a normal BMI and no complex surgical history
Robotically-Assisted Laparoscopic Reversal
- Several ultra-small incisions (all under 8 mm)
- Performed using robotic arms and a 3D camera for enhanced accuracy
- Ideal for patients with prior C-sections, high BMI, or pelvic scarring
- Shorter recovery time and minimal scarring
All procedures are done under general anesthesia, administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist. The surgery takes 1–2 hours, and you’ll go home the same day.
Postoperative visit
While optional, we strongly encourage a follow-up visit within a week of surgery. During this appointment, we’ll:
- Check your incision and healing
- Address any discomfort
- Discuss when and how to begin trying to conceive
Our closures use subcuticular stitches (a fine internal suture that dissolves naturally and minimizes visible scarring). Most patients resume light activity within 3–5 days and return to regular routines in 1–2 weeks.
