While mostovarian cystsgo away on their own, some of these fluid-filled sacs might need to be surgically removed.

Patients with largeovarian cysts, painful symptoms, or suspicious imaging may be recommended for ovarian cyst surgery.

The recovery time depends on which surgery you have, and can range from a week to months.

A surgeon looking at an operating table

Shannon Fagan / Getty Images

Shannon Fagan / Getty Images

What Is an Ovarian Cyst?

Ovarian cystsare fluid-filled sacs that can develop on or inside an ovary.

There are several types, the most common of which are functional cysts formed during ovulation.

While most ovarian cysts resolve on their own, surgery is sometimes necessary to treat ovarian cysts.

Forruptured ovarian cysts, there may be blood and fluid loss, necessitating an emergency surgery for cyst removal.

Laparoscopy

Most cysts are removed using laparoscopy.

A single larger incision is made in the abdomen to reach the cyst.

The layers of muscle and skin are sewn back together and dressings are placed after the procedure is done.

It’s best to rest and relax within 24 hours of your surgery.

If you’re taking narcotics, refrain from driving, playing sports, or using heavy equipment.

Some benefits of removal include:

How Often Do People Need Ovarian Cyst Surgery?

The surgery can be done by laparoscopy, which is performed with small incisions and a camera.

Functional cysts, cystadenomas, and dermoid cysts are not associated with infertility.

Boston Center for Endometriosis.After your laparoscopy.

University of Michigan Health.Surgery for ovarian cysts.

Office on Women’s Health.Ovarian cysts.

Medicare.Ovarian cystectomy, unilateral or bilateral.

University of Utah Health.

Ovarian cysts:The good, the bad, and the ugly.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.Ovarian cysts.