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A tubal ligation reversal can be done as an inpatient or outpatient procedure. The procedure typically takes one to three hours.
During the procedure
To do a tubal ligation reversal, your doctor will make a small incision in your abdomen (minilaparotomy) and expose your uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. Using a microscope as an aid, the doctor will remove blocked fragments of the fallopian tube and attempt to repair the tube with tiny absorbable stitches. Remember, your health care provider may not be able to reattach one or both of your fallopian tubes if too much was removed during the tubal ligation.
After the procedure
It may take a week or more to recover from tubal ligation reversal surgery.
Avoid using aspirin for pain relief after tubal ligation reversal, since it may promote bleeding. You may bathe 48 hours after the procedure, but avoid straining or rubbing the incision for one week. Carefully dry the incision after bathing by patting it with a towel.
Avoid strenuous lifting and sex for two weeks. Resume your normal activities gradually as you begin to feel better. Your stitches will dissolve and won't require removal. Make an appointment to see your health care provider a week after surgery so he or she can make sure you're healing properly.
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