Ovarian Cystectomy in Leesburg
Many women will have or have already had an ovarian cyst. Most cysts go unnoticed and disappear without any interventions. However, in some cases, cysts will persist, enlarge, and result in symptoms requiring treatment or surgery.
If you are experiencing difficulties associated with ovarian cysts learning about your options for an ovarian cystectomy in Leesburg is a good start. This uncertain time might feel overwhelming. That is normal. Fortunately, our caring gynecological surgeons are ready to help and support you through this process.
What to Expect During a Cystectomy Procedure
Ovarian cystectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove ovarian cysts. By creating small incisions made in the abdomen a gynecologist in our Leesburg or Centreville office may remove certain ovarian cysts with a minimally invasive laparoscopic cystectomy.
During this procedure, a doctor administers general anesthesia, and an incision is made, usually in the naval. The OBGYN then bloats the stomach with air or gas, allowing for better accessibility to the internal pelvic structures. Two or three more incisions are made for the gynecologist to access the ovaries with slender instruments. Then, the gynecological surgeon excises the cysts and removes them through the small incisions.
What Types of Cysts Might Require Surgery?
Most cysts are considered physiological or functional and arise during a women’s menstrual cycle. These cysts frequently go unnoticed and cause no issues. Other cysts such as those that are considered pathological, can cause enough discomfort to prompt a patient to contact their doctor.
Pathological cysts often require treatment due to being symptomatic. The goal with laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy is to remove the cyst(s) while preserving healthy ovarian tissue that support fertility. Patients in Leesburg or Centreville who are candidates for an ovarian cystectomy could have any combination of the following:
- Cysts on both ovaries
- Have a cyst greater than three inches in Diameter
- Have cysts and are postmenopausal
- Experience discomfort from a known cyst
- A cyst under observation that has enlarged or not improved
Preparing for a Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy
Before the procedure, the providing gynecologist will perform a physical exam that may include blood or urine laboratory testing. In addition, the patient should provide the doctor with a list of prescribed and over-the-counter medications they are taking for the provider to review. Finally, the gynecologist may order A CT scan or ultrasound.
Leesburg patients who undergo a laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy may feel groggy after surgery due to medications used during the procedure. On the day of surgery, the patient should arrange for a ride home and consider having someone care for them during the early recovery period.
Recovery from a Cystectomy
A minimally invasive laparoscopic cystectomy is an outpatient procedure, meaning most patients will go home the same day as their operation. After surgery, the gas used to expand the abdomen may travel into the shoulder joints and cause a dull ache. Patients may also have tenderness and bruising around the naval and other incisions. The first week after surgery most patients feel more tired than usual and may need to rest. Activity can slowly increase as tolerated until the patient has reached full abilities again. After a woman in Leesburg or Centreville receives an ovarian cystectomy, she should discuss the recovery process with her OBGYN.
Contact a Leesburg Gynecologist to Discuss a Minimally Invasive Ovarian Cystectomy
Finding out you need surgery to treat your ovarian cysts can be scary. We understand this is a stressful time in your life. The goal is to ease that stress by answering your questions, supporting your decisions, and providing a minimally invasive option for your cystectomy.
Reach out to schedule an appointment if you have been told you need surgery for your ovarian cysts. Our qualified team is available to answer questions and offer accurate information as you navigate your ovarian cystectomy in Leesburg or Centreville.