What to Expect Before, During, and After Your Myomectomy

If you’ve been diagnosed with uterine fibroids, you may be wondering whether surgery is your best option. While many fibroids can be managed with medication or monitored, larger or symptomatic fibroids often require treatment to relieve symptoms and preserve your quality of life.

A myomectomy is a surgical procedure that removes uterine fibroids while leaving the uterus intact. Unlike a hysterectomy, a myomectomy allows women who wish to preserve their fertility or keep their uterus to do so.

At the OB-GYN practice of Alan B. Patterson, MD, in Coral Springs, Florida, Dr. Patterson and our team provide personalized care to help women determine whether a myomectomy is the right fibroid treatment for their needs. 

Before your myomectomy

Your first step is a comprehensive evaluation. Dr. Patterson will review your symptoms, medical history, and future pregnancy plans before discussing your treatment options.

Fibroids can cause various symptoms, including:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Pelvic pressure
• Frequent urination
• Constipation
• Pain during intercourse
• Difficulty getting pregnant

Depending on the size, number, and location of your fibroids, Dr. Patterson may recommend imaging studies, such as a pelvic ultrasound, to evaluate your uterus and plan your surgery.

You’ll also receive detailed instructions to help you prepare for the procedure. This may include completing pre-operative testing, adjusting certain medications, and avoiding food and drinks for a specified period before surgery.

During your myomectomy

The goal of a myomectomy is to remove the fibroids while preserving as much healthy uterine tissue as possible; the best surgical approach depends on the number, size, and location of your fibroids. 

Some women are candidates for minimally invasive laparoscopic myomectomy using small incisions, while others may require an open abdominal myomectomy procedure for larger or multiple fibroids.

Your surgery is performed under anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during the procedure. Dr. Patterson carefully removes the fibroids and reconstructs the uterine wall when necessary to support healing and maintain the strength of the uterus.

Every surgical plan is individualized to provide the safest procedure and the best possible outcome.

After your myomectomy

The type of surgery you have plays a role in your recovery. Women who undergo minimally invasive procedures generally return to their normal activities sooner than those who have an open abdominal myomectomy.

It’s normal to experience some soreness, fatigue, and mild cramping during the first several days after surgery. Dr. Patterson will provide detailed recovery instructions, including guidance on activity restrictions, pain management, incision care, and when it’s safe to return to work, exercise, and sexual activity.

Fortunately, most patients notice significant improvement in fibroid-related symptoms once they’ve recovered. Heavy periods tend to lighten, pelvic pressure decreases, and many women experience less discomfort during their menstrual cycles.

If you’re planning a future pregnancy, Dr. Patterson will discuss how long you should wait before trying to conceive and whether any special precautions may be recommended based on your surgery.

Personalized fibroid care you can trust

Every woman’s experience with uterine fibroids is different, which is why we take a highly individualized treatment approach. A comprehensive evaluation guides our recommendations, ensuring the best possible outcome for you.

Are fibroids interfering with your daily life or affecting your ability to become pregnant? Book a consultation at Alan B. Patterson, MD, in Coral Springs, Florida, today. Our team can develop a personalized treatment plan that helps you find lasting uterine fibroid relief.