Skip to navigation Skip to content
Sulis hospital bath banner

Ovarian cyst removal

An ovarian cystectomy, a surgical procedure performed to address ovarian cysts, can be carried out using two different types of surgical approaches.

Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop within or around the ovaries. Typically, they are non-cancerous and often asymptomatic. In many cases, they resolve spontaneously without the need for intervention. However, when a cyst is large or continues to cause symptoms, a healthcare provider may recommend an ovarian cystectomy. The specific surgical method chosen will depend on the size and characteristics of the ovarian cyst.

Here's what happens during surgery

Laparoscopic Surgery: This approach is commonly employed. The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia. The surgeon makes several small incisions in the abdominal area. A laparoscope, a slender tube equipped with a camera and a light source, is inserted through one incision to illuminate and inspect the area around the ovaries.

The surgeon can display images from the laparoscope on a monitor. Tiny surgical instruments or lasers are inserted through the other incisions to remove the cyst and seal the affected area on the ovary. The incisions are closed using stitches.

Laparotomy: This method is used when there's a suspicion that the cyst is large or requires a more invasive approach. The surgeon accesses the cyst through a larger incision in the abdominal area. The cyst is removed through this incision, and in certain cases, one or both ovaries may also need to be removed.

Samples may be sent to a laboratory for cancer screening. The incision is closed with stitches. Patients undergoing laparotomy may be advised to wear compression socks to reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (blood clots).

After ovarian cystectomy, patients who undergo laparoscopic surgery may have the option to return home on the same day, while others may need to stay in the hospital for one or two nights.

Driving is not recommended, so arrangements should be made for transportation.

After the surgery, you may experience abdominal discomfort for approximately 7-10 days, and it is essential to adhere to any prescribed pain relief medication. The healthcare team will provide guidance on caring for your surgical wounds and schedule a follow-up appointment.

Recovery times vary from person to person, but a full recovery may typically take three to four weeks. It's important to follow any recommendations regarding the resumption of strenuous activities.

Like any surgical procedure, complications can occur, including:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Pain
  • Blood clots, specifically deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Specific complications related to ovarian cystectomy may include:

  • Damage to other organs
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Fever or chills
  • Vaginal discharge
  • Surgical wound infection.

Fast access to world-class experts, diagnosis and treatment:

  • Personalised treatment plans tailored to your individual needs.
  • Compassionate care focused on you.
  • High-quality care in an award-winning modern hospital.
  • Enhanced aftercare recovery plans.
  • Affordable and fixed-price treatment costs.
  • Flexible payment options so you can spread the cost.

Treatment Overview

Combining a calming hospital environment with outstanding patient care so you can recover as quickly as possible.

  • Covered by health insurance? Yes

  • Can I pay privately? Yes

You’re in safe hands at Sulis Hospital.

Enquire now

Talk to the experts

Related treatments

You may also be interested in the treatments below.

Fast track your treatment

Have any questions or just need a guide price, simply fill in your details below. We're here to help you.

We would like to provide you with marketing information about products and services offered by Sulis Hospital Bath and by selected third-party partners. If you do not consent for us to process your personal data for marketing activities, we will still be able to contact you about your enquiry.

Please tick the box(es) to confirm your consent to receive marketing information from the Sulis Hospital Bath:

Marketing information

We will use your personal information to process your enquiry and contact you with relevant information. For further information, please see our website privacy policy.