What is Fibroid Removal Surgery?
Fibroid removal surgery, also called myomectomy, is a surgical procedure to remove fibroids (non-cancerous growths) from the uterus while preserving the uterus. It helps women who suffer from heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure symptoms, or infertility due to fibroids.
While some women explore fibroid removal without surgery or natural remedies, surgery is often the most effective option for larger fibroids or severe symptoms.
Types of Fibroid Removal Surgery
Fibroid removal can be performed using different techniques depending on the size, number, and location of fibroids.
- Hysteroscopic Myomectomy: A minimally invasive technique where fibroids inside the uterine cavity are removed through the vagina using a hysteroscope.
- Laparoscopic Fibroid Removal (Keyhole Surgery): Small incisions are made in the abdomen to remove fibroids using a laparoscope. This offers quicker recovery and less scarring.
- Open Myomectomy (Laparotomy): Recommended for very large or multiple fibroids, involving a larger abdominal incision.
- Robotic-Assisted Myomectomy: Uses robotic technology for precision in complex cases.
1-3 Hours
Surgery Duration
General Anesthesia
Anesthesia Used
6-8 Weeks
Full Recovery Timeline
When is Fibroid Removal Recommended?
Fibroid removal, also known as myomectomy or fibroid surgery, is advised when uterine fibroids begin to cause serious health concerns that interfere with daily activities, fertility, or overall quality of life.
While many fibroids remain harmless and do not require treatment, surgery is considered when symptoms become persistent or complications arise.
Common Reasons Doctors Recommend Fibroid Surgery
Heavy or Prolonged Menstrual Bleeding
- Fibroids can enlarge the uterus and disrupt its normal function, leading to unusually heavy or long periods.
- Women may experience anemia, fatigue, or weakness due to blood loss. Surgery helps restore normal menstrual cycles and prevent long-term complications.
Pelvic Pain, Pressure, or Bloating
Infertility or Recurrent Miscarriages
- Fibroids that grow inside the uterine cavity can interfere with embryo implantation or disrupt pregnancy.
- Removal may improve chances of conception and support a healthier pregnancy.
Rapidly Growing or Large Fibroids
- If fibroids increase in size quickly, doctors may recommend removal to rule out rare complications and to prevent further symptoms.
- Large fibroids may also distort the uterus, causing visible abdominal enlargement.
Pregnancy Complications
- Fibroids can sometimes complicate pregnancy by affecting fetal growth, leading to preterm labor, or making delivery more difficult.
- In such cases, removal may be planned either before conception or after delivery.
How to Prepare for Fibroid Removal Surgery
Preparing well before surgery helps reduce risks, improves healing, and makes recovery smoother. Below are the key steps to follow:
Medical Evaluation and Tests
Before surgery, your doctor will order tests to ensure you're ready for the procedure.
- Blood Tests: Check your blood count, clotting ability, and general health.
- Ultrasound Scan: Shows the size, number, and position of fibroids.
- MRI Scan (in some cases): Gives a more detailed picture when fibroids are large, multiple, or close to vital organs.
- Physical Exam: Helps the doctor assess your overall fitness for surgery.
Why this matters: These tests help the surgical team plan the safest approach for your specific case.
Lifestyle Adjustments Before Surgery
Certain habits can affect healing and anesthesia safety. Your doctor may recommend:
- Quit Smoking: Smoking slows down healing and increases infection risk. Try to stop at least 2-4 weeks before surgery.
- Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol can interfere with anesthesia and delay recovery.
- Stop Blood-Thinning Medicines: Drugs like aspirin, ibuprofen, or warfarin increase bleeding risk. Your doctor will guide you on when to stop them.
- Improve Diet and Hydration: Eating iron-rich foods (like leafy greens, beans, and lean meat) helps if fibroids caused heavy bleeding and anemia.
Preparing Your Home
Recovering is much easier when your home is ready before you return. A little preparation can help you rest well and focus on healing::
- Ask for Support: Arrange help from a family member or friend for the first few days. They can assist with meals, household chores, or childcare, so you don't have to worry.
- Stock Up on Essentials: Keep easy-to-heat meals, healthy snacks, and fluids ready.
- Create a Rest Area: Prepare a comfortable space with pillows, blankets, and easy access to water, medication, and your phone.
- Household Prep: Take care of laundry, bills, and errands before the surgery to reduce stress afterward.
The Day Before and Day of Surgery
Follow hospital instructions carefully to ensure safety:
- Fasting: Usually, no food or drinks (including water) for 6-8 hours before surgery.
- Shower with Antiseptic Soap: Reduces bacteria on the skin and lowers infection risk.
- Avoid Cosmetics and Products: Skip lotions, perfumes, nail polish, and makeup, as they interfere with monitoring equipment.
- Pack a Small Bag: Include loose clothing, toiletries, sanitary pads, and any personal items you may need during your hospital stay.
What Happens During Fibroid Removal Surgery?
Fibroid removal surgery, also called a myomectomy, is performed to take out fibroids while keeping the uterus intact. The exact steps depend on the type of myomectomy chosen - hysteroscopic, laparoscopic, robotic, or open surgery.
Preparation & Anesthesia
- Before surgery, your vitals are checked, and an IV line is placed.
- You will receive general anesthesia (you'll be asleep) or regional anesthesia (numbs the lower body) depending on the surgical approach.
- This ensures you stay comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.
