Ovariectomy (oophorectomy) in Turkey | Convalescence & process & costs

Types of oophorectomy in Turkey: Options and indications

Oophorectomy is the surgical removal of one or both of the patient's ovaries. Depending on the medical needs, this procedure can be combined with the removal of the fallopian tubes. In Turkey, several types of oophorectomy are performed, each of which responds to specific indications:

• Unilateral oophorectomy: Only one ovary is removed, leaving the other ovary intact. It is usually performed for benign tumors, ovarian cysts, or localized abnormalities.
• Bilateral oophorectomy: Removal of both ovaries, resulting in immediate menopause. This procedure is often indicated in the presence of serious ovarian pathology, such as cancer or a high risk of genetic disease.
• Salpingo-oophorectomy: This procedure combines oophorectomy and salpingectomy (removal of the fallopian tubes). It can be unilateral, removing a single ovary and fallopian tube, or bilateral, removing both ovaries and fallopian tubes.
• Salpingo-oophorectomy with hysterectomy: This procedure includes removal of the uterus. It is reserved for complex cases, especially advanced gynecological cancers, and is an important medical decision with significant hormonal and physiological implications.

Thanks to medical advances and the expertise of Turquie's Santé care institutions, these procedures are performed using modern techniques that guarantee safety and comfort for patients.

Preparing for ovariectomy surgery

Before having your ovariectomy in Turkey, you need to have a thorough discussion with your surgeon and anesthesiologist to fully understand the procedure. Don't hesitate to ask any questions or express any concerns you may have so that you can clear up any uncertainties and approach this stage with complete peace of mind.

It is generally advisable not to eat or drink for several hours before surgery. Please follow your surgeon's instructions regarding dietary restrictions and the time of your last fluid intake.

You should also tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking. Some treatments may need to be adjusted or discontinued before surgery to minimize the risk of complications.

Finally, it is important to avoid smoking and drinking alcohol in the weeks and months before your oophorectomy. These substances can increase the risk of infection and postoperative complications, and abstinence will help optimize the safety and success of the procedure.

Surgical ovarian removal in Turkey

In Turkey, ovarian removal is performed by highly skilled surgical teams following a rigorous two-step protocol. Each step is performed with extreme precision to ensure the patient's safety and comfort.

First, appropriate anesthesia is administered according to the needs and specifics of the clinical case. This may be general, spinal, or epidural to ensure optimal, pain-free care throughout the procedure.

Next, oophorectomy, which may involve one or both ovaries and the fallopian tubes or uterus, involves a variety of surgical techniques. These include:

• Abdominal (or laparotomy) oophorectomy.
• Vaginal oophorectomy.
• Laparoscopic oophorectomy. 

The therapeutic protocol is individualized according to the clinical indication and the characteristics of each patient, intending to achieve the best possible results while minimizing risks.

Risks and side effects of an oophorectomy

Although oophorectomy can be an effective treatment for certain medical conditions, it also has potential risks and side effects:

• Risks associated with anesthesia: such as allergic reactions, breathing problems, or heart problems.
• Postoperative pain and discomfort: It is common to experience some pain, discomfort, or stiffness in the pelvic area, as well as nausea, vomiting, or fatigue.
• Risk of infection, especially in the pelvic area or surgical wound.
• Although rare, there is a risk of excessive bleeding during or after surgery that may require a blood transfusion or additional surgery.
• Early menopause.
• Increased risk of cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis.
• Infertility: permanent loss of reproductive capacity.

It's important to discuss the benefits and risks of oophorectomy, as well as possible therapeutic alternatives in Turkey, with your doctor before deciding to undergo surgery.

Recovery from an oophorectomy

The recovery time from an oophorectomy depends on the individual situation, including the reason for the surgery and the way it was performed. For example, removal for cancer may require a longer recovery period than simple cyst removal. Laparoscopic or robotic surgery, which is less invasive, generally allows for a faster recovery (2 weeks) than open surgery (6 weeks).

In most cases, a gradual return to activity is possible a few weeks after surgery.

Even in benign cases (cysts, infections),strict medical follow-up is essential. It allows us to monitor the healing process and detect any complications.

The resumption of physical activities and sports should be done with the doctor's consent and gradually.