Myomectomy (Fibroid Removal)
Specialist surgical removal of uterine fibroids using advanced minimally invasive techniques, preserving the uterus and supporting future fertility where desired.
What Is a Myomectomy?
A myomectomy is a surgical procedure to remove uterine fibroids (also known as leiomyomas or myomas) while preserving the uterus. Fibroids are common benign growths of the uterine muscle that can cause symptoms such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, pressure, and in some cases, fertility problems.
Myomectomy is the preferred surgical treatment for women who wish to preserve their uterus, either for future pregnancy or for personal preference. The procedure can be performed laparoscopically, with robotic assistance, hysteroscopically (through the cervix), or through an open abdominal incision, depending on the size, number, and location of the fibroids.
Benefits and Advantages
Myomectomy offers important benefits for patients with symptomatic fibroids:
- Effective relief from heavy bleeding, pain, and pressure symptoms
- Preservation of the uterus and potential for future pregnancy
- Minimally invasive options with shorter recovery compared to open surgery
- Targeted removal of fibroids while maintaining uterine integrity
- Improved quality of life and resolution of fibroid-related symptoms
- Reduced need for long-term medical treatment
For patients who wish to retain their uterus, myomectomy provides an effective alternative to hysterectomy with good long-term outcomes.
Why Choose Prof Mahmood
Prof Uzma Mahmood is a Consultant Gynaecologist with specialist experience in minimally invasive myomectomy, including laparoscopic and robotic-assisted techniques. She has managed patients with complex and multiple fibroids and is committed to providing individualised surgical care.
- Specialist training in laparoscopic and robotic myomectomy
- Experience managing large, multiple, and complex fibroids
- A thorough approach to pre-operative assessment, including imaging to map fibroid location and size
- Careful surgical technique to optimise uterine healing and future fertility
- Clear, compassionate communication and patient-centred care
When Is a Myomectomy Recommended?
Myomectomy may be recommended in the following circumstances:
- Heavy menstrual bleeding caused by fibroids that has not responded to medical treatment
- Pelvic pain, pressure, or bulk-related symptoms from large or multiple fibroids
- Fibroids contributing to subfertility or recurrent pregnancy loss
- Rapidly growing fibroids requiring investigation or treatment
- Fibroids causing urinary frequency, constipation, or other pressure effects
- Patients who wish to preserve the uterus and avoid hysterectomy
The decision to proceed with myomectomy is made after a full assessment, including imaging, discussion of symptoms, and consideration of fertility plans. Not all fibroids require surgery, and Prof Mahmood will advise you on the best course of action.
What to Expect
Understanding the surgical process from start to finish helps patients prepare for a myomectomy and plan their recovery.
Before Surgery
You will have a thorough consultation with Prof Mahmood to discuss your symptoms, review imaging results, and plan the procedure. An MRI or detailed ultrasound may be arranged to map the fibroids accurately. In some cases, medical treatment may be recommended before surgery to reduce fibroid size and improve surgical conditions.
During Surgery
The procedure is performed under general anaesthetic. Depending on the size and location of the fibroids, a laparoscopic, robotic-assisted, hysteroscopic, or open approach is used. The fibroids are carefully dissected from the uterine muscle and removed, and the uterus is repaired in layers to support healing and future function. The duration of the operation depends on the number and size of fibroids.
After Surgery
Recovery depends on the surgical approach. After laparoscopic or robotic myomectomy, most patients stay in hospital for one to two nights and return to normal activities within two to four weeks. After an open myomectomy, recovery typically takes four to six weeks. You will receive detailed instructions on wound care, pain management, and activity restrictions. Follow-up appointments are arranged to monitor your recovery.
Is a Myomectomy Right for You?
Myomectomy is an effective option for many patients with symptomatic fibroids, but it is not suitable for everyone. Suitability depends on:
- The number, size, and location of the fibroids
- Severity of symptoms and response to medical treatment
- Fertility wishes and future pregnancy plans
- Previous uterine surgery
- Overall health and fitness for surgery
Prof Mahmood will provide a clear and honest assessment of whether myomectomy is the best option for you, and will discuss alternative treatments including medical management, uterine artery embolisation, and hysterectomy where relevant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, there is a possibility that new fibroids may develop after a myomectomy, as the procedure removes existing fibroids but does not prevent new ones from forming. The recurrence rate varies, but the majority of patients experience lasting symptom relief. Prof Mahmood will discuss long-term management options with you.
Yes. Myomectomy preserves the uterus and is specifically designed to support future fertility. You will usually be advised to wait three to six months after surgery before trying to conceive, to allow the uterus to heal fully. The recommended waiting period depends on the extent of the surgery.
This depends on the extent of the myomectomy. If the uterine cavity was entered during the procedure, a planned caesarean section is usually recommended to reduce the risk of uterine rupture during labour. Prof Mahmood will advise you on the implications for future deliveries.
A myomectomy removes the fibroids while preserving the uterus, whereas a hysterectomy removes the entire uterus. Myomectomy is the preferred option for patients who wish to retain their uterus or who are planning future pregnancies. Hysterectomy provides a definitive solution but is irreversible.
Most patients recover from a laparoscopic or robotic myomectomy within two to four weeks. You may experience mild discomfort and fatigue during this time. Heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should be avoided for four to six weeks to allow the uterus to heal properly.
No. Many fibroids are small, asymptomatic, and do not require treatment. Surgery is generally recommended only when fibroids are causing significant symptoms, affecting fertility, or growing rapidly. Prof Mahmood will assess your fibroids and recommend treatment only if it is clinically necessary.
Related Conditions
Fibroids
Specialist diagnosis and treatment of uterine fibroids in Ireland. Prof Uzma Mahmood offers advanced minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgical management for fibroids of all sizes and locations.
Learn moreHeavy Menstrual Bleeding
Specialist investigation and treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding in Ireland. Prof Uzma Mahmood provides comprehensive assessment and advanced minimally invasive management for menorrhagia.
Learn morePelvic Pain
Specialist assessment and management of chronic pelvic pain in Ireland. Prof Uzma Mahmood provides comprehensive evaluation and individualised treatment for persistent pelvic pain conditions.
Learn moreRelated Procedures
Robotic Surgery
BIARGS & SERGS certified robotic surgeon in Limerick. 300+ Da Vinci procedures, <5% complication rate. Prof Uzma Mahmood — advanced robotic gynaecological surgery at Bon Secours Hospital.
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Expert laparoscopic gynaecological surgery providing minimally invasive treatment for endometriosis, fibroids, ovarian cysts, and other pelvic conditions. Consultant care from Prof Uzma Mahmood.
Learn moreHysterectomy
Expert hysterectomy surgery using minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic techniques. Specialist Consultant Gynaecologist Prof Uzma Mahmood provides individualised care for fibroids, endometriosis, and other conditions.
Learn moreDiscuss Your Options
Prof Mahmood will provide a clear and honest recommendation based on your individual case. Book a consultation to discuss your treatment options.