Incision / Access Point
- Hysteroscopic myomectomy: No external cuts. A thin scope is inserted through the vagina and cervix into the uterus.
- Laparoscopic or robotic myomectomy: Small keyhole cuts are made in the abdomen to insert instruments.
- Open abdominal myomectomy: A larger incision is made in the lower abdomen (similar to a C-section cut).
Main Procedure - Removing the Fibroids
- The surgeon carefully locates and separates the fibroids from the surrounding uterine muscle.
- Special instruments are used to cut away the fibroid while preserving healthy uterine tissue.
- Depending on size and location, fibroids may be removed in pieces or whole.
Closure
- Once the fibroids are removed, the uterine wall is repaired and stitched to restore strength and reduce future risks such as uterine rupture during pregnancy.
- The abdominal incisions are also closed with sutures or surgical glue.
Recovery Room
- You are taken to the post-anesthesia recovery unit, where your heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing are monitored.
- Once stable, you are shifted to your hospital room.
Who Performs the Fibroid Removal Procedure?
Fibroid removal procedures are usually performed by gynecologists, especially those who specialize in gynecologic surgery. Here are the types of medical professionals who may be involved in your fibroid treatment and removal:
- Gynecologist
- Gynecologic Surgeon
- Reproductive Endocrinologist
- Interventional Radiologist
- Obstetrician-Gynecologist (Ob-Gyn)
- Minimally Invasive Surgeon
- Surgical Oncologist
What to Expect After Fibroid Removal Surgery
The recovery process after fibroid removal surgery (myomectomy) varies depending on the type of procedure performed, laparoscopic, hysteroscopic, or open surgery. Understanding the typical recovery timeline can help patients prepare both physically and emotionally.
First Few Days
- Common Symptoms: Mild to moderate pain, abdominal discomfort, bloating, and fatigue are normal. Some patients may also experience light vaginal spotting.
- Care Tips: Doctors usually prescribe pain relievers. Adequate rest, hydration, and a balanced diet support early healing. Gentle walking is encouraged to improve circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.
Weeks 2-4
- Mobility and Activity: Energy levels gradually improve. Patients who undergo minimally invasive (laparoscopic or hysteroscopic) procedures often return to desk jobs or light work within 2-3 weeks.
- Precautions: Strenuous activities, sexual intercourse, and heavy lifting should still be avoided during this phase to protect the surgical site.
Weeks 5-6
- Recovery Progress: Most patients feel significantly better. Daily routines and moderate physical activities can usually be resumed.
- Doctor's Guidance: A follow-up appointment may be scheduled around this time to check healing progress and address any concerns.
3-6 Months
- Full Recovery: Energy is restored, surgical scars fade, and symptoms such as heavy bleeding or pelvic pressure improve.
- Fertility Benefits: For women planning pregnancy, the uterus typically regains strength within this period, increasing the chances of healthy conception and pregnancy.
Benefits of Fibroid Removal Surgery
Fibroid removal surgery, also known as myomectomy, can bring significant relief and improve daily life for women who struggle with fibroid symptoms. The benefits go beyond physical health, often improving emotional well-being and long-term quality of life.
- Relief from Heavy Menstrual Bleeding and Pain: Fibroids often cause long, heavy, and painful periods. This can lead to anemia, weakness, and constant tiredness. Surgery removes the fibroids, helping restore a regular menstrual cycle. Many women feel relief from pain and enjoy lighter, more manageable periods.
- Improved Fertility and Chances of Pregnancy: Fibroids that grow inside the uterine cavity may interfere with implantation or cause recurrent miscarriages. By removing these fibroids, the uterus can function more normally, often improving fertility outcomes for women who want to conceive.
- Reduction in Pelvic Pressure and Bloating: Large or multiple fibroids may press on the bladder, bowel, or pelvic nerves, causing pressure, bloating, or frequent urination. After surgery, many women notice a lighter, more comfortable feeling in the pelvic area.
- Better Quality of Life and Restored Confidence: Living with fibroids can affect work, relationships, and self-esteem. Surgery often restores confidence by reducing disruptive symptoms, allowing women to return to daily activities, exercise, and social life without constant discomfort.
Risks of Fibroid Removal Surgery
Although myomectomy is generally safe, it is still a surgical procedure and carries certain risks. Being aware of possible complications helps women make informed decisions with their doctor.
- Risk of Bleeding or Infection: Fibroids have a rich blood supply, so bleeding is the most common complication during surgery. In rare cases, a blood transfusion may be needed. As with any surgery, there is also a small chance of infection, which is usually treated with antibiotics.
- Scar Tissue Formation (Adhesions): Scar tissue may form inside or outside the uterus after surgery. Adhesions can sometimes cause pelvic pain or, in rare cases, fertility problems if they block the fallopian tubes.
- Rare Damage to Surrounding Organs: During surgery, there is a small chance of accidental injury to nearby organs, such as the bladder, bowel, or ureters. This risk is low, especially in experienced hands.
Risk of Fibroid Recurrence
Myomectomy removes existing fibroids but does not prevent new ones from forming. Some women may develop new fibroids in the years after surgery, requiring ongoing monitoring.
Cost of Fibroid Removal Surgery in India
The fibroid removal surgery cost in India depends on the type of procedure, hospital facilities, and surgeon's expertise. On average, it ranges between Rs. 60,000 to Rs. 1,80,000.
To know accurate pricing for uterine fibroid removal, call our support team.
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