A myomectomy removes fibroids while keeping the uterus, which makes it the preferred operation for women who want to protect their fertility. It can be performed by keyhole (laparoscopic), through the cervix (hysteroscopic), or open surgery — depending on the size, number and location of the fibroids.
What are fibroids?
Fibroids are common, non-cancerous growths of the muscular wall of the uterus. Many cause no symptoms, but others lead to heavy periods, pressure, pelvic pain or fertility problems. Not every fibroid needs surgery — small, symptom-free fibroids are often simply monitored.
What is a myomectomy?
A myomectomy removes the fibroids while leaving the uterus in place. It is chosen when fibroids cause significant symptoms or affect fertility, and when preserving the womb is important to you.
Open vs laparoscopic vs hysteroscopic
- Hysteroscopic myomectomy — for fibroids inside the cavity of the womb, removed through the cervix with no skin incision.
- Laparoscopic (keyhole) myomectomy — for fibroids in or on the uterine wall, through a few small incisions; usually less pain and a faster recovery.
- Open myomectomy — for very large or numerous fibroids; a larger incision and a longer recovery, but sometimes the safest choice.
The best approach depends on the fibroids themselves, not on preference alone. Your surgeon explains the trade-offs after reviewing your scans.
Recovery
Hysteroscopic and keyhole procedures often allow a same-day or short stay and a return to light activity within one to two weeks. Open surgery needs a longer hospital stay and several weeks of recovery. If you plan a pregnancy, your team advises how long to wait before trying.
Will I still be able to have children?
Preserving fertility is the main reason to choose myomectomy over a hysterectomy. For many women, a successful myomectomy improves the chance of pregnancy, though this depends on individual factors discussed at your consultation.
See the full gynaecological surgery guide and our transparent price list.
Sources: RCOG, NICE, ACOG. This article is for general education and does not replace a medical consultation. Reviewed by Assist. Prof. Dr. Muzaffer Uçarer (Obstetrics & Gynaecology), UCARER Women’s Health, Istanbul.
