A myomectomy is a surgical procedure designed to remove benign fibroids that grow on the uterine wall. Fibroids are noncancerous growths made up of fibrous tissue that can grow on the uterus. Uternine fibroids only need to be removed if physical pain and fertility issues are present.

Cutting Vs Stretching

Whether the surgeon performing your myomectomy prefers stretching to cutting your stomach muscles, an initial incision is required simply to gain access to the abdominal wall. Surgeons who stretch out the stomach muscles instead of cutting them do so because recovery time is often quicker and less scar tissue will build up. Despite this, stretching the muscles may result in less access for the surgeon, making only certain patients able to use this technique.

Vertical Incision

A myomectomy is most commonly performed under general anesthesia using one of two different types of incision techniques. A vertical incision is a cut that goes from the middle of your abdomen down to just above your pubic bone. This large incision is more effective at minimizing bleeding while giving your doctor more access to the uterus. Despite this, the scar left on the stomach can often be undesirable for women.

Horizontal Incision

A horizontal incision follows your bikini line for about 2.5 inches and leaves a less noticeable scar after the surgery is performed. The small and specific angle of the cut gives the surgeon less room to work with on the walls of your uterus. If you suffer from large fibroids, this type of incision may not be possible. Consult your doctor to find out which method is most effective for you.

Caution

A myomectomy, particularly an abodminal myomectomy, is a major surgical procedure that requires several days of recovery time in the hospital. In addition, blood transfusions may be necessary during the procedure if excessive bleeding occurs. Due to the serious nature of the procedure, it is important to consult a doctor and surgeon to make sure this surgery is absolutely necessary. Some individuals with fibroids can try an alternative myomectomy, such as a hysteroscopic myomectomy or laparoscopic myomectomy.