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Last Updated on November 27, 2025 by Bilal Hasdemir
Uterine fibroids affect up to 80% of women by age 50. For many, surgical intervention is a necessary step towards relief. At Liv Hospital, we know how important it is to be informed about your options.
We give you a detailed look at the surgical procedures for fibroid treatment. We highlight their unique benefits and recovery paths. Our aim is to give you the knowledge to make a confident decision about your care.
With a range of advanced procedures, each patient’s journey is unique. Our team is committed to providing personalized care and support throughout your treatment.
Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are non-cancerous tumors in the uterus. They affect women’s health in different ways. These growths are common in women of childbearing age. Their impact can be mild or severe, affecting daily life.
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths in or around the uterus. They can be different sizes, numbers, and locations. The exact cause is not known, but genetics, hormones, and environment play roles.
Many women develop uterine fibroids during their reproductive years. The risk is higher in some groups. Age, family history, and ethnicity can influence the risk.
Some women with uterine fibroids don’t have symptoms. But, symptoms like heavy bleeding, long periods, pelvic pain, and fertility issues can occur. The severity and type of symptoms vary.
“The symptoms can be quite debilitating, affecting not just physical health but also emotional well-being,” as noted by healthcare professionals. The decision to seek treatment depends on symptom severity and daily life impact.
Not all uterine fibroids need surgery. But, certain situations may require it. The size, number, and location of fibroids, along with symptom severity, determine surgery need.
Choosing surgery is a big decision. It’s based on a detailed evaluation of benefits and risks. Surgical options include myomectomy, hysterectomy, and minimally invasive methods.
Choosing the right surgery for fibroids needs careful thought. The type of surgery depends on many factors. These include the size, number, and location of the fibroids.
Many things influence the choice of surgery for fibroids. Fibroid characteristics like size and location are key. Also, the patient’s health, symptoms, and fertility plans are important.
When we look at surgical options, we consider:
The size, number, and location of fibroids affect surgery choices. Large fibroids might need open surgery. Smaller ones could be removed laparoscopically or hysteroscopically.
| Fibroid Characteristic | Surgical Considerations |
|---|---|
| Size | Large fibroids may require open surgery, while smaller ones can be removed laparoscopically or hysteroscopically. |
| Number | Multiple fibroids may complicate surgery, potentially requiring a more invasive approach. |
| Location | Fibroids located near vital structures may require more precise surgical techniques. |
When choosing surgery for fibroids, we weigh effectiveness against recovery and fertility. New techniques, like laparoscopic hysterectomy surgery, offer better results and quicker recovery.
We help patients find the best surgery for their needs. We make sure it fits their health goals and personal situation.
The surgical removal of fibroids via abdominal myomectomy is a well-established technique. It has been used for many years to treat symptomatic uterine fibroids. This traditional approach involves making an incision in the abdomen to access the uterus and remove the fibroids.
Abdominal myomectomy is performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision, typically in a horizontal direction (bikini line). The exact location and size can vary depending on the size and number of fibroids. The uterus is then accessed, and the fibroids are carefully removed. The uterine wall is repaired, and the abdominal incision is closed.
Surgical Steps:
Women with large or multiple fibroids that are causing significant symptoms are ideal candidates. This procedure is beneficial for those who wish to preserve their uterus. It’s also good for those who plan to have children in the future.
The benefits of abdominal myomectomy include removing symptomatic fibroids and improving fertility. It also preserves the uterus. But, as with any surgery, there are possible complications. These include infection, bleeding, and adhesions.
Potential Complications:
| Complication | Description | Management |
|---|---|---|
| Infection | Bacterial infection at the surgical site | Antibiotics |
| Bleeding | Excessive bleeding during or after surgery | Blood transfusion, surgical intervention |
| Adhesions | Formation of scar tissue | Surgical adhesiolysis |
Recovery from abdominal myomectomy typically takes several weeks. Patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities during this period. Pain management is key in the initial stages of recovery.
Post-operative care includes follow-up appointments to monitor healing and remove sutures or staples. Patients are also advised on when to resume normal activities, including work and exercise.
Many patients prefer minimally invasive surgery, and laparoscopic myomectomy is a top choice for removing fibroids. This method uses small incisions in the abdomen. It’s a less invasive option compared to traditional open surgery.
Laparoscopic myomectomy is done under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes small incisions, about 0.5 to 1 cm long. They use special tools and a laparoscope to see the uterus and fibroids on a monitor.
The procedure’s key steps include:
Laparoscopic myomectomy has many benefits over traditional surgery. These include:
These advantages make laparoscopic myomectomy an attractive option for women seeking to minimize their recovery time and maximize their outcomes.
Laparoscopic myomectomy is not for everyone. The decision to have this surgery depends on several factors. These include the size, number, and location of the fibroids, as well as the patient’s overall health and surgical history.
