If a cyst is large, persistent, causing discomfort or pain, or appears to be cancerous, your GP may recommend surgery to remove the cyst or, in some cases, the whole ovary.
There are two types of surgery commonly used for removing ovarian cysts: laparoscopy and laparotomy. In the majority of cases, the operation is performed using laparoscopic keyhole surgery.
Most cysts can be removed via a minimally invasive keyhole procedure. This involves making three or four small incisions (5-10mm) on the tummy wall.
Gas is then blown into the pelvis to give the surgeon access to the ovaries. A laparoscope, which is a camera and special surgical instruments, are inserted to remove the ovarian cysts while preserving the healthy ovarian tissue. Once the cyst is removed, the incisions are closed using dissolvable stitches.
Minimally invasive surgery avoids the need for a large incision and has the advantage of reduced hospital stays, quick recovery times and an easy return to normal life.
When a cyst is exceptionally large or there is a high chance that it could be cancerous, a laparotomy may be the best medical option.
During a laparotomy, a single, large incision is made in the abdomen to provide the surgeon with easy access to the cyst. The entire cyst or, in some cases, the ovary, is then removed and sent to a laboratory for cancer testing. Once the procedure is complete, the incision is closed using stitches.
Laparotomy is the less preferred option as it is more invasive and requires hospital stay afterwards.
During the initial consultation, your doctor may ask you to undergo some preoperative tests, such as blood work and imaging scans, to ensure that you are in good health for the surgery. It is important to follow any dietary or medication restrictions provided by your healthcare provider in the days leading up to the surgery.
Additionally, make arrangements for your post-surgery recovery. This includes planning for someone to accompany you to the hospital and assist you with transportation and daily activities during the initial recovery period.
Depending on the specific circumstances and the recommendation of your GP, alternative treatments for ovarian cysts may be introduced.
In cases where the cyst is small and not causing any symptoms, healthcare providers may recommend regular monitoring to see if the cyst resolves on its own without the need for further intervention.
Certain types of hormonal birth control, such as contraceptive pills, can help regulate hormone levels and prevent the formation of new cysts. They may also help shrink existing cysts over time.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can help manage pain associated with ovarian cysts. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication.
At London Women’s Centre, we pride ourselves on our expertise, experience, and state-of-the-art facilities. Our dedicated team of medical professionals is highly skilled in performing ovarian cyst removal surgeries, providing the highest quality of care to our patients.
With years of experience in gynaecological surgeries, including the removal of ovarian cysts, our surgeons are well-versed in the latest surgical techniques and advancements. We prioritise patient safety and comfort, ensuring that each procedure is tailored to meet the individual needs and requirements of our patients.
Depending on the type of surgery performed, you may need to stay in the hospital for a short period of time. Laparoscopy usually requires a shorter hospital stay compared to laparotomy.
You may experience some pain and discomfort after the surgery, so you will receive pain medications to help manage any post-operative pain.
You may need to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and sexual intercourse for a certain period of time to allow your body to heal. Gradually resume your normal activities as advised by your doctor. Start with light activities and gradually increase your level of physical activity as your body allows.
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs or pockets within or on the surface of one of the ovaries. Many women will develop them at some point in their lives, and they are often discovered during routine pelvic examinations. Many of the cysts are painless and cause no symptoms, usually disappearing on their own without the need for medical attention.
Ovarian cysts that develop as a result of the normal function of the menstrual cycle are called functional cysts. These cysts are typically harmless, rarely causing pain, and often resolve on their own within two or three menstrual cycles.
Pathological Ovarian cysts are less common and form due to abnormal cell growth. These cysts include dermoid cysts, cystadenomas, and endometriomas.
An ovarian cyst typically occurs naturally and does not cause problems unless it ruptures, is very large or obstructs the blood supply to the ovaries
In any of the above cases, symptoms may include:
At London Women’s Centre, we understand the importance of financial flexibility when it comes to medical treatments. We support paying for ovarian cyst removal surgery through health insurance. If you have health insurance coverage, please check with your provider to confirm the specific details of your coverage for this procedure.
For more information on our self-pay packages and pricing options, please refer to our Health Insurance Providers page. Our dedicated team is also available to answer any pricing-related questions you may have.
Having to remove ovarian cysts is not always required. Functional (follicular) cysts often resolve on their own. Surgery may be necessary if the cysts persist or if there are symptoms.
Whether the surgery involves removing only the cyst or the entire ovary depends on your age and what is found during the procedure.
If malignancy is suspected, then the ovary should be removed in order to avoid rupture and spillage of the cyst content. In every other case though, only the cyst will be removed.
Preventing ovarian cysts may not always be possible, but taking contraceptive pills may help to a certain extent in preventing cyst formation.
If you do not experience any symptoms after removing an ovarian cyst, further tests are unnecessary. However, certain types of ovarian cysts, such as endometriomas (chocolate cysts) and functional ovarian cysts, are more likely to recur. If you are concerned about recurrent cysts, it is recommended to undergo yearly pelvic ultrasound scans.
Ovarian cyst surgery is typically performed under anaesthesia, so you should not feel any pain during the procedure. It is common to experience some pain and discomfort in the days following the surgery. You will be prescribed pain medications to help manage any post-operative pain.
The urgency of an ovarian cyst depends on several factors, including its size, symptoms, and characteristics.
In general, small ovarian cysts that are asymptomatic and appear to be functional cysts may not require immediate medical intervention. These cysts often resolve on their own within a few menstrual cycles.
However, if an ovarian cyst is large, causing severe pain or discomfort, or shows signs of being cancerous, it may require more urgent attention. In such cases, your healthcare provider may recommend surgery to remove the cyst or, in some cases, the entire ovary.
Ovarian cysts can be cancerous in some cases, although most ovarian cysts are benign (non-cancerous). It is important to consult with a specialist for proper diagnosis and evaluation of an ovarian cyst.
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