What is a myomectomy?

A myomectomy is a surgery that removes fibroids from your uterus. Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths made of muscle and tissue. They’re common and can grow in different areas of the uterus. Some are tiny, while others can grow much larger.

Unlike a hysterectomy—which removes your entire uterus—a myomectomy only removes the fibroids. Your uterus stays in place, so you may still be able to get pregnant after the procedure. It’s often a good option for people who want to treat fibroid symptoms but still hope to have children in the future.

There are different types of myomectomy surgeries. Your doctor will recommend the best approach based on where the fibroids are, how many there are, and how big they are.

women on the couch with her daughter researching what is a myoectomy surgery

Why might I need myomectomy surgery?

A myomectomy may be suggested by your doctor if you have uterine fibroids causing issues such as:

  • Pelvic discomfort
  • Irregular bleeding or bleeding between periods
  • Heavy menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia)
  • Trouble emptying your bladder
  • Infertility concerns related to fibroids

Myomectomy can also be a good choice if you're hoping to get pregnant in the future. The surgery removes the fibroids but keeps your uterus intact, which can help improve your chances of a healthy pregnancy.

Your doctor will help determine if myomectomy is the right option based on the size, location and number of fibroids, as well as your overall health and fertility goals.

How to prepare for myomectomy surgery

Your healthcare provider will give you all the instructions you need to prepare for surgery. This includes when to stop eating and drinking and whether you need to stop taking certain medications.

Your provider will also explain what to expect after surgery, including how long you’ll need to stay in the hospital or surgical center and any lifestyle changes you may need to make during recovery.

Be sure to ask your provider any questions you have before surgery, so you feel fully prepared and know what to expect.

The myomectomy procedure

A myomectomy can be performed in different ways. Depending on the size, number and location of your fibroids, you may have the option of an abdominal, laparoscopic or hysteroscopic myomectomy. Your doctor will explain the details of the process based on the type of procedure you're having. Here’s what you can expect before, during and after the surgery.

Before the procedure

You’ll arrive at the hospital at the time given to you by your surgical team. Once you are checked in, you’ll be taken back to the surgery area, where you’ll receive anesthesia.

Abdominal, robotic and laparoscopic myomectomies usually involve general anesthesia, which will make you unconscious during the surgery. Hysteroscopic myomectomies may involve general anesthesia or sedation, which puts you to sleep but doesn’t require breathing assistance as general anesthesia does.

What are the risks of a myomectomy?

Like any surgery, myomectomy carries some risks, though they are rare. Potential risks include:

  • Infection
  • Excessive bleeding
  • Blood clots
  • Damage to nearby organs
  • Scar tissue that could block the fallopian tubes or cause fertility issues
  • New fibroids that may require another removal procedure

Myomectomy recovery

Recovery time can vary depending on the type of myomectomy procedure you had and whether any complications arise. It's normal to experience some pain during the first few days after surgery, but your doctor will provide medication to help manage it. They may also encourage you to move your legs or take short walks to reduce the risk of blood clots.

The full recovery time will depend on the procedure you had:

  • Abdominal myomectomy: 4 to 6 weeks
  • Laparoscopic and robotic myomectomies: 2 to 3 weeks
  • Hysteroscopic myomectomy: 1 to 2 days

If you had an abdominal, laparoscopic or robotic myomectomy, you may need to take several weeks off work. Your doctor will guide you on when it’s safe to return to normal activities and how to best support your healing process.

Your doctor will also schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and ensure you’re healing properly. It’s important to follow their instructions closely to help make your recovery as smooth and quick as possible.

doctor discussing Myoectomy recovery with a patient

Frequently asked questions

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