Sometimes it is difficult to tell what type of cyst you have by ultrasound or other imaging technique. However, if it is truly a dermoid, I do not think it will go away on its own. Does the ultrasound report indicate classic dermoid traits - hair, skin, teeth, etc.?
It is best to have just the cyst removed versus the whole ovary. The ovaries are essential our whole lives producing hormones into a woman's 80's.
Some doctors do not have the skills to remove cysts (cystectomy) which is why a lot of women needlessly lose an ovary or ovaries. Also, female organ removal (hysterectomy, oophorectomy) is grossly overused and very profitable.
Surgery has its own set of risks so you do not want to have it unless it is necessary. However, if you do need surgery, the recovery should be fairly easy since you are young and your doctor is doing it laparoscopically.
I hope this helps!
Hi there. How often do you check the cyst? I know that cysts are removed when they are 5 cm or more, however a dermoid cyst is not going to disappear on its own. If you want tohave a baby maybe you will face problems due to the cyst. I suggest you go to a 2nd doctor for another opinion.
Ok, let's go through each question one by one:
1. Yes, if you are uncomfortable with something your doctor tells you, you are encouraged to get a second opinion. Waiting is most certainly an option, but it does appear that the cyst is growing. The longer you wait, the more complications you may have later. As this type of cyst grows, it increases your chance of torsion which is a medical emergency.
2. The cyst will be removed, not drained.
3. There is a small chance of reoccurence if they only remove the cyst (cystectomy). If they remove the ovary, the chance of recurrence is 0. With dermoid cysts however, there is about a 10% chance there is one on the other ovary as well. During this type of surgery it is typical for your doctor to check both ovaries.
4. Another ultrasound will not be necessary.
5. If this is performed laparoscopically like your doctor proposed, there either may be several (5) small incisions in the abdominal area, or there will be a single tiny incision in your navel. The single incision is the most common way. There will be no visible scarring, and your stomach may bloat and ache for several days after. These symptoms can be managed with over the counter medications and do not persist long. There are also other risks, such as infection, that may occur in any surgery. However this surgery has progressed to a point of a single incision (surgical removal of an ovarian dermoid cyst has been performed for over 140 years!) the chances of infection are at a minimal point.
6. How long were you taking Provera, or was it a single course? Usually it is used to induce a period when you are not having or having irregular periods. This was likely a fault of the cyst. Your period should become regular after it's removal, otherwise you may need another round for your periods to resume normally.
7. The day of surgery you will not be able to perform other tasks and should rest. You will need someone to transport you to and from the hospital. The days following your surgery will be painful but can be managed with medication. It is still recommended that you rest for at least 3-5 days, and forego sexual intercourse for up to a week.
8. Sleeping on your back will likely be the most comfortable position, but there is no harm in sleeping on either side. You should not sleep on your stomach.