Ovarian Cysts

Women’s Pelvic Surgery, LLC

Urogynecologists located in Hackensack, NJ & New York, NY

Ovarian cysts often present no symptoms and don’t need treatment, but if you have large cysts or cancerous cysts, they require removal. Trust Dr. Khashayar Shakiba and Dr. Kateryna Kolesnikova of Women’s Pelvic Surgery of North Jersey to evaluate your ovarian cysts and provide expert, minimally invasive surgery, if necessary. If you live in Hackensack, New Jersey, or the surrounding area, call the office or book an appointment online to learn more about treatment for ovarian cysts.

Ovarian Cysts Q & A

What is an ovarian cyst?

Women have two ovaries, positioned on each side of the uterus, that produce your eggs. The cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form inside or on an ovary. Small cysts may form often and then simply disappear on their own. But in some cases, ovarian cysts can cause pain and complications.

Complications with ovarian cysts include ovarian torsion, in which the cyst is so large that the ovary moves and twists painfully. A rupture of an ovarian cyst is another complication, and typically causes pain and internal bleeding.

What are the symptoms of an ovarian cyst?

If a cyst has ruptured or is exceptionally large, it may cause uncomfortable symptoms. These include:

  • Bloating
  • A heavy feeling in the abdomen and pelvic region
  • Sharp pain or a dull ache in the lower belly, on the side where the cyst exists

Cysts are often found during a routine pelvic exam. If you develop one after menopause, the cyst may be cancerous.

When do ovarian cysts require surgery?

If a cyst is large or shows evidence of growing, it increases your risk of complications and may need removal. Cysts that persist through two or three menstrual cycles or that are causing pain should also be removed. Cancerous cysts must also be removed to prevent cancer from spreading.

How is an ovarian cyst removed?

Dr. Shakiba removes any offending cysts with a minimally invasive approach, as long as there is no evidence of cancer. This approach poses the least damage to your ovarian tissue and preserves the fertility and quality of your eggs. Whenever possible, he retains the ovary when removing the cyst.

In some cases, he may suggest removing the affected ovary and leaving the other intact. This surgery does make it harder to become pregnant but doesn’t make you infertile.

The minimally invasive surgery uses small incisions and tiny instruments, so you experience the best possible outcome with the most comfortable recovery. Minimally invasive surgery is preferred because it involves less blood loss, shorter hospital stays, reduced risk of infection, and minimal scarring.

To learn more about ovarian cyst diagnosis and treatment, call Women’s Pelvic Surgery of North Jersey or book an online appointment today.