Ovarian cyst surgery (cystectomy) is a procedure where the surgeon removes a cyst (a fluid-filled sac) from the patient's ovary. This surgery aims to preserve as much healthy ovarian tissue as possible. The surgery is minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, but in rare cases, an open operation or removal of the ovary (oophorectomy) might be performed.
Remember, the information below is solely for educational purposes and not a substitute for medical advice. Artemis Hospitals' experienced gynaecologist will tailor recommendations as per the patient's age, symptoms, and diagnostic test results.
Why is Ovarian Cyst Surgery Needed?
The patient is advised to seek ovarian cystectomy if they're at risk of fertility issues, severe infection, etc. Let's take a deep dive and learn when the doctor will advise you to undergo ovarian cyst surgery.
If the cyst is bigger than 5 to 7 cm, there is a less likely chance that it'll dissolve with medication and go away naturally. When the cysts are bigger in size, they can press on nearby organs and cause discomfort.
A larger cyst can cause many problems, such as pain, bloating, or discomfort during sex, which can be helped with ovarian cyst surgery. You get relief from these symptoms.
Complications related to the cyst
There is a possibility that the cyst might burst, and this can cause sudden pain and bleeding. And if the size of the cyst is big, there is a risk of the ovary twisting on its supporting tissues, and it would be a medical emergency.
Most ovarian cysts are not cancerous, especially in the case of a younger patient. But if the cyst looks unusual on the scans or if the patient is postmenopausal, doctors may want to remove it to check for cancer.
What are the Common Symptoms Leading to Ovarian Cystectomy?
The patient can identify the common symptoms that indicate the need for surgery to remove the cyst. And if they're unaware of the presence of a cyst, the same would be diagnosed in the physical examination or pelvic ultrasound. So what would be the signs that will take you to the doctor's appointment for the diagnosis or to seek treatment?
- Persistent or worsening lower-abdominal/pelvic pain
- Bloating, abdominal fullness or pressure
- Painful periods or pain during sex
- Frequent urination or constipation due to pressure on nearby organs
- Acute, sharp pain with nausea/vomiting (can indicate rupture or torsion—an emergency)
- Menstrual irregularities (Irregular Periods)
- Difficulty conceiving when the cyst is interfering with ovulation or pelvic anatomy
What are the Types of Surgeries Performed to Treat Ovarian Cysts?
The surgeon may advise different types of surgeries to treat ovarian cysts depending on the patient's condition and past medical records. Here are some common procedures performed to treat the ovarian cyst via surgery:
Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy
Laparoscopy is a keyhole surgery in which 3–4 tiny incisions are made by the surgeon. A laparoscope is a rigid or semi-rigid telescope-like instrument, also with a camera and light, that is inserted through an incision. Now this thin instrument will peel the cyst from the ovary.
The benefits of this surgical procedure are less pain, smaller scars, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery. Most functional cysts, dermoid cysts, and endometriomas can be treated this way.
Open Surgery (Laparotomy)
Laparotomy is advised for the patient in case the cyst is too big to treat via laparoscopy. In this, a larger incision is made by the surgeon in the lower abdomen.
This procedure is opted for in case of complex cases; with this, the surgeon gets a clear view of the cyst and its surrounding tissues. So they can remove the cyst carefully, securing the surrounding walls of the ovary.
The surgeon advises oophorectomy when the cyst has replaced most of the ovary, in post-menopausal women, or when malignancy is suspected/confirmed. The surgical procedure could be unilateral (one ovary removed) or bilateral (both).
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Who May Need Ovarian Cyst Surgery?
The patient has to pay attention to the common symptoms of ovarian cysts and consult with an expert gynaecologist to seek the right treatment for their condition. Here are the conditions that require immediate surgical attention for the ovarian cyst.
- Women with Large or Painful Cysts
- Cysts persisting beyond several menstrual cycles
- Cysts typically >5–10 cm, or any size, causing significant symptoms
- Cysts Causing Fertility Issues
- Endometriomas or cysts distorting the tubes/ovary or interfering with egg retrieval in IVF.
