Ovarian Cystectomy

What Happens During an Ovarian Cystectomy?

1. Before Surgery

• You will receive general anesthesia to ensure you’re comfortable and asleep during the procedure.

• A pelvic exam, ultrasound, or MRI may be performed prior to surgery to locate and assess the cyst.
  
  

2. During Surgery

• Small incisions are made in your abdomen.

• A laparoscope (a thin camera) and fine instruments are inserted.

• The cyst is carefully separated from the ovary and removed, while the remaining ovarian tissue is preserved.

• The incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures.
  
  

3. After Surgery

• Most patients go home the same day.

• You may experience mild soreness, bloating, or spotting for a few days.

• Recovery typically takes 1–2 weeks for laparoscopic surgery.
  
  

Who Is a Candidate for Ovarian Cystectomy?

You may be a good candidate for cyst removal if you have:

• A cyst that is larger than 5 cm

• Symptoms like pelvic pain, bloating, or irregular periods

• A complex cyst or one that appears abnormal on imaging

• A ruptured or twisted cyst (ovarian torsion)

• Difficulty conceiving due to cysts such as endometriomas
  
  

Your gynecologist will evaluate your symptoms, imaging, and reproductive goals before recommending surgery.

What Are the Risks and Side Effects?

Ovarian cystectomy is generally safe, especially when performed laparoscopically. However, like any surgery, there are some risks:

• Bleeding or infection

• Scar tissue formation (adhesions)

• Recurrence of cysts

• Damage to the ovary or, rarely, need for ovary removal
  
  

Most women return to normal activities within 1–2 weeks and report improved comfort and relief from symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Will I still have my ovary after surgery?
A: Yes, in most cases the ovary is preserved. Only the cyst is removed.

Q: Does this affect fertility?
A: Not typically. In fact, for women trying to conceive, cyst removal may improve fertility if the cyst was causing hormonal imbalance or anatomical

distortion.

Q: Is this a major surgery?
A: No. Laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure with a quick recovery.

Q: How do I know if I need surgery or not?
A: Some cysts resolve on their own. Surgery is considered when cysts persist, grow, cause pain, or look suspicious on imaging. We’ll monitor and guide you every step of the way.

Q: Will the cyst come back?
A: Some women may develop new cysts in the future, especially if they have conditions like PCOS or endometriosis. Regular monitoring and hormonal management may help reduce recurrence.