Ovarian Cysts & Laparoscopic Removal: A Safe, Scar-Minimising Option
Many women in India experience abdominal discomfort, bloating, or irregular periods at some point in life. Often, the reason behind these symptoms is something called an ovarian cyst. While most ovarian cysts are harmless and go away on their own, some need medical attention — and in a few cases, surgical removal.
Thanks to advances in healthcare, laparoscopic surgery now offers a safer and less invasive way to treat ovarian cysts, especially when medication isn’t enough. If you or someone you know has been advised surgery for ovarian cysts, this blog from Dr Namrata Gilitwala, laparoscopic specialist at Zen Hospital — one of the best laparoscopic hospitals in Surat — will help you understand your options.
What Are Ovarian Cysts?
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that develop on or inside the ovaries. Most cysts form during the menstrual cycle and disappear without treatment. These are called functional cysts. But in some cases, cysts can grow large, rupture, twist the ovary (torsion), or cause pain and other issues.
Common types include:
● Dermoid cysts — can contain hair, fat or tissue
● Endometriomas — related to endometriosis
● Cystadenomas — filled with watery or mucous material
Many women don’t even realise they have cysts unless they get an ultrasound for some other reason. However, you need to see a gynaecologist if a cyst causes pain, bloating, or menstrual irregularities.
When Is Surgery Needed?
Not every cyst needs surgery. Doctors usually monitor small, harmless cysts with regular scans. But surgery may be required if:
● The cyst is large (typically more than 5–10 cm)
● It’s growing quickly
● It doesn’t go away after 2–3 menstrual cycles
● It causes pain, bleeding, or pressure on the bladder/bowel
● There’s suspicion of cancer (especially in post-menopausal women)
Earlier, doctors used to remove such cysts through open abdominal surgery, which involved a large incision and a longer recovery. But now, laparoscopic surgery is the preferred method.
What Is Laparoscopic Removal?
Laparoscopic surgery, often called “keyhole surgery,” involves making 2–4 tiny cuts in the abdomen. Through one of these cuts, the surgeon inserts a small camera (laparoscope) that displays images on a screen. Surgical tools are passed through the other cuts to remove the cyst.
The procedure is at one of the best laparoscopic hospitals in Surat, usually done under general anaesthesia and takes around 30–60 minutes, depending on the size and location of the cyst.
Why Laparoscopy Is a Better Option
For women, especially who are balancing home, work, and caregiving duties altogether, laparoscopic removal offers many advantages:
- Minimal Scarring
Small incisions mean less scarring. Most women go home with just 2–3 tiny marks near the belly button and lower abdomen — often hidden under a saree or salwar waistband. - Faster Recovery
You can usually return home the same day or the next, and get back to normal activities within a week. Compare that to open surgery, where recovery may take 3–4 weeks. - Less Pain and Discomfort
Because the cuts are small, post-surgical pain is much lower. Most women manage with mild painkillers for a couple of days. - Lower Risk of Infection
Smaller wounds heal faster and are less prone to infection. This is especially helpful in our humid Indian climate. - Preserves Fertility
Laparoscopy allows the surgeon to remove just the cyst while keeping the ovary intact, which is crucial for women planning to have children.
Before and After the Procedure
Before surgery, your doctor may ask for:
● Blood tests
● Ultrasound or MRI
● Pregnancy test
You’ll need to fast for a few hours before surgery. After the procedure, you might feel mild bloating or shoulder pain (due to the gas used to inflate the abdomen), but it usually goes away in a day.
At Zen Hospital, one of the best laparoscopic hospitals in Surat, our doctors will share instructions to help you recover faster, like:
● Avoid heavy lifting for a few days
● Take prescribed medicines on time
● Watch out for signs of infection (fever, unusual discharge)
Is Laparoscopy Safe?
Yes, laparoscopic cyst removal is very safe in the hands of an experienced gynaecologist and if conducted at one of the best laparoscopic hospitals in Surat. Like any surgery, it does carry small risks such as bleeding or injury to nearby organs, but these are rare.
In Conclusion
Ovarian cysts can be worrying, but modern treatments have made managing them much easier. Laparoscopic removal offers a scar-minimising, safe, and fertility-friendly solution. If your doctor has recommended surgery, ask whether laparoscopy is right for you.
Most importantly, don’t delay treatment out of fear. Talk openly with our gynaecologist at Zen Hospital — one of the best laparoscopic hospitals in Surat, ask your doubts, and take an informed decision. With the right care, you can heal quickly and get back to living your life, pain-free.
