Ovarian Cystectomy
Surgical removal of an ovarian cyst while preserving healthy ovarian tissue whenever appropriate. Our gynecologic team provides personalized evaluation and surgical care for women with ovarian cysts that may require removal.
Preserving healthy ovarian tissue
When surgery is appropriate, an ovarian cystectomy is designed to remove the cyst while preserving as much healthy ovarian tissue as possible.
What is an ovarian cystectomy?
An ovarian cystectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove an ovarian cyst while attempting to preserve the healthy portion of the ovary. Ovarian cysts are common and many do not require surgery, but some cysts may become large, cause symptoms, persist over time, or have characteristics that require further evaluation.
The decision to remove an ovarian cyst depends on several factors, including the cyst's size and appearance, symptoms, age, reproductive goals, medical history, and findings from imaging or other testing.
At Magnolia Women Medical Center, treatment is individualized. Surgery is not automatically recommended simply because an ovarian cyst is present. Your physician can help determine whether observation, follow-up imaging, medication for related symptoms, or surgical treatment is appropriate.
Ovarian cystectomy at a glance
Purpose
Remove an ovarian cyst while preserving healthy ovarian tissue when medically appropriate.
Approach
Depending on the circumstances, surgery may be performed laparoscopically or through an open abdominal approach.
Evaluation
Imaging, symptoms, medical history, age, and other clinical factors help guide treatment decisions.
Recovery
Recovery varies according to the surgical approach, individual health, and complexity of the procedure.
When might an ovarian cystectomy be considered?
Many ovarian cysts resolve without surgery. A cystectomy may be considered when the cyst or the symptoms associated with it warrant surgical treatment.
Persistent cysts
Some cysts remain present during follow-up and may require additional evaluation or treatment.
Pelvic symptoms
A cyst may be associated with pelvic pressure, discomfort, bloating, or other symptoms.
Larger cysts
The size and appearance of an ovarian cyst may influence whether surgery should be considered.
Complex cysts
Certain imaging characteristics may require closer evaluation and discussion of treatment options.
Complications
Complications such as ovarian torsion or cyst rupture can require urgent medical assessment.
Clinical concern
Your physician may recommend surgery when the overall clinical picture makes removal appropriate.
Different types of ovarian cysts
Ovarian cysts can develop for different reasons. Their appearance and clinical significance can vary considerably.
Functional cysts
Functional cysts are associated with the menstrual cycle and often resolve on their own.
Endometriomas
Endometriomas are associated with endometriosis and may require specialized evaluation.
Dermoid cysts
Dermoid cysts, also called mature cystic teratomas, can contain different types of tissue.
Cystadenomas
These cysts develop from cells on the surface of the ovary and may become relatively large.
What happens before an ovarian cystectomy?
Your physician will evaluate the ovarian cyst and discuss whether surgery is appropriate for you.
Medical history and examination
Your symptoms, menstrual history, medical history, medications, reproductive goals, and previous surgeries may be reviewed.
Imaging
Pelvic ultrasound is commonly used to evaluate ovarian cysts. Additional imaging may sometimes be recommended depending on the findings.
Discussing options
Your physician can explain whether observation, additional testing, or surgery is the most appropriate next step.
Surgical planning
If surgery is recommended, your physician will explain the surgical approach, anesthesia, expected recovery, and potential risks.
How is an ovarian cystectomy performed?
The surgical approach depends on the cyst, your medical history, the surgeon's assessment, and other individual circumstances.
Laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy
Laparoscopic surgery uses small abdominal incisions and a camera to allow the surgeon to visualize and treat the cyst.
Learn about laparoscopic gynecologic surgery →Open abdominal surgery
In some situations, an open approach may be recommended, particularly when the cyst is very large or other clinical factors make this approach more appropriate.
Can an ovarian cystectomy affect fertility?
Fertility considerations are an important part of planning ovarian surgery, particularly for women who may want to become pregnant in the future.
The goal of an ovarian cystectomy is generally to remove the cyst while preserving as much healthy ovarian tissue as possible when this is medically appropriate. However, the effect on ovarian function can vary depending on the type and size of the cyst, the amount of ovarian tissue involved, the surgical technique, and whether one or both ovaries are affected.
If future pregnancy is important to you, tell your physician before surgery so your reproductive goals can be incorporated into the treatment discussion.
Ovarian cystectomy recovery
Recovery depends on the surgical technique and your individual circumstances.
Immediately after surgery
You may experience abdominal discomfort, fatigue, bloating, or soreness as your body begins to recover.
Activity
Your physician will provide individualized instructions about walking, exercise, lifting, driving, and returning to normal activities.
Follow-up
Follow-up appointments allow your physician to assess healing and review pathology results when tissue has been sent for laboratory examination.
Returning to normal
The timeline varies from person to person and is influenced by the surgical approach and complexity of the procedure.
Risks and considerations
Ovarian cystectomy is a surgical procedure and, like other operations, carries potential risks. The specific risks depend on the surgical approach and individual circumstances.
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Blood clots
- Injury to nearby organs or tissues
- Scar tissue or adhesions
- Need for additional treatment
- Damage to ovarian tissue or reduced ovarian function
- Conversion from minimally invasive surgery to an open procedure when medically necessary
Your physician will discuss the risks and benefits relevant to your individual situation before surgery.
When should you seek immediate medical attention?
Sudden or severe pelvic or abdominal pain, particularly when accompanied by nausea, vomiting, fainting, dizziness, fever, or heavy bleeding, can require urgent medical evaluation.
If you are experiencing severe or rapidly worsening symptoms, seek emergency medical care rather than waiting for a routine appointment.
Explore related care
Ovarian cystectomy FAQs
These answers provide general educational information. Your physician can provide guidance based on your individual medical history and ovarian cyst findings.
What is an ovarian cystectomy?
An ovarian cystectomy is surgery to remove an ovarian cyst while preserving healthy ovarian tissue when medically appropriate.
Do all ovarian cysts require surgery?
No. Many ovarian cysts resolve without treatment. Whether surgery is appropriate depends on factors such as symptoms, cyst size, appearance, persistence, age, medical history, and other clinical findings.
Is ovarian cystectomy the same as removing an ovary?
No. A cystectomy removes the cyst and aims to preserve the ovary. In some circumstances, removal of part or all of an ovary may be necessary based on the cyst or surgical findings.
Can ovarian cystectomy preserve fertility?
The procedure is often performed with the goal of preserving ovarian tissue when appropriate. However, fertility effects vary depending on the cyst, the ovary, the surgical procedure, and individual circumstances.
Can an ovarian cyst come back after surgery?
A new ovarian cyst can develop after a cystectomy. The likelihood depends on the type of cyst and other individual factors.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery varies. People generally recover differently depending on whether the procedure is laparoscopic or open and on the complexity of the surgery.
Will the removed cyst be tested?
Tissue removed during surgery may be sent to a pathology laboratory for examination. Your physician can explain what testing is recommended in your particular case.
What should I ask my gynecologist before surgery?
Consider asking why surgery is recommended, what alternatives exist, which surgical approach is planned, how the procedure may affect ovarian function and fertility, expected recovery, and potential complications.
Have questions about an ovarian cyst?
Schedule a consultation to discuss your symptoms, imaging findings, treatment options, and whether ovarian cystectomy may be appropriate for you.