Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy
Also known as: keyhole surgery to remove ovarian cysts, minimally invasive ovarian cyst removal
Laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy is a minimally invasive surgery to remove ovarian cysts while aiming to preserve healthy ovarian tissue.
What are ovarian cysts?
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop in or on one or both ovaries. They are common, particularly in women of reproductive age, and most are non-cancerous (benign). Most form naturally during the menstrual cycle and cause no symptoms. In many cases, they resolve on their own without treatment.
However, some cysts can grow larger or cause symptoms such as pelvic pain or pressure. In certain situations, they may affect the blood supply to the ovary or lead to complications such as torsion or rupture, which can cause sudden, severe pain and require urgent medical attention.
When does an ovarian cyst become a concern?
Ovarian cysts vary in size, and while many small cysts are harmless, larger cysts may require closer monitoring. Cysts under 5 centimetres are often managed conservatively, particularly if they are simple in appearance and not causing symptoms.
Cysts measuring between 5 and 10 centimetres, or those with complex features on ultrasound, may require further evaluation. Larger cysts can increase the risk of pain, ovarian torsion, or rupture. Surgery may be recommended if a cyst is persistent, growing, causing symptoms, or shows features that raise concern.
The decision to remove a cyst depends not only on its size but also on symptoms, imaging findings, age, overall health, and future fertility plans. Sudden severe pain, fever, or worsening symptoms should always be assessed urgently.
What is a laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy?
A laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy is a minimally invasive (keyhole) procedure used to remove an ovarian cyst while preserving as much healthy ovarian tissue as possible. It is performed through small incisions in the abdomen using a camera and specialised instruments. Compared with open surgery, it typically involves less pain, smaller scars, and a faster recovery. The removed cyst is usually sent for laboratory testing.
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Ways to payBefore the procedure
Initial consultation
During your initial consultation, your gynaecologist will assess your symptoms, review imaging tests such as ultrasound scans, and discuss your medical history. They will explain the potential risks and benefits of ovarian cyst removal surgery and help you understand the treatment options, including watchful waiting if the cyst is small and not causing symptoms. If surgery is recommended, you will receive detailed information about the procedure and what to expect before, during, and after surgery.
Preparation for the procedure
Before the surgery, you may be advised to follow specific instructions, such as fasting for several hours beforehand and stopping certain medications. A pre-assessment appointment will be arranged to review your medical history, current medications, and any allergies to ensure you are fit for a general anaesthetic and surgery. Your surgeon will also explain the potential risks of the procedure, such as infection or blood clots, before asking for your consent. It is important to arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure and to have support available for the first 24 hours after surgery.
During the procedure
Laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy is performed under general anaesthetic, meaning you will be asleep throughout the surgery. The surgeon makes small incisions in the abdominal wall, usually including one near the belly button, through which surgical instruments and a laparoscope (a small camera) are inserted. The abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide gas to create space and improve visibility of the internal organs. The surgeon carefully removes only the cyst and its cyst wall, avoiding damage to the surrounding tissue and ovary. The cyst removed is typically sent for laboratory examination to check for ovarian cancer or other abnormalities. The incisions are closed with dissolvable stitches or surgical glue, and patients usually experience less pain and faster recovery compared to open surgery.
After the procedure
After surgery, you will be monitored in the recovery area as you wake from the anaesthesia. Before being discharged, you will receive guidance on wound care, activity levels, and signs of possible complications such as infection or blood clots. A follow-up appointment will be arranged to review your recovery and discuss the pathology results. It is common to experience some abdominal discomfort and light vaginal spotting for up to 48 hours. You may feel tired for several days and can use simple pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen as advised. Gradually, you can return to normal activities and sexual intercourse as advised by your gynaecologist.
Appointment and Treatment Plan
Initial Consultation
Your gynaecologist will review your symptoms, ultrasound findings, and medical history. They will assess the size and appearance of the ovarian cyst and discuss whether monitoring or surgery is most appropriate. Your fertility plans and overall health will also be considered before recommending treatment.
Pre-Operative Assessment
If surgery is advised, you’ll attend a pre-assessment appointment to ensure you’re fit for general anaesthetic. You may need blood tests and occasionally additional imaging. You’ll receive instructions about fasting before surgery and whether to pause certain medications.
Surgery
Under general anaesthetic, small incisions are made in the abdomen. A laparoscope (camera) and surgical instruments are inserted, and carbon dioxide gas is used to gently inflate the abdomen for better visibility. The surgeon carefully separates and removes the cyst while preserving healthy ovarian tissue whenever possible. The cyst is sent for laboratory analysis.
Immediate Recovery
After surgery, you’ll be monitored in the recovery area as you wake from the anaesthetic. Mild abdominal discomfort and light vaginal spotting are common.
