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Ovarian cyst treatment
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops on or inside an ovary. These cysts are quite common and, in most cases, don’t cause any noticeable symptoms. They often resolve on their own without the need for treatment. However, some cysts can grow larger, cause discomfort, or lead to complications if they don’t disappear naturally.
If you have an ovarian cyst that doesn’t resolve on its own, grows larger, or causes pain, your doctor may recommend removal through a procedure known as ovarian cystectomy.
Ovarian cysts are often symptom-free and may disappear naturally. However, if a cyst ruptures, becomes very large, or twists, it can lead to:
- Pelvic pain (which may be dull or sharp)
- Pain during intercourse
- A frequent urge to urinate
- Heavy, irregular, or lighter-than-normal periods
Diagnosing ovarian cysts
Our gynaecologists aim to provide a comprehensive service where you leave your appointment with a diagnosis and know your next steps. When you come in for your appointment, your gynaecologist will take a detailed medical history and ask you questions about your symptoms, including when they started, if they have been getting worse and whether they’re new or recurring. They will then conduct a physical examination and run an ultrasound scan, which will confirm your diagnosis.
If you require surgical treatment, we offer two different options:
Laparoscopic cystectomy: A minimally-invasive procedure where the surgeon makes small incisions and uses a tiny camera to guide the removal of the cyst through one of the small cuts.
Open cystectomy (laparotomy):If the cyst is large or suspected to be cancerous, the surgeon will make a larger incision in your abdomen to remove it.
If you’re experiencing any ovarian symptoms or are concerned you may have ovarian cysts, you can book an appointment with one of our experienced gynaecologists for a consultation.
Gynaecologists who see patients for ovarian cysts:
How Much Does Private Ovarian Cyst Removal Surgery Cost?
£4,720
Private Ovarian Cyst Removal (Cystectomy) costs £4,720 at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital.
Hospital Fee Guaranteed. The price shown includes all costs associated with your treatment, from admission to discharge, but doesn’t include surgeon or anaesthetist fee.
Our hospital fee is guaranteed at the price quoted and valid for one month from the date issued, subject to pre-assessment.
How to pay for your treatment
If you’re… paying for yourself
Did you know you don’t need private medical insurance to come to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital? As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, outstanding quality health care at times to suit you.
For scans and tests, as well as to see most consultants, you’ll still need to be referred by a medical professional like your GP, but as a self-pay patient, the process is more straightforward. You won’t need authorisation from an insurance provider, and you’ll have greater choice of consultant and appointment times.
If you’re… insured
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is approved by all major medical insurance companies. If you have a personal private health insurance policy, or your company provide it for you, you can use it to pay for your care from your initial consultation through to treatment, surgery and aftercare such as physiotherapy. Not all private health insurance plans cover the same things. It’s very important to check exactly what you are covered for with your insurance provider.
FAQs About Ovarian Cyst Removal
Ovarian cysts often cause no symptoms and can go away on their own. However, if a cyst ruptures, becomes very large or twists, it can cause pelvic pain (dull or sharp), pain during sex, frequent urination, and changes to your periods. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, book an appointment with one of our gynaecologists. They will take a detailed history, perform a physical examination and carry out an ultrasound to confirm your diagnosis.
The scan will show the location and size of your cyst. Depending on its type, your gynaecologist may recommend monitoring it with follow-up ultrasounds and providing medication to manage your symptoms. If the cyst is large, causing significant symptoms, or appears potentially cancerous, further tests may be required, such as blood tests, and your doctor may recommend an ovarian cystectomy.
In preparation for surgery, you’ll undergo pre-operative tests including an MRSA test and receive antibacterial soap and lotions to use beforehand. You should try to eat healthily and stop smoking in the lead-up. Inform your gynaecologist if you take blood thinners or NSAIDs, as you may need to stop or adjust your intake. On the day of surgery, fast for six hours and stop drinking water four hours before. Wear loose clothing and bring personal items including any medications, toiletries and a phone charger. Once admitted, a nurse will check your vital signs and go through your medical history. Your doctor will review the procedure with you again before asking for your consent.
Most ovarian cystectomies are performed laparoscopically as day-case surgery under general anaesthetic. A small incision is made near your belly button to insert a laparoscope, and additional small cuts are used for surgical instruments. Your abdomen is inflated with carbon dioxide for visibility. If open surgery is needed, a larger incision is made. The cyst is removed, the gas is released, and the incisions are closed with stitches or glue. A protective bandage is applied before you are moved to recovery.
You’ll be monitored as you wake from anaesthesia. After laparoscopic surgery, you may go home within a few hours, but someone must collect you. If you had open surgery, expect an overnight stay. At home, you can shower the next day and gently pat your incisions dry. If dissolvable stitches were used, they will disappear naturally. Most laparoscopic patients need one to three weeks off work, while open surgery may require six to eight weeks of recovery. It’s important to rest, gradually increase activity, and have some help at home for the first week.
Medically reviewed by Mr Emeka Okaro - MBBS FRCOG on 17/01/2024