Myomectomy

Women who struggle with severe symptoms associated with uterine fibroids may be treated with a myomectomy. Feel confident that you are in capable hands with the skilled surgeons at Rock Hill GYN & OB, located in both Rock Hill and Fort Mill, SC. We are committed to your health and wellness.

What is a Myomectomy?

This surgical procedure removes uterine fibroids. Also referred to as leiomyomas, these are masses that grow in the uterus. Although noncancerous, they can cause prolonged menstrual bleeding and discomfort. If left untreated they can also negatively impact fertility. Myomectomy leaves the uterus intact so that it is still possible to bear children. Women who are experiencing fibroids but still want to have children may be recommended to undergo a myomectomy as opposed to a hysterectomy.

Although this surgery is highly effective, it is important to keep in mind fibroids that grow in the uterus can regrow. The younger you are the more likely it is that they will grow back. Women who are closer to menopause are more likely to have fibroids that shrink.

How is a Myomectomy Performed?

There is more than one approach to performing a myomectomy and it depends on the size, location, and number of fibroids present.

Abdominal Myomectomy

When fibroids are numerous, large, and deeply embedded in the uterus, an abdominal myomectomy is required. This is also referred to as an “open” myomectomy. During this major surgery, you will be placed under general anesthesia and an incision will be made in the lower abdomen. After the fibroids are removed, the incision is stitched together. Recovery generally takes about four to six weeks after spending a couple of nights in the hospital.

Laparoscopic Myomectomy

Certain fibroids can be removed laparoscopically, which is a less invasive approach than abdominal myomectomy. You will be placed under general anesthesia and four small incisions are made in the lower abdomen: one at the belly button, one at the bikini line, and one near each hip. Carbon dioxide is used to fill the abdomen and a laparoscope – a small telescope with a light at the end – is inserted through one of the incisions. Special instruments are used to remove the fibroids. The recovery is usually shorter, spending one to two nights in the hospital and recovering for two to four weeks at home. There are some rare instances where something abnormal is discovered and a laparoscopic myomectomy must become an abdominal myomectomy during the surgery.

Hysteroscopic Myomectomy

Submucosal fibroids are located in the endometrium, which is the inner lining of the uterus. These are the only type of fibroids that can be removed via hysteroscopic myomectomy. This is an outpatient procedure so you will not need to spend any of your recovery time in the hospital. This procedure is performed by going through the vagina and inserting special tools into the cervix to shave off the fibroids. It is common to experience cramping or light bleeding after a hysteroscopic myomectomy, but recovery takes between one to four days at home and there are no scars from incisions involved.

Schedule Your Appointment

Even if you are not experiencing any symptoms from fibroids, it is important to monitor them and be aware of any changes. When symptoms are severe, surgery may be necessary. Contact us to schedule an appointment to receive comprehensive care from a compassionate medical team.