One of the most common uterine disorders in women, fibroids are usually benign but can cause serious problems such as pain, irregular bleeding, and fertility issues as they grow. Today, one of the modern methods preferred in the treatment of these problems is laparoscopic myomectomy (closed fibroid surgery). Performed using a laparoscopic technique, this surgery both increases patient comfort and significantly shortens the recovery period. Thanks to advanced surgical instruments, the uterus is preserved, scarring is minimal, and the patient can quickly return to daily life.
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What Is Laparoscopic Myomectomy?
Laparoscopic myomectomy, also known in medicine as closed fibroid surgery, is a modern surgical technique. This method aims to remove benign tumors called fibroids that develop in the uterus. Fibroids are masses that form in the muscle layer of the uterus and are commonly seen in women of reproductive age. In laparoscopic myomectomy, the operation is performed without making a large incision in the abdominal area; instead, a few small openings are made to insert a special camera and surgical instruments. This technique offers the patient less pain, a shorter recovery period, and a lower risk of complications.
Today, laparoscopic myomectomy is one of the most preferred methods as an alternative to open surgery. With this technique, the uterus is preserved, and the woman’s fertility potential remains intact. Therefore, it is a highly advantageous treatment option, especially for women who wish to have children.
Why Is Laparoscopic Myomectomy Performed?
Laparoscopic myomectomy is preferred in cases where fibroids cause physical or hormonal problems in women. In some cases, fibroids may progress without showing any symptoms; however, when they grow larger or deform the uterine cavity, they can lead to serious complaints.
Symptoms such as excessive menstrual bleeding, pain in the groin area, abdominal swelling, frequent urination, constipation, pain during sexual intercourse, and infertility may occur. When doctors determine that these complaints are caused by fibroids and medication does not provide results, laparoscopic myomectomy is performed. In addition, rapidly growing fibroids, those suspected of becoming cancerous, or fibroids affecting the uterine wall in women planning pregnancy also require surgical intervention. Surgery performed using the laparoscopic method not only resolves these problems but also provides better aesthetic results.
What Should Be Considered Before and After Laparoscopic Myomectomy?
Before laparoscopic myomectomy, the patient’s overall health condition should be thoroughly evaluated. During the preoperative period, the doctor may request blood tests, ultrasound, or MRI imaging. These tests provide information about the size, number, and location of the fibroids. It is recommended that the patient avoid using blood-thinning medications, quit smoking, and make necessary dietary adjustments before the operation.
On the day of surgery, the patient is usually operated on under general anesthesia. During the first few days after surgery, mild abdominal pain, gas, or bloating may occur. These are normal and temporary conditions. The medications prescribed by the doctor should be taken regularly, and heavy exercise or sexual intercourse should be avoided in the first days. Generally, the patient can return to normal daily activities within 1–2 weeks.
The most important point in the postoperative period is to keep the incision areas clean and to be cautious against the risk of infection. Attending follow-up appointments on time is also crucial for ensuring a healthy recovery process.
How Is Laparoscopic Myomectomy Performed?
Laparoscopic myomectomy is performed using the laparoscopic surgical technique. In this method, the surgeon makes several small incisions in the navel and lower abdominal area. One of these incisions is used to insert a laparoscope, a high-resolution camera. Thanks to the camera, the surgeon can view the uterus and surrounding tissues in detail on a screen.
Through the other small incisions, special surgical instruments are inserted, and the fibroids are carefully removed. Depending on the size and location of the fibroid, it may sometimes be divided into smaller pieces before being extracted. Throughout the entire procedure, the uterus is preserved, and tissue loss is kept to a minimum.
The surgery usually lasts between 1 and 2 hours. Depending on the patient’s overall condition, discharge may occur the same day or the following day.
Compared to open surgery, this technique involves significantly less pain, bleeding, and recovery time. In addition, since no large incision is made in the abdomen, it is highly preferred by patients for its aesthetic advantages.
What Are the Advantages of Laparoscopic Myomectomy?
The greatest advantage of laparoscopic myomectomy is that it is a minimally invasive technique — meaning maximum benefit is achieved with minimal harm to the body. Thanks to this method, patients return to their daily lives much faster compared to open surgery. Pain and bleeding are reduced, hospital stays are shorter, and the risk of infection is minimized.
Additionally, in surgeries performed using this technique, the uterine tissue is preserved, allowing fertility to be maintained. Women can often plan pregnancy within a short time after surgery. From an aesthetic standpoint, this method offers a major advantage, as it is completed with nearly invisible small incisions on the skin.
Another important advantage is the low risk of postoperative adhesions, which reduces the likelihood of future abdominal pain or infertility. With the use of modern surgical equipment and high-resolution imaging systems, the surgeon can easily detect and remove even the smallest fibroids.
Laparoscopic myomectomy is a method that enhances both patient comfort and surgical success rates. Today, many specialist gynecologists recommend this technique as the first-choice treatment for suitable patients.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laparoscopic Myomectomy
The surgery usually lasts between 1 and 2 hours, depending on the number and size of the fibroids Yes, as long as the uterus is not completely removed, new fibroids may develop. However, they can be detected and treated early through regular check-ups. Depending on the patient’s overall condition, most people can return to work within 7 to 10 days. Yes, this surgery preserves fertility. In suitable cases, the chances of natural conception after the procedure are quite high. Sexual intercourse can generally be resumed 4 to 6 weeks after surgery, with the doctor’s approval. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, meaning the patient remains fully asleep during the operation. No, only small, millimeter-sized marks remain due to the tiny incisions, and they usually fade completely over time. Mild abdominal pain and gas discomfort may occur, but these symptoms typically resolve quickly and can be managed with painkillers. No, patients with very large or multiple fibroids may be better suited for open surgery. The appropriate method is determined by the doctor. Light walking can usually begin about 3–4 weeks after the operation, but more intense exercise should only be resumed with the doctor’s approval.How long does a laparoscopic myomectomy take?
Can fibroids recur after laparoscopic myomectomy?
When can one return to work after laparoscopic myomectomy?
Is it possible to get pregnant after laparoscopic myomectomy?
When can sexual activity be resumed after laparoscopic myomectomy?
What type of anesthesia is used in laparoscopic myomectomy?
Will there be visible scars after laparoscopic myomectomy?
Is there pain after laparoscopic myomectomy?
Can every patient undergo laparoscopic myomectomy?
Can exercise be done after laparoscopic myomectomy?
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