Ovary Removal Surgery

The ovaries are essential female reproductive glands located on each side of the uterus. They are responsible for producing eggs (ova) and secreting hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone, which regulate your menstrual cycle.

Additionally, the ovaries play a crucial role in fertility, releasing an egg each month during ovulation, and significantly influence other bodily functions, including bone health, breast development, and overall hormonal balance.

Proper ovarian function is vital for reproductive health and overall well-being.

Reasons for ovary removal surgery

The most common reason for ovary removal surgery is to treat diseases, such as ovarian cysts (benign, non-cancerous growths), endometriosis (endometrial tissue that normally lines the inside of the uterus grows outside the uterus), ovarian torsion (the ovary twists on its ligamentous supports, resulting in blood obstruction), and pelvic inflammatory disease (infection of the ovary or the area around it).

Ovary removal surgery can also be a form of preventative surgery for individuals at high risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer, such as those with BRCA gene mutations (genetic abnormalities that may lead to the development of breast or ovarian cancer).

Types of ovary removal surgeries

An ovary removal surgery is also known as oophorectomy. There are many types of oophorectomies.

Undergoing ovary removal surgery can feel daunting, especially if you are still considering having children or are worried about menopause and cancer.

Discuss your concerns with your doctor to understand the procedure and what to expect afterward. This conversation can help alleviate your worries and provide clarity on matters related to fertility, cancer risk, surgical risks, and emotional support.

Benefits and potential risks of an oophorectomy

An ovary removal surgery is beneficial to treat or minimise disease symptoms and help in preventing ovarian cancer in certain high-risk individuals, especially those with a family history of ovarian cancer.

Like any other surgery, the potential risks of an ovary removal surgery include surgical site infection, injury or damage to surrounding structures, e.g. bladder, bowel, or blood vessels, bleeding, allergic reaction to anaesthesia and the equipment or materials used, severe pain, blood clots, and infertility.

Ovary removal surgery procedures

Ovary removal surgery can be performed using several methods.Laparoscopic surgery (keyhole surgery) is a minimally invasive approach that uses a tiny camera to examine the inside of your abdomen. The surgeon makes several small incisions on your skin to remove the ovary. Recovery from laparoscopic surgery is typically quicker, with a lower risk of infection.

Vaginal removal of the ovary also involves a lower risk of infection and a faster recovery time.

A laparotomy involves making larger incisions in the abdomen. It generally has a longer recovery time and a higher chance of complications compared to the other methods.

Preparation for surgery

1. Discuss the details of the surgery with your surgeon and review any pre- and post-operative care instructions.
2. Be aware of the potential risks, the expected recovery time, and the specifics of how the procedure will be performed. 
3. Your surgeon may request tests such as a physical examination, blood and urine tests, and imaging as needed.
4. If you smoke, it is important to stop before the surgery.

Post-surgery recovery period

The recovery period after ovary removal surgery varies depending on the type of surgery:

• Laparoscopic or vaginal surgery: You may be able to leave the hospital the same day.
• Laparotomy: This procedure typically requires a longer hospital stay.

In general, you can expect to restrict your activities for at least two weeks. For a laparotomy, it could take several weeks before you can return to your normal routine.

Make an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals

If you have questions about ovary removal surgery, get in touch with us to book an appointment today for a consultation, or visit our Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department at your nearest Gleneagles Hospital