Suite 9.4, Level 9 Epworth Hospital, 89 Bridge Road Richmond VIC 3121
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Book NowOvarian Cystectomy Melbourne
Dr Hugo Fernandes
Keyhole surgery solutions for ovarian cyst removal.
Removing Stubborn Ovarian Cysts
Many women will be walking around in their day-to-day lives, and never even know that they have or have had an ovarian cyst. These cysts are sacs, typically filled with fluid, that grow inside an ovary or on its surface. Developing an ovarian cyst is extremely common, and in most cases, cysts are completely harmless. You will likely feel little to no discomfort or pain whatsoever, and the cyst will go away on its own within a few months without treatment.
There are situations, however, where having an ovarian cyst can cause complications. Particularly large cysts can cause severe pelvic pain, sharp pains below the belly button, abnormal bloating, and a feeling of pressure or heaviness in your abdomen. Ovarian cysts can also become twisted or rupture, causing them to burst open and cause more serious health problems.
Fortunately, if an ovarian cyst isn’t going away quietly and is causing you problems, an ovarian cystectomy can handle the situation swiftly. In some cases, before proceeding with an ovarian cystectomy, a hysteroscopy may be performed to further investigate the situation and provide a detailed view of the uterus.
What is an Ovarian Cystectomy?
If an ovarian cyst won’t go away, grows larger, or causes pain, then your doctor may refer you to a gynaecologist for an ovarian cystectomy. This procedure is extremely safe and straightforward. It is designed to remove ovarian cysts safely and quickly, providing a surgical solution for cysts that won’t disappear on their own. In many cases, it is possible to do this as a minor and minimally invasive keyhole surgery, however more severe cases could require a slightly larger operation. You will be recommended one of two cystectomy operations: a laparoscopic cystectomy, or an open cystectomy. An experienced gynaecologist or fertility specialist in Melbourne will be able to examine your cyst and current health to better advise you on which method may be most appropriate.
Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy
A laparoscopic cystectomy uses thin tools to view your reproductive and pelvic organs with only minimal, small surgical incisions being necessary. Your surgeon will insert a laparoscope, which is a tiny camera with a light on top, into your abdomen through this small incision. From there, they can get a comprehensive view of the inside of your abdomen. Typically, with just two other small incisions, your surgeon will then insert surgical tools to remove the ovarian cyst safely. This procedure is straightforward, commonly practiced, and usually the best course of action for most cysts in need of removal.
Open Ovarian Cystectomy
Surgeons will typically recommend a laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy when they can, as this operation is minimally invasive and easier to recover from in a short amount of time. However, there are circumstances in which an open ovarian cystectomy is needed. This could be because the ovarian cyst itself is particularly large, or it may be because they suspect it may be cancerous. Either way, this procedure will be completed using one large incision in your abdomen to gain access to your ovaries and remove the cyst.
Ovarian Cystectomy Risks and Complications
There’s no need to be scared going into your ovarian cystectomy. It’s important to remember that this procedure is incredibly common, and your surgeon will likely have performed plenty of cystectomies in their time. Laparoscopic ovarian cystectomies will be relatively quick and easy to recover from, and likely will have very few side effects. However, every surgery will inherently come with some small risks. Your surgeon will be able to walk you through all these associated risks, which will include:
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Poor reaction to anaesthesia
- Bleeding during surgery
- Requiring a blood transfusion
- Damage to surrounding organs, such as the bladder and bowel
- Possible need to remove the ovary
- Possible need for further surgical treatments
Why choose Dr Hugo?
20 Years Experience
Experience is key. For the sake of your health, it is crucial to work with a surgeon you can trust – and with over two decades of experience providing unparalleled care, you will be safe in the hands of Dr Hugo Fernandes.
Compassionate Care
You deserve to feel safe when you visit your doctor. Dr Hugo has prioritised creating a safe and welcoming environment inside his fertility clinic, dedicating his life to providing patient, compassionate, and understanding care to help you feel comfortable.
Women’s Health Advocate
For over twenty years, Dr Hugo has been a vocal advocate for the importance of women’s health services. This has been achieved by actively seeking to listen to patients, making crucial services readily available, and providing tailored treatment solutions to suit individual patient needs.
Your Ovarian Cystectomy Questions Answered
What is the ovarian cystectomy recovery time?
Most women will find that they need to take it easy during their first week after a cystectomy, as they may experience feelings of tiredness or discomfort. After that period, you will be able to start gradually easing back into your regular routine.
Who is a good candidate for an ovarian cystectomy?
To be recommended an ovarian cystectomy, you will need to have gone through an official diagnostic test to confirm the presence of a cyst. If your cyst is causing you pain, could be cancerous, or is abnormally large, then a cystectomy may be the right treatment.
How long do I need to stay in the hospital after an ovarian cystectomy?
In the vast majority of cases, a cystectomy is a day procedure. This means you will come in for the operation and go home all on the same day. Only in particular circumstances, such as if there are surgical complications, will you need to stay longer.
Are there any alternatives to an ovarian cystectomy?
An ovarian cystectomy is the surgical solution for cyst removal. The alternative options are hormonal therapies or treatments, or the cyst going away on its own, but if a cystectomy is recommended then it is unlikely for either of these options to provide a solution.
What are the ovarian cystectomy side effects?
It is normal to experience some pain or bruising in the abdomen following your cystectomy. You may find yourself feeling tired, sore, and tender around the incision site. Your surgeon will provide personalised advice regarding when to return to work, exercise, sexual activity, and other routines.
Call Today for an Appointment With Dr Hugo Fernandes
Hearing that you need any type of surgery, no matter how minor or common the procedure may be, is intimidating. It’s natural to be fearful about the process, the side effects, the recovery – all of it! Fortunately, going through a journey like this isn’t something you have to do alone. Dr Hugo Fernandes is ready to walk with you every step of the way, answering questions and providing personalised treatment solutions to suit your needs. If you think you may need an ovarian cystectomy, call today and book your appointment.
