Ovarian Cysts Removal Specialist Q&A

Yes, stitches are needed after a cyst removal in order to close the wound and prevent infection. Typically, the surgeon will close the area with stitches that dissolve over time, which eliminates the need to have them removed at a later date. Caring for the incision is critical for a proper and expeditious recovery; it should be kept as clean as possible. One of the most important ways to keep the incision site clean is to wipe from front to back after using the washroom, which helps to prevent bacteria and fecal particles from infecting the area of the incision.

There are different types of ovarian cysts. Each has unique causes and characteristics. The size of an ovarian cyst can also vary depending on the type of cyst; the two main types of ovarian cysts are:

• Functional Ovarian Cysts: These are the most common type of ovarian cyst and are typically harmless and short-lived.
• Pathological Cysts: These cysts grow in the ovaries; they may be benign (harmless) or malignant (cancerous).
 
Size is one of the factors that determine whether a cyst needs to be removed with surgery. Generally, surgery is not recommended for ovarian cysts unless they are larger than 5 to 6 centimeters (about 2 to 2.4 inches) in size. However, this guideline can vary. For example, a simple cyst may be left alone until it is 10 cm (4 inches) in size, but cancerous cysts may be removed when they are much smaller in order to prevent growth and proliferation.

The time it takes to recover from ovarian cyst removal is different in every situation and depends on several factors, including:

– The size of the cyst
– The type of cyst
– The severity of the cyst
– How long the cyst has been present
– The patient’s overall health
– The presence of any underlying conditions
– The patient’s lifestyle

Ovarian cyst removal is major surgery and may require multiple nights of recovery in a supervised medical setting, such as a hospital, depending on the type of procedure performed. After a laparotomy, it usually takes 12 weeks to fully recover, with stringent restrictions on physical activity and when one can return to normal activities, including work. After a laparoscopic ovarian cyst removal, it typically takes 8 to 12 weeks to make a full recovery, and patients can return to their normal, everyday activities sooner, oftentimes within a few days. However, strenuous physical activities must be avoided for four to six weeks following laparoscopic surgery. If you experience any of the following signs or symptoms after ovarian cyst removal, contact your physician right away:

– High fever (over 100.4ºF)
– Heavy bleeding (using a pad each hour)
– Severe pain in the pelvic area
– Heavy discharge and bad odor
– Frequent nausea and vomiting
– Breathing difficulties
– Chest pains
– Swelling, pain, or redness in the legs
 
Call us today to book an appointment with our ovarian cyst removal specialist, or visit our clinic conveniently located at 911 Country Club Rd. Suite 222, Eugene, OR 97401. We look forward to serving you! We serve patients from Eugene OR, Creswell OR, Cottage Grove OR, Springfield OR, Coburg OR, Lowell OR, and Junction City OR.