The recovery after laparoscopic myomectomy is usually quicker than open surgery. Most women can get back to their normal activities in a few weeks. But, full recovery may take longer. Postoperative care includes managing pain, monitoring for complications, and follow-up appointments.
By choosing laparoscopic myomectomy, patients can benefit from a minimally invasive approach. This reduces recovery time and scarring, making it a popular choice for fibroid removal.
Women with submucosal fibroids can find relief with hysteroscopic myomectomy. This method is a no-incision solution. It treats fibroids inside the uterus, easing symptoms and promoting quick healing.
This procedure uses a hysteroscope, a thin device that goes through the vagina and cervix. It lets us see the fibroid on a screen and remove it without any cuts. The whole thing is done under general anesthesia or sedation to keep you comfortable.
Submucosal fibroids, which grow into the uterine cavity, are perfect for this treatment. They can lead to heavy bleeding and long periods. Fibroids up to 5 cm can usually be removed this way.
Research shows hysteroscopic myomectomy works well for submucosal fibroids. It greatly reduces bleeding and can help with fertility. Most women feel better quickly, often returning to their daily routines in a few days.
This method is less invasive, leading to less pain and faster healing. You can go home the same day and get back to normal in a week. Afterward, you’ll need to watch for infection signs and manage any pain with medicine.
Hysterectomy is a big surgery that removes the uterus. It can stop fibroid symptoms for good. This surgery is a strong treatment for uterine fibroids, making sure they don’t come back.
There are many types of hysterectomy surgeries. Each one has its own reasons and benefits. The main types are:
The right surgery depends on many things. These include the size and place of the fibroids, the patient’s health, and the surgeon’s advice.
Hysterectomy is often suggested for women with big or many fibroids. This is true if they have bad symptoms like a lot of bleeding, pain, or pressure on other organs. It’s also considered for women who have had all their children and want a lasting fix.
| Condition | Hysterectomy Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Large or multiple fibroids | Highly recommended |
| Severe symptoms | Recommended |
| Completed childbearing | Often recommended |
Hysterectomy gets rid of fibroid symptoms for good. Women often say their life gets better without the heavy bleeding and pain from fibroids.
After a hysterectomy, women won’t have periods anymore. They also won’t get uterine cancer. But, this surgery is forever and ends a woman’s chance to have more children.
Recovering from a hysterectomy takes time. Women might feel pain, tiredness, and can’t do much for weeks.
Emotionally, it’s different for everyone. Some feel better without their symptoms. Others might miss their uterus and the end of their childbearing years.
We help a lot with the recovery. We make sure our patients get the care and support they need for both the body and mind.
UFE, or Uterine Fibroid Embolization, is a non-surgical way to treat uterine fibroids. It offers relief from symptoms without major surgery. This option is great for women who want to avoid surgery’s risks and long recovery times.
An interventional radiologist performs UFE. They use imaging to guide the procedure. The radiologist inserts a small catheter into the leg’s femoral artery to reach the uterine arteries.
Then, they release embolic agents to block the fibroids’ blood supply. This causes the fibroids to shrink over time.
The procedure is done under local anesthesia and sedation. Patients usually feel only mild discomfort. It takes about an hour or a bit longer.
Being able to go home the same day is a big plus for many.
UFE is very effective in reducing symptoms like heavy bleeding and pelvic pain. It cuts off the fibroids’ blood supply, causing them to shrink. This leads to long-term relief from symptoms.
While UFE is minimally invasive, some discomfort is common after. Recovery usually takes a few days to a week. Pain can be managed with medication.
Mild side effects like fatigue or nausea may occur. Serious complications are rare, making UFE a safe option for many.
Radiofrequency ablation is a new way to treat uterine fibroids. It’s a minimally invasive method that uses thermal energy. This technology helps reduce symptoms significantly.
This method heats and destroys fibroid tissue using thermal energy. A special device sends radiofrequency waves into the fibroid. These waves create heat that kills the fibroid cells.
“The precision of radiofrequency ablation allows for targeted treatment, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue,” says a leading expert in gynecological oncology.
There are two main ways to do radiofrequency ablation for fibroids: laparoscopic and transcervical. The laparoscopic method uses small abdominal incisions. The transcervical method goes through the cervix, avoiding abdominal cuts.
Laparoscopic Radiofrequency Ablation is better for hard-to-reach fibroids. Transcervical radiofrequency ablation is less invasive, leading to quicker recovery.
Many studies show radiofrequency ablation works well for fibroids. They show big reductions in fibroid size and symptoms. A study in the Journal of Gynecological Surgery found it greatly improved women’s quality of life.
Radiofrequency ablation is less invasive than traditional surgery. This means shorter recovery times and less pain. “The ability to treat fibroids without major surgery has been a game-changer for many of my patients,”
Overall, radiofrequency ablation is a big step forward in treating fibroids. It offers a quick, effective, and minimally invasive option with high patient satisfaction.
