Uterine fibroids are common, non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. While some fibroids cause no symptoms, others can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure, abdominal discomfort, or fertility-related concerns. When treatment is required, laparoscopic fibroid surgery, also known as laparoscopic myomectomy, may be an option for selected patients.
Unlike a hysterectomy, myomectomy removes the fibroids while preserving the uterus. Laparoscopic surgery uses small abdominal incisions and specialized instruments, which can offer advantages such as less postoperative discomfort and a shorter recovery compared with traditional open surgery in appropriately selected patients.
If you are looking for laparoscopic fibroid surgery in Mohali, understanding the procedure, benefits, recovery, risks and cost can help you have a more informed discussion with your Gynaecologist.
What Are Uterine Fibroids?
Uterine fibroids, also called leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths that develop from the muscle tissue of the uterus.
They can vary in:
- Size
- Number
- Location
- Growth pattern
The main types include:
1. Intramural Fibroids
These develop within the muscular wall of the uterus and are among the most common types.
2. Submucosal Fibroids
These grow toward the inner cavity of the uterus and may be associated with heavy menstrual bleeding and fertility problems.
3. Subserosal Fibroids
These develop on the outer surface of the uterus and may cause pressure or discomfort depending on their size and location.
Not every fibroid requires surgery. Treatment depends on symptoms, fibroid size and location, age, overall health and whether future pregnancy is desired.
What Is Laparoscopic Fibroid Surgery?
Laparoscopic fibroid surgery, usually referring to laparoscopic myomectomy, is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove fibroids while keeping the uterus in place.
During the procedure, the surgeon makes small openings in the abdomen and inserts a laparoscope—a thin instrument with a camera—along with specialized surgical instruments.
The surgeon views the uterus on a monitor, removes the fibroid and repairs the uterine tissue.
Compared with open abdominal myomectomy, laparoscopic surgery generally involves smaller incisions and may provide less postoperative pain, shorter hospital stays and quicker recovery in appropriately selected patients.
Who May Need Laparoscopic Fibroid Surgery?
Your gynaecologist may discuss surgery when fibroids are causing significant symptoms or affecting reproductive goals.
Possible reasons for considering treatment include:
- Very heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
- Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
- Pressure or fullness in the abdomen
- Frequent urination caused by pressure on the bladder
- Pain during intercourse
- Fibroids affecting fertility
- Fibroids that are large or growing
- Recurrent symptoms despite medical treatment
- Fibroids that interfere with pregnancy planning
However, laparoscopic surgery is not suitable for every fibroid. The number, size and location of fibroids, the size of the uterus and the patient’s medical history all influence the surgical approach.
Benefits of Laparoscopic Fibroid Surgery
One of the major reasons laparoscopic myomectomy is considered is its minimally invasive nature.
Smaller Incisions
Laparoscopic surgery generally uses several small abdominal incisions rather than the larger incision used for open abdominal surgery.
Less Postoperative Discomfort
Patients may experience less pain after laparoscopic surgery compared with open surgery.
Shorter Hospital Stay
Depending on the complexity of the procedure and the patient’s recovery, hospital discharge may occur relatively soon after surgery.
Faster Recovery
Many patients can return to everyday activities sooner than after open abdominal surgery, although recovery varies from person to person.
Reduced Surgical Scarring
The smaller incisions generally result in smaller abdominal scars.
Uterus Preservation
A myomectomy removes fibroids while keeping the uterus in place. This can be particularly important for women who want to preserve their uterus or are planning future pregnancy.
Laparoscopic Fibroid Surgery vs Open Surgery
| Feature | Laparoscopic Myomectomy | Open Myomectomy |
|---|---|---|
| Incision | Small abdominal incisions | Larger abdominal incision |
| Postoperative pain | Often less | Usually more |
| Hospital stay | Usually shorter | Usually longer |
| Recovery | Generally quicker | Generally longer |
| Scarring | Smaller scars | Larger scar |
| Suitability | Selected fibroids/patients | May be preferred for very large or numerous fibroids |
The final approach depends on the individual patient’s fibroids and medical circumstances. A larger or more complex fibroid burden may make open surgery more appropriate.
How Is Laparoscopic Fibroid Surgery Performed?
Although the exact procedure varies, laparoscopic myomectomy generally involves several steps.
Step 1: Pre-Surgery Assessment
Your doctor may review your symptoms, medical history and fertility plans. Imaging such as ultrasound or MRI may be used to determine the number, size and location of fibroids.
Step 2: Anaesthesia
Laparoscopic myomectomy is generally performed under general anaesthesia.
