Myomectomy

A myomectomy is a procedure that surgically removes fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, from the uterus. Unlike a hysterectomy, which removes the entire uterus, a myomectomy focuses only on the fibroids, allowing the uterus to remain intact. This makes it an important option for women who wish to preserve their fertility or maintain their uterus for personal reasons.

By removing the fibroids, the procedure helps relieve symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain or pressure on surrounding organs, while improving overall quality of life.

A myomectomy is a surgical treatment specifically aimed at removing fibroids from the uterus without removing the uterus itself. Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that can vary in size, number and location. Depending on these factors, fibroids can cause symptoms such as:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Pelvic pressure or pain
• Difficulty with urination or bowel movements
• Fertility challenges or complications during pregnancy

Unlike other treatments that only manage symptoms, a myomectomy directly removes the fibroids, offering long-term relief while preserving the uterus. It is often considered for women who wish to become pregnant in the future or those who prefer not to undergo a hysterectomy.

Modern surgical techniques, including laparoscopic and robotic-assisted approaches, allow myomectomies to be performed with minimal scarring, faster recovery and reduced post-operative pain.

Although hysteroscopy is generally safe, as with any medical procedure, it carries some risks. These risks are rare, but it’s important to be aware of them:

• Infection – there is a small chance of developing an infection following the procedure​. 
• ​Heavy bleeding – some patients may experience more bleeding than expected, though this is uncommon​.
• Uterine or cervical injury – although rare, the insertion of the hysteroscope or surgical instruments may cause injury to the uterus, cervix, or nearby organs such as the bowel or bladder​. 
• Reaction to anaesthesia – if general anaesthesia or sedation is used, there may be a risk of adverse reactions in some cases.
• Intrauterine scarring – occasionally, scarring may develop in the uterus after the procedure, which could lead to fertility issues​.

The procedure may be recommended if fibroids are causing significant symptoms or complications. Some of the common reasons include:

• Chronic pelvic pain or pressure
• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding leading to anaemia
• Infertility or repeated pregnancy loss linked to fibroids
• Difficulty emptying the bladder or passing stool due to fibroid pressure
• Rapid fibroid growth or large fibroids that distort the uterus

We provide comprehensive support before, during and after your myomectomy. Our team ensures you are fully informed and comfortable at every stage of your treatment.

The recovery depends on the surgical approach:

• Abdominal myomectomy may take 6 to 8 weeks.
• Laparoscopic or robotic myomectomy typically takes 2 to 4 weeks.
• Hysteroscopic myomectomy often allows recovery within a few days to 2 weeks.

Most women notice significant improvement in symptoms, such as lighter menstrual cycles and reduced pelvic pain. For those planning for pregnancy, fertility often improves after the uterus heals.

A myomectomy is usually performed as a single surgical procedure, with the aim of completely removing the fibroids identified before surgery. Typically, all significant fibroids are removed in one session, and no repeat operations are required at that time. This approach helps restore the normal function of the uterus while relieving symptoms such as pain and heavy bleeding.

That said, the exact outcome depends on several factors, including the number, size and location of fibroids, the surgical approach used, and the patient’s overall health. In rare situations, some smaller fibroids may be left behind if removing them poses risks to the uterus, or new fibroids may develop in the years following the procedure.

At Dr Ma Li’s clinic, every treatment plan begins with a detailed consultation to review your medical history, reproductive goals and personal preferences. Post-operative follow-up appointments are arranged to monitor recovery, assess uterine healing and ensure that symptoms have improved. While most patients achieve long-lasting relief after a single procedure, the possibility of future treatment for new fibroids will be discussed openly and thoroughly with you.

If you have been suffering from fibroids, then we urge you to schedule a consultation with us. Your gynaecological health deserves a tailored and personalised treatment plan that helps to improve your reproductive health and overall well-being.