Ongoing Recovery at Home
You’ll be encouraged to move gently but avoid heavy lifting for several weeks. Light daily activities can usually resume within a few days, with most people returning to work within 2–3 weeks depending on the nature of their job. Pain is typically manageable with simple pain relief.
Follow-Up Appointment
A follow-up consultation will review your healing and discuss the pathology results of the removed cyst. Your consultant will also advise on any further monitoring or treatment if required.
Experts
We are proud to provide patients with access to a wide range of clinicians, chosen specifically for their knowledge and reputation in their area of expertise. Our experts align with our values: putting you at the centre of your care and educating you on your options at each step of the journey. We encourage you to learn more about our clinicians and how they can help you below. As always, please contact our patient services team if you require any additional information.
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Our payment options are designed to offer you easy access to our treatments and services. You can choose to pay on the day, spread the cost, or use your private medical insurance.
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Pay in Advance
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Spread the cost monthly
Paying for your treatment at One Stop Healthcare can be spread monthly from 12 to 60 months, rather than paying in one go.
With an upfront 10% deposit paid, via our Financial partner Chrysalis Finance, we offer various flexible terms to enable you to spread the cost, including 12-months at 0% APR. Click here to find out more.
Monthly payments need to be linked to a One Stop Healthcare treatment over £385 and is subject to a 14-day ‘cooling-off’ period before any treatment can start.
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Pay using PMI
We are recognised by all major health insurance companies and with our extensive range of services, there are lots of benefits to using your insurance with us. Our patient services team is here to answer any questions you may have about using your private health insurance with us.
Please bring along your policy details including your scheme details, membership or policy number, expiry date and confirmation of eligibility to claim (i.e. your authorisation number). If you do not have these details with you, we will require payment from you on the day. Patients are liable for any amounts not settled by their insurer.
FAQs
The timeline for returning to work after a laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy varies depending on the individual and the nature of their job. Generally, most patients can expect to return to work within two to three weeks following surgery. If your job is not physically demanding, you might be able to resume work sooner, possibly on a part-time basis initially. However, if your work involves heavy lifting, strenuous activity, or prolonged standing, your gynaecologist may recommend a longer recovery period to ensure proper healing and avoid complications. It is important to listen to your body and follow the advice of your surgical team to determine when it is safe to return to your usual work routine.
An ovarian cyst should be considered for removal if it is causing symptoms such as pelvic pain, pressure, or discomfort, or if it is large enough to pose a risk of complications like ovarian torsion or rupture. Surgery may also be recommended if imaging tests reveal features that suggest the cyst could be cancerous or if the cyst persists or grows over time despite conservative management. Additionally, cysts that interfere with the blood supply to the ovary or cause distortion of the ovarian tissue often require surgical intervention. Your healthcare provider will assess your individual case through clinical evaluation and imaging studies to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy is considered a minimally invasive surgery and is associated with smaller incisions, less pain, and quicker recovery compared to open surgery. However, in cases where the cyst is very large, suspected to be malignant, or if complications arise during laparoscopic surgery, open surgery (laparotomy) may be necessary. Regardless of the approach, ovarian cyst removal is a significant surgical procedure that requires careful planning and post-operative care.
Ovarian cystectomy offers several advantages, including the preservation of as much healthy ovarian tissue as possible, which is particularly important for women who wish to maintain fertility. By removing only the cyst and its cyst wall, the procedure minimises damage to the ovary and surrounding structures. Laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy, in particular, is associated with less post-operative pain, reduced risk of wound infection, shorter hospital stays, and faster return to normal activities compared to open surgery. Additionally, surgical removal of cysts helps prevent complications such as ovarian torsion, rupture, and potential malignancy. The removed cyst is also sent for laboratory analysis, providing a definitive diagnosis and guiding further treatment if necessary.
After ovarian cystectomy, follow-up care typically includes a post-operative appointment to assess wound healing, manage any pain or complications, and discuss the pathology results of the removed cyst. Your healthcare provider may recommend ultrasound scans to monitor the ovaries and detect any new or recurrent cysts. Depending on the type of cyst removed and your individual risk factors, further tests or treatments may be advised. It is important to report any unusual symptoms such as severe pain, fever, or abnormal vaginal bleeding promptly. In some cases, referral to a specialist or additional surgical intervention might be necessary. Regular follow-up helps ensure optimal recovery and long-term ovarian health.
In most cases, ovarian cystectomy involves removing only the cyst and preserving the ovary. However, there are situations where removal of the entire ovary (oophorectomy) may be recommended. This can occur if the cyst is very large, there are concerns about malignancy, or if the ovary is severely damaged or compromised. The decision to remove the ovary is made carefully by your surgical team, taking into account your age, reproductive plans, and overall health. Preserving the ovary whenever possible is preferred to maintain hormonal function and fertility. Your surgeon will discuss the options with you before surgery and explain the reasons if ovary removal becomes necessary.