Step 3: Small Abdominal Incisions
Small openings are made in the abdomen through which the laparoscope and surgical instruments are inserted.
Step 4: Fibroid Removal
The surgeon identifies the fibroid and carefully separates it from the surrounding uterine tissue.
Step 5: Uterine Repair
After removing the fibroid, the uterine tissue is repaired as required.
Step 6: Recovery
After surgery, you are monitored in a recovery area before being transferred to a ward or discharged, depending on your condition and the hospital’s protocol.
Laparoscopic Fibroid Surgery Recovery Time
Recovery time varies depending on the number and size of fibroids, surgical complexity, your general health and whether any complications occur.
A general recovery timeline may look like this:
First Few Days
You may experience:
- Abdominal discomfort
- Tiredness
- Bloating
- Mild vaginal bleeding or spotting
- Shoulder-tip discomfort caused by the gas used during laparoscopy
These symptoms can occur after laparoscopic surgery and generally improve as recovery progresses.
First 1–2 Weeks
Many patients gradually return to normal light activities. Your surgeon will advise you regarding exercise, lifting, driving and work.
Several Weeks
Full recovery can take several weeks, particularly after a more complex myomectomy. UCLH advises patients to plan for approximately six weeks away from work, although individual recovery can be shorter or longer depending on the procedure and occupation.
Important: Your personal recovery time should always be based on your surgeon’s advice rather than a fixed timeline found online.
What Can You Do During Recovery?
To support recovery:
- Follow your surgeon’s medication instructions.
- Keep incision sites clean and dry as advised.
- Start walking gently when your medical team recommends it.
- Avoid strenuous exercise until cleared.
- Avoid heavy lifting during the recommended recovery period.
- Attend your follow-up appointments.
- Follow your doctor’s advice regarding sexual activity and returning to work.
- Contact your healthcare team if you develop concerning symptoms.
Risks of Laparoscopic Fibroid Surgery
Laparoscopic myomectomy is commonly performed, but like any surgery, it has potential risks.
Possible complications include:
Bleeding
Fibroids can have a significant blood supply, and bleeding may occur during surgery. In some cases, a blood transfusion may be required.
Infection
There is a risk of infection at the incision sites or within the pelvis.
Injury to Nearby Organs
Rarely, nearby structures such as the bladder, bowel or ureters can be injured during surgery.
Blood Clots
As with other operations, surgery can increase the risk of blood clots in the legs or lungs.
Adhesions or Scar Tissue
Scar tissue may develop after surgery and can occasionally affect future procedures or reproductive health.
Conversion to Open Surgery
In some cases, the surgeon may need to change from laparoscopic surgery to open surgery because of significant bleeding, fibroid size/location or other surgical considerations.
Recurrence of Fibroids
Myomectomy removes existing fibroids, but it does not guarantee that new fibroids will never develop. New fibroids can occur over time.
Can Fibroids Come Back After Laparoscopic Surgery?
Yes. Removing a fibroid does not completely prevent new fibroids from developing in the future.
If new fibroids form or previously undetected fibroids grow, additional treatment may eventually be required. The possibility of recurrence should be discussed with your gynaecologist based on your individual situation.
Can You Get Pregnant After Laparoscopic Myomectomy?
For women who want future pregnancy, preserving the uterus can be an important reason for considering myomectomy.
Some women may experience improved fertility after removal of fibroids that interfere with conception or the uterine cavity. However, fertility outcomes depend on factors such as age, fibroid location, number and size, ovarian function and other reproductive factors.
After a myomectomy, your doctor will advise when it is appropriate to start trying for pregnancy. Mayo Clinic notes that doctors often recommend waiting around 3 to 6 months after myomectomy to allow the uterus to heal.
Pregnancy and delivery planning after myomectomy should be individualized because the type and depth of uterine repair can influence pregnancy management.
Laparoscopic Fibroid Surgery Cost in Mohali
The cost of laparoscopic fibroid surgery in Mohali can vary considerably from one patient to another.
There is no single fixed price because the total cost may depend on:
- Number of fibroids
- Size and location of fibroids
- Surgical complexity
- Pre-operative investigations
- Surgeon and hospital charges
- Anaesthesia
- Operation theatre charges
- Hospital stay
- Medicines and consumables
- Follow-up requirements
- Whether additional procedures are required
Therefore, an exact cost should be provided after a medical evaluation rather than relying on a generic online estimate.
At SPAW Hospital, Mohali, patients can discuss their diagnosis, treatment options and estimated treatment expenses with the gynaecology team before proceeding.
Is Laparoscopic Fibroid Surgery Right for You?
