Hysterectomy Specialist

What is a hysterectomy used to treat?

In most cases, a hysterectomy is recommended as a final treatment option to remedy a serious gynecological problem that hasn’t responded to more conservative treatment approaches. A hysterectomy can be the best course of action for a variety of gynecological conditions, including:

Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are benign growths in the wall of the uterus that typically cause chronic pelvic pain and heavy bleeding. Fibroids are the No. 1 reason for hysterectomy surgery, largely because an ongoing fibroid problem can only be cured through the removal of the uterus.

Cancer or Precancerous Conditions

If you have cancer of the cervix, uterus, endometrium (the uterine lining), or ovaries, or if you’ve had more than one Pap test result indicating the presence of precancerous cells, a hysterectomy is generally the most effective treatment option.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis, which occurs when the tissues that line the uterus grow outside of the uterus itself, can cause ongoing pelvic pain and heavy periods. When the condition can’t be managed effectively with a conservative approach, a hysterectomy is the only way to cure the problem completely.

Uterine Prolapse

Uterine prolapse, which can cause disruptive urinary and bowel problems, occurs when the uterus slips out of place and moves down into the vagina. A hysterectomy is usually the best way to resolve the condition.

A hysterectomy may also be the best option for other gynecological conditions that cause chronic pelvic pain or abnormal uterine bleeding, particularly when other treatment strategies aren’t effective.

What does a hysterectomy remove?

A hysterectomy may be performed in one of three ways, depending on the reason it’s recommended. In a partial hysterectomy, the upper part of the uterus is removed, but the cervix is left in place. A total hysterectomy removes the entire uterus, including the cervix.

Certain cancer cases may call for a radical hysterectomy, which removes the uterus and cervix as well as the fallopian tubes and ovaries.

How is a hysterectomy done?

Although hysterectomies are traditionally performed either as an open surgery, through an incision in the abdomen, or vaginally, Dr. Caceres and her team perform hysterectomies using minimally invasive da Vinci® robotic surgery whenever possible.  

This advanced laparoscopic procedure allows Dr. Caceres to perform surgery with miniature instruments through a single, small incision, using magnified, high-definition 3D imaging as a guide.

Women who have minimally invasive robotic surgery experience:

• Less physical trauma and pain
• A minimal amount of scarring
• Fewer postsurgical complications
• A speedier recovery overall

Dr. Caceres is the only gynecologist on the east coast who performs single-site laparoscopic hysterectomies.

How long does it take to recover after a hysterectomy?

Because a hysterectomy is a major surgery, complete recovery usually takes several weeks.

You can expect to have some pain for the first few days of recovery, and some amount of vaginal bleeding and discharge for a few weeks. Constipation is also normal following a hysterectomy. Your hysterectomy won’t induce menopause unless your ovaries are removed.

Some women feel depressed following a hysterectomy because it puts an end to their ability to bear children. If your surgery makes you feel emotional, Dr. Caceres and her team are always ready to help.

To learn more about hysterectomy surgery, call your nearest office or schedule an appointment online today.