MRI-guided focused ultrasound is a new way to treat uterine fibroids. It uses sound waves to target and treat fibroids. This method helps reduce symptoms and fibroid size.
This technology works by using sound waves to target fibroids. MRI helps guide these waves. The waves heat the fibroid, killing cells and shrinking it.
The treatment is different from surgery. Patients stay awake and it takes 3 to 4 hours. MRI guidance makes the treatment safe and accurate.
Studies show MRI-guided focused ultrasound works well. Most patients see their fibroids shrink and feel better. Their quality of life improves.
| Symptom | Improvement Rate |
|---|---|
| Heavy Bleeding | 80% |
| Pelvic Pain | 75% |
| Urinary Frequency | 70% |
One big plus is how quickly patients recover. Most can go back to normal in a day or two. This is great for those with busy lives.
We think MRI-guided focused ultrasound is a great option for treating uterine fibroids. It offers relief and reduces fibroids with little downtime. It’s a valuable choice for managing fibroids.
The recovery time for fibroid treatments can vary a lot. It’s important to know these differences. This helps you set realistic goals and make the best choice for your care.
The length of your hospital stay depends on the treatment. For example, laparoscopic myomectomy might only need a few hours or a night. But, more complex surgeries like abdominal myomectomy could keep you in the hospital for 1 to 3 days. On the other hand, Uterine Fibroid Embolization (UFE) and MRI-Guided Focused Ultrasound usually let you go home the same day.
Managing pain is key to recovery. Each procedure has its own pain needs:
How long it takes to get back to normal varies by procedure:
Knowing these recovery times helps you plan. It makes it easier to prepare for your treatment and post-procedure care.
Fibroid surgery can affect fertility differently. For women who can have kids, keeping fertility is key when choosing surgery for fibroids.
Each fibroid surgery has its own effect on fertility. Myomectomy helps keep fertility, but hysterectomy means no more babies. Experts say the surgery choice greatly affects a woman’s chance to get pregnant later.
The type of myomectomy matters too. It can be done through the belly, laparoscopically, or through the cervix. The choice depends on the fibroids’ size, number, and where they are.
After myomectomy, waiting a bit before trying to get pregnant is wise. This lets the uterus heal and lowers pregnancy risks. The wait time varies based on surgery type and patient health.
Doctors usually say wait 3 to 6 months before trying to conceive. This ensures the uterus is ready for pregnancy.
Myomectomy can lead to successful pregnancies. Success depends on fibroid size and location, and the patient’s health.
Many women can get pregnant and have healthy babies after myomectomy. But, success chances can be affected by age and fertility issues.
Knowing how fibroid surgery affects fertility helps women choose the right treatment. This way, they can plan for future pregnancies.
We’ve looked at different ways to remove fibroids surgically. Each method has its own good points, risks, and how you’ll feel after. Knowing about these options helps patients make a smart choice for their treatment.
Think about your own situation, the pros and cons of each surgery, and what you prefer. It’s a good idea to talk to a doctor to find the best treatment for you.
Choosing the right fibroid treatment means looking at how well it works, possible problems, and its effect on your ability to have children. This way, you pick a treatment that fits your health goals and values.
In the end, making a smart choice about fibroid treatment lets you control your health. It means you get the care that’s best for you.
Common surgical options include abdominal myomectomy and laparoscopic myomectomy. Hysteroscopic myomectomy and hysterectomy are also available. We also offer uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) and radiofrequency ablation as minimally invasive alternatives.
Choosing the right procedure depends on several factors. These include the size, number, and location of your fibroids. Your overall health, symptoms, and future fertility plans also play a role. Discussing your situation with a healthcare provider is recommended to find the best approach.
A myomectomy removes fibroids while keeping the uterus. A hysterectomy removes the uterus entirely. Myomectomy is often chosen by those who want to keep their fertility. Hysterectomy is for those who have finished having children.
UFE cuts off the blood supply to fibroids, causing them to shrink. This is done through a small catheter in the uterine arteries. It delivers embolic agents to block the blood flow.
Minimally invasive surgery offers several benefits. These include smaller incisions, less pain, and shorter recovery times. It also reduces the risk of complications.
Recovery times vary by procedure. Patients can usually return to normal activities in a few weeks. This can be as short as a few days for some procedures or several weeks for others.
The impact on fertility depends on the procedure. Myomectomy and similar procedures aim to preserve fertility. Hysterectomy is a permanent solution. Discussing your fertility plans with a healthcare provider is important.
Yes, fibroids can recur after surgery if hormonal factors are not addressed. Regular follow-up appointments are recommended to monitor for recurrence.
Risks include bleeding, infection, adhesions, and damage to surrounding organs. We take precautions to minimize these risks and ensure a safe outcome.
Preparing for surgery involves following a healthcare provider’s instructions. This may include preoperative testing, stopping certain medications, and arranging for post-operative care and support.
