Laparoscopic Hysterectomy Specialist

What is a laparoscopic hysterectomy?

Hysterectomy, which involves removing the uterus, is one of the most common surgical procedures in women’s health. After a hysterectomy, your menstrual periods end and you can no longer get pregnant.

A traditional hysterectomy is an open procedure that involves removing your uterus through a large incision in your abdomen. Laparoscopic hysterectomy is a minimally invasive procedure because it uses much smaller incisions.

Dr. Fomitcheva has extensive experience performing a laparoscopic hysterectomy, which uses specialized instruments to remove your uterus while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. Using a thin, flexible camera called a laparoscope, Dr. Fomitcheva can perform the entire procedure through a few tiny incisions.

Why would I need a laparoscopic hysterectomy?

Fibroids are the most common reason for hysterectomy surgery. In addition to fibroids, laparoscopic hysterectomy treats the same gynecologic conditions as an open hysterectomy, including endometriosis, abnormal bleeding, and chronic pelvic pain.

Dr. Fomitcheva explores every available nonsurgical treatment before recommending any type of surgery. However, hysterectomy is the most effective treatment for many women.

What are the benefits of a laparoscopic hysterectomy?

Because laparoscopic hysterectomy uses only a few small incisions instead of one large one, it causes less damage to your healthy tissues. This minimally invasive approach leads to many advantages, such as:

• Less blood loss
• Reduced scarring
• Less postoperative pain
• Shorter recovery time
• Lower risk of infection

Although laparoscopic hysterectomy is often the preferred approach, it’s not always possible. In some cases, an open hysterectomy may be the safest option.

What should I expect from a laparoscopic hysterectomy?

Laparoscopic hysterectomy involves general anesthesia, so you’ll be asleep during the procedure. Dr. Fomitcheva may perform a laparoscopic hysterectomy as an outpatient procedure, which means you don’t have to stay in the hospital. The surgery takes about 1-3 hours.

After surgery, Dr. Fomitcheva provides you with specific instructions for recovery. This may involve taking over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers for a few days to reduce discomfort.

You should be able to return to work in 1-3 weeks, depending on how well you feel and how physically demanding your job is. You can resume sex and exercise a few weeks after surgery.

To learn more about a laparoscopic hysterectomy, call South Shore Women's Care or request an appointment online today.