Not every woman with fibroids needs surgery, and not every fibroid can be treated laparoscopically.
Your gynaecologist may consider:
- Your symptoms
- Fibroid size
- Fibroid location
- Number of fibroids
- Uterine size
- Previous abdominal or pelvic surgeries
- Your age
- Fertility plans
- Overall health
- Previous treatment
The goal is to choose an approach that is appropriate for your individual condition rather than selecting surgery based only on the size or name of the procedure.
When Should You See a Gynaecologist?
Consider a gynaecological evaluation if you experience:
- Very heavy periods
- Periods lasting unusually long
- Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
- Abdominal pressure or fullness
- Frequent urination
- Pain during intercourse
- Difficulty becoming pregnant
- Repeatedly low haemoglobin associated with heavy menstrual bleeding
- A known fibroid that is increasing in size or causing symptoms
Early evaluation can help determine whether monitoring, medication, minimally invasive treatment or surgery is appropriate.
Laparoscopic Fibroid Surgery at SPAW Hospital, Mohali
At SPAW Hospital, Sector 70, Mohali, women with fibroids can discuss their symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options with the Gynaecology team.
Dr. Harmanpreet Kaur is a Gynaecologist and Laparoscopic Surgeon with:
- MBBS
- MD in Obstetrics & Gynecology, India
- MCh in Minimally Invasive Surgery (Laparoscopy), UK
- MRCOG, UK
Treatment planning can include evaluation of fibroids and discussion of appropriate minimally invasive or other surgical options based on the patient’s condition and reproductive goals.
Looking for Laparoscopic Fibroid Treatment in Mohali?
If fibroids are causing heavy bleeding, pain, pressure or fertility concerns, don’t ignore persistent symptoms.
Book a consultation with a gynaecologist at SPAW Hospital to discuss your fibroid diagnosis and available treatment options.
📞 Call: +91 7837749294
SPAW Hospital
Sector 70, Mohali, Punjab
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is laparoscopic fibroid surgery?
Laparoscopic fibroid surgery, commonly called laparoscopic myomectomy, is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove uterine fibroids through small abdominal incisions while preserving the uterus.
2. How long does laparoscopic fibroid surgery take?
The duration depends on the number, size and location of fibroids and the complexity of the surgery. Your surgeon can provide a more accurate estimate after reviewing your imaging and medical history.
3. How long does it take to recover from laparoscopic myomectomy?
Recovery varies between patients. Many people gradually resume normal activities within the first few weeks, while complete recovery can take several weeks. More complex procedures may require longer recovery.
4. Is laparoscopic myomectomy painful?
Some pain, abdominal discomfort, bloating or shoulder-tip pain can occur after surgery. Pain medication and gradual movement can help during recovery.
5. Does laparoscopic myomectomy preserve fertility?
Myomectomy preserves the uterus, unlike hysterectomy. It may improve fertility in selected women when fibroids interfere with conception or pregnancy, but individual fertility outcomes vary.
6. Can fibroids grow back after surgery?
Yes. Myomectomy removes existing fibroids, but new fibroids can develop later.
7. Is laparoscopic surgery suitable for large fibroids?
It depends on the fibroid’s size, location, number, uterine size and other factors. Some large or numerous fibroids may require another surgical approach.
8. What is the cost of laparoscopic fibroid surgery in Mohali?
There is no universal cost. The final expense depends on the complexity of surgery, investigations, hospital stay, medicines, anaesthesia and other factors. A consultation is recommended for an individualized estimate.
9. Can I get pregnant after fibroid surgery?
Pregnancy may be possible after myomectomy, but the appropriate timing and pregnancy management should be discussed with your gynaecologist.
10. When should I seek urgent medical attention after surgery?
Seek urgent medical attention for symptoms such as high fever, worsening abdominal pain or swelling, difficulty passing urine, leg swelling/tenderness, difficulty breathing or chest pain.
Final Takeaway
Laparoscopic fibroid surgery can be an effective minimally invasive option for selected women with symptomatic uterine fibroids. It can remove fibroids while preserving the uterus and may offer advantages such as smaller incisions, less postoperative discomfort, shorter hospital stays and faster recovery compared with open surgery.
However, the right treatment depends on the individual’s fibroid characteristics, symptoms, medical history and fertility plans.
If you have been diagnosed with fibroids or are experiencing heavy periods, pelvic pain, pressure or fertility concerns, consult a qualified gynaecologist for an individualized evaluation.
For laparoscopic fibroid treatment in Mohali, contact SPAW Hospital at +91 7837749294.