- Cysts suspected to be hormonally active or recurrent
- Suspicious or Cancerous Cysts
- Complex features on ultrasound/MRI
- Elevated or concerning tumour markers
- Post-menopausal complex cysts
How to Prepare for Ovarian Cyst Surgery?
Consult with the best gynaecologist after a pelvic exam, ultrasound and MRI; if needed, they'll tell you whether you qualify for surgery or not.
Proper blood tests, kidney/liver function, and tumour markers were done before confirming your surgery. You will be guided to stop any blood thinners or certain supplements.
Typically, it is advised to fast for 6–8 hours pre-anaesthesia. And do plan for the recovery at this stage, such as arranging a carer to accompany you home, comfortable clothing, etc.
Discuss ovarian-tissue preservation; the possibility is zero in case of bilateral oophorectomy and future fertility goals.
What Happens During an Ovarian Cystectomy Procedure?
The following steps take place during an ovarian cystectomy procedure:
- Anaesthesia: The patient is put under general anaesthesia so they sleep comfortably throughout the surgical process and don't feel any pain during the surgery.
- Access: The surgeon will make small incisions near the navel and lower abdomen (laparoscopy) or a lower abdominal incision (in case of an open surgery).
- Inspection: The surgeon examines the uterus, ovaries, tubes, and surrounding organs. This gives them a clear view of the cyst spread.
- Cyst removal: A careful incision on the ovary, with the cyst wall separated and removed intact whenever possible (often in a protective specimen bag).
- Ovary repair: The ovary is reconstructed with fine sutures to preserve function.
- Specimen analysis: A cyst was sent to pathology to confirm the diagnosis.
- Closure: Instruments removed, incisions closed with absorbable stitches or skin adhesive.
- Recovery room: Monitoring for a few hours; pain relief and anti-nausea medicines provided.
What is the Recovery Time After Ovarian Cyst Surgery?
The recovery time following ovarian cyst surgery changes based on the surgical approach used and the patient's condition. A minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure, involving small incisions, typically allows for a return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks, with most patients being discharged the same day as their operation.
In contrast, open abdominal surgery, or a laparotomy, requires a larger incision and involves a longer hospital stay of a few days, with a full recovery taking approximately 4-6 weeks. Patient-specific factors, such as the size and complexity of the cyst, overall health, and adherence to post-operative instructions, can also influence the recovery timeline.
Continue the follow-ups with the gynaecologist to understand the healing process better.
Get advanced ovarian cyst surgery (laparoscopic or open) in Gurgaon with experienced specialists
Why Choose Artemis Hospital for Ovarian Cyst Surgery?
Artemis Hospitals in Gurgaon has a team of experienced gynaecologists & minimally invasive surgeons. At the hospital, we have high volumes of laparoscopic cystectomies and complex pelvic surgery capacity.
Our specialists follow a fertility-conscious approach: ovary-sparing techniques wherever safe and coordination with fertility specialists if you’re planning pregnancy or IVF.
Artemis advanced operating theatres: 3D/4K laparoscopy, energy devices, and intra-op imaging support precise, tissue-preserving surgery.
We have Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) pathways for faster recovery, less pain, early mobilisation and discharge. Our patient-centric support is available for clear counselling, transparent estimates, and coordinated pre- and post-operative follow-ups.
How to Book an Appointment for Ovarian Cyst Surgery in Gurgaon?
Visit the official Artemis Hospital website and use the Book Appointment option to choose a gynaecologist and a slot. Call on +91 9800400498, the hospital’s central appointment desk, to schedule a consultation for evaluation and surgery planning.
Or walk into the Artemis Hospital OPD registration counter in Gurgaon with your previous reports. Bring previous ultrasound/MRI reports, blood tests, a current medication list, and any allergy information for your consultation.
Reviewed By Dr. Nidhi Rajotia
Unit Head - Obstetrics and gynaecology (Obs & Gynae)
Artemis Hospitals
