What to Expect When You Need an Ovarian Cyst Removed

Around 10% of women experience ovarian cysts, which are benign fluid-filled sacs that develop on the ovaries from hormone imbalances or failed ovulation. Ovarian cysts are usually about the size of a cherry or smaller, don’t cause any trouble, and go away on their own. However, they can sometimes grow larger, which can cause pain and disruptions to your menstrual cycle. Having cysts that are large or multiple ovarian cysts can even affect your fertility. 

If your cyst is painful, growing, or not going away, your doctor may recommend ovarian cystectomy surgery. This procedure is designed to remove the ovarian cyst while preserving the ovary, keeping as much healthy ovarian tissue intact as possible, and supporting future hormone balance and fertility whenever feasible.

If an ovarian cyst removal surgery is in your future, read on to learn exactly what to expect during your procedure, how to set yourself up for a fast recovery, and where to find the best ovarian cyst surgeon in Los Angeles.

How is an Ovarian Cystectomy Procedure Done?

Understanding the ovarian cystectomy procedure can help to ease some of the anxiety that naturally builds in the days leading up to surgery day. It helps to understand that most cystectomies are done with minimally invasive surgical techniques. Often, ovarian cyst removal is done laparoscopically, which means the best ovarian cyst surgeon in Los Angeles makes only a few small incisions in your lower abdomen, instead of large ones. Your belly button is also used to cleverly hide one of the incisions. 

Through these openings, a thin camera called a laparoscope and small instruments are used to see your ovary on a monitor and carefully separate the cyst from healthy tissue. This approach is used for uncomplicated cysts and usually leads to less soreness and a quicker return to normal activity. 

Large or Complex Cysts

In the rare cases when a cyst is very large, suspicious, or causing significant bleeding, an open surgery called a laparotomy may be necessary. This involves a larger incision in the lower abdomen to give the surgeon direct access and a clear view. 

Anesthesia and Surgery Time

Regardless of which surgical approach your surgeon uses, you will receive general anesthesia, so you will be fully asleep and will not feel or hear anything during the procedure. The surgery itself often takes about one to two hours, depending on the size and number of cysts that need to be removed. 

What are the Risks of Ovarian Cyst Removal?

Like any surgery, ovarian cyst removal carries some risks. Common surgical risks include: 

• Bleeding during or after the procedure
• Infection of the surgical site, which may cause redness, warmth, swelling, or drainage at the incision site
• Irritation around the small cuts on your abdomen that can feel tender or bruised for several days
• Unintentional injury to tissues or organs surrounding the ovaries, including the fallopian tubes, uterus, and bladder. 
• Scar tissue or adhesions developing inside the pelvis
• Removal of an ovary in uncommon situations when a cyst is too large, deeply embedded, or suspicious for cancer

To reduce your chances of experiencing any complications, your care team will monitor you closely for these issues and recommend that you go to the emergency room if you develop a fever or pain increases beyond mild soreness. 

How Long Does it Take to Recover from an Ovarian Cystectomy?

Recovery after an ovarian cystectomy starts in the post-operative care unit. If you had laparoscopic surgery, you will likely go home once you are awake, able to sip water and walk around, and your pain is controlled. 

It is common to feel sore around the small incision sites and to notice bloating or shoulder discomfort from the gas used during surgery. Your post-operative care team will encourage you to stand and take a few slow walks within hours because gentle movement lowers the risk of blood clots and helps your bowels wake up. 

Most people who have laparoscopic surgery return to light daily activities within one to two weeks, while open surgery usually requires a longer recovery of four to six weeks. Your surgeon will give clear guidelines about lifting, exercise, and driving. 

How Does Getting an Ovarian Cyst Removed Affect Fertility and Hormones?

With most ovarian cystectomies, the goal is to remove the cyst and keep the ovary itself in place so it can continue releasing eggs each month. For many women, this means restoring a regular menstrual cycle and improving the odds of getting pregnant. If one ovary must be removed, the other ovary will continue to ovulate and produce hormones on its own. 

Ovarian Cyst Removal: How to Prepare for Surgery

Preparing for your ovarian cystectomy before surgery day sets you up for a faster and more comfortable recovery. As you prepare for surgery, here are a few things to keep in mind: 

• Go over the instructions about when to stop eating and drinking before surgery with your surgeon. Usually, you will not be able to eat or drink after midnight the night before surgery.
• Plan to arrive at the surgery center or hospital a few hours before the procedure, to allow time for check-in, changing into a hospital gown, and meeting your nurse and anesthesia provider
• Bring a photo ID, insurance information, a list of medications, and comfortable clothes that are loose around your waist for the ride home
• Talk about pain management before your surgery, and fill any prescriptions that your doctor writes for you 
• Plan to have someone drive you home after surgery, and stay with you for at least 24 hours, as you will be extremely groggy after anesthesia 
• Set up a space at home where you have important things within reach, like books to read, the TV remote, and extra-long charging cords
• Meal prep a few days' worth of food and snacks, so you don’t have to spend time cooking when you need to be resting

Discover the Best Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgeon in Los Angeles for Ovarian Cyst Removal

If an ovarian cystectomy is in your future, you have a lot to look forward to. Getting ovarian cysts removed can help relieve you from pain, pressure, irregular cycles, and fertility uncertainty. Choosing the best ovarian cyst surgeon in Los Angeles ensures your surgery goes exactly as planned and your recovery will be fast and easy. 

At our practice, Dr. Siedhoff focuses on gentle, minimally invasive ovarian cyst removal whenever possible. Smaller incisions, careful tissue handling, and precise surgical steps can mean you have less disruption to your body and a smoother path back to daily life. 

Ready to get effective ovarian cyst removal at the gentle and compassionate hands of the best minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon in Los Angeles?