About Hysterectomies
A hysterectomy is a gynecology surgery that involves removing a woman's uterus. If you have a condition that affects your uterus and impacts your quality of life, you might need to have a hysterectomy to relieve pain or improve other problematic symptoms. Common reasons for a hysterectomy include:
- Gynecologic cancer
- Endometriosis
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Heavy menstrual periods
- Pelvic pain
- Uterine fibroids
Dr. Gerry Sotomayor is extensively experienced in performing hysterectomy surgeries to treat many types of reproductive problems. To learn more about our treatment options, including laparoscopic hysterectomy, schedule an appointment at Gynecology and Cosmetic Surgery Center of Atlanta near Norcross, GA.
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What Are the Benefits of A Hysterectomy?
Even though a hysterectomy can be a scary procedure to consider, it is an effective and safe way to treat many feminine health problems and relieve life-altering pain. Benefits of a hysterectomy performed at Gynecology and Cosmetic Surgery Center of Atlanta in Norcross, GA include:
- Multiple surgical techniques may be offered
- Relief from chronic pelvic pain and/or heavy or irregular bleeding
- Eliminating the risk of uterine cancer or removing tumors
- Reducing the likelihood of getting ovarian or endometrial cancer
- Preventing future menstruation
- Treating fibroids, endometriosis, uterine prolapse, adenomyosis, or gynecological cancer(s)
- Recovery downtime may be as short as a few days
Who is a Candidate for a Hysterectomy?
Candidates for a hysterectomy are women who have been diagnosed with conditions that affect the uterus, such as cancer, endometriosis, or fibroids. Women who have had multiple miscarriages or suffer from pelvic pain and severe menstrual bleeding may also be candidates for a hysterectomy. Dr. Sotomayor will discuss the risks and benefits of this procedure to help decide if this is the best option for your individual situation.
What to Expect with a Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy is usually used as a last resort for patients whose condition has not resolved through more conservative treatments. Dr. Sotomayor will be able to provide all of your options during your initial visit to our office. The surgery is an outpatient procedure performed while you are asleep under general anesthesia. Our practice offers multiple types of hysterectomies, including traditional (open) hysterectomy and laparoscopic hysterectomy. A traditional hysterectomy involves making a large abdominal incision while laparoscopic surgery uses three small incisions in the abdomen, and generally has a quicker recovery period. In either case, Dr. Sotomayor detaches and removes the uterus from the body. Sometimes, other structures are also removed, such as the cervix, ovaries, or fallopian tubes. After a hysterectomy, you will no longer have a menstrual period, and your body will enter surgical menopause if your ovaries are removed. Our team will provide you with home recovery guidelines and monitor your progress through detailed follow-up care.
Hysterectomy FAQ
Will a hysterectomy cause menopause immediately?
If the ovaries are removed during your hysterectomy, you will undergo surgical menopause. Depending on your condition and your specific surgical treatment plan, it may be possible for Dr. Sotomayor to remove the uterus without removing the ovaries.
How long does it take to recover from a hysterectomy?
The typical recovery period from an abdominal/open hysterectomy is about six weeks. After a laparoscopic hysterectomy, most women can return to light, regular activities within several days, with full recovery lasting approximately 4 – 6 weeks. During your consultation and after your procedure, Dr. Sotomayor and our team at Gynecology and Cosmetic Surgery Center of Atlanta will give instructions on any restrictions and recommendations to help ensure your recovery is as quick and successful as possible.
Will I have a scar after a hysterectomy?
Open hysterectomies require a sizable incision and therefore leave a scar. However, if you are eligible for a minimally invasive laparoscopic hysterectomy, the incisions are smaller, reducing scarring.
Improve Your Health
At Gynecology and Cosmetic Surgery Center of Atlanta, we take the health of our patients seriously. While the decision to have a hysterectomy is not always a simple one, our caring team is here to help you make the best choice for your well-being. Dr. Gerry Sotomayor is highly skilled in various options for a hysterectomy and can provide more information during a consultation near Norcross, GA.
