Hysterectomy Specialist

What is a hysterectomy?

A hysterectomy is a medically necessary surgery that removes your uterus. Depending on your particular health condition, you may have your fallopian tubes and ovaries removed as well. After the surgery, you no longer have a period and cannot become pregnant.

When is a hysterectomy necessary?

Many women suffer from health conditions that originate within the uterus, such as:

• Endometriosis
• Uterine fibroids
• Heavy or abnormal menstrual bleeding
• Cervical, ovarian, or uterine cancers
• Uterine prolapse
• Chronic pelvic pain

Hysterectomies are typically performed as a last resort, after all other less-invasive treatment methods, therapies, and medications are no longer able to resolve your gynecologic problem.

What are the different hysterectomy options?

If you do need a hysterectomy to correct a health issue, it’s important to know your options. One option is a total hysterectomy in which your doctor removes your entire uterus and cervix. Typically, unless there are additional problems, you may keep your ovaries and fallopian tubes. Another option is a partial hysterectomy that just removes the upper part of your uterus so that your cervix is still in place.

Finally, in some situations, your provider needs to perform a radical hysterectomy to remove your entire uterus, cervix, tissue surrounding the cervix, and the upper part of your vagina. Usually, a radical hysterectomy is only necessary to treat cancer. With a radical hysterectomy, you may or may not keep your ovaries and fallopian tubes, depending on your situation.

When it comes to performing hysterectomies, the doctors take a very personalized approach to diagnosing and resolving your condition. They help you understand which procedure is best for your health needs.

How is a hysterectomy performed?

Dr. De Leon or Dr. Nguyen-Luu may perform a hysterectomy vaginally, abdominally, or laparoscopically. Typically, the type of surgery you have depends on your health condition and the reason for your hysterectomy.

Vaginal and laparoscopic hysterectomies are less invasive than open, abdominal surgery, with a shorter recovery time. With these procedures, the doctor may go in vaginally or make just a few small incisions rather than one large one. After a hysterectomy, you can expect to fully recover in 3-6 weeks.

If you need a hysterectomy, it’s important to consider all your options before determining the best course of action for your individual needs. Call either the Irving or Dallas office to book an appointment or use the online booking tool.