What is oophorectomy done with?

During laparoscopic surgery, the surgeon makes small incisions in the abdomen, places a camera and fine instruments inside, and uses a monitor to see the pelvis. The ovary is separated from nearby tissues, blood vessels are controlled, and the ovary is removed through an incision. One ovary or both ovaries may be removed.

An open operation, called a laparotomy, uses a larger abdominal incision. The approach may depend on the reason for surgery, the size or position of the ovary, previous operations, and the surgeon's assessment of safety.

Ask whether the plan is laparoscopic or open, which ovary will be removed, and whether the fallopian tubes or other tissue may also be treated. Discuss fertility, hormone changes, and whether removing both ovaries could bring on surgical menopause before the operation.

After surgery, follow instructions about wound care, activity, bathing, pain relief, and follow-up. Gentle movement can support recovery, while heavy lifting and strenuous activity may need to wait until your surgeon says they are appropriate.

Contact your surgical team for worsening pain, fever, repeated vomiting, increasing redness or discharge from an incision, or difficulty passing urine. Seek urgent care for heavy vaginal bleeding, chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, or a painful swollen leg.

Why do I need the operation, and is laparoscopic surgery suitable for me? What could removal of one or both ovaries mean for fertility, hormone symptoms, and follow-up care?