Being Overweight Does Not Necessarily Limit Your Hysterectomy Options

Though there are several different types of hysterectomies, not all choices are appropriate for all women. However, many surgeons are not able to perform every hysterectomy type so they can only offer a choice for which they have training and skill. Additionally, not all medical facilities have the equipment necessary for all hysterectomy types.

There are some other reasons a surgeon may recommend an abdominal hysterectomy including weight issues, adhesions, an enlarged uterus, cancer concerns, a large fibroid, and/or endometriosis. However, a surgeon who is skilled with laparoscopic and/or daVinci methods may be able to perform the hysterectomy using one of those two methods and avoid an abdominal hysterectomy. Skilled laparoscopic and daVinci surgeons explain that once the “ports” are in place, women are similiar in size in many ways. Specifically, the daVinci robot is being utilized to offer overweight women an alternative to a large abdominal incision.

If for some reason the uterus cannot be delivered vaginally or cut into smaller pieces to be removed through a small incision in the abdomen, then an abdominal incision may be necessary. But before consenting to that hysterectomy type, seek a second opinion from someone who specializes in treating complex cases. A gynecological surgeon who specializes in minimally invasive surgery may have the skills necessary to offer you a less invasive hysterectomy option.

Not only does each woman need to work with her own medical team to find what is best for her, but she also needs to be comfortable with the choices offered her. Seeking a second opinion can insure that not only is a hysterectomy the right treatment option, but the suggested type is the best one for her, too.

Browse through the HysterSisters Surgery Options and Choices Articles with information for options as you make your decisions about hysterectomy. Types of hysterectomy: Vaginal, abdominal, laparoscopic, daVinci? Remove ovaries? Remove cervix? and other various topics.

This content was written by staff of HysterSisters.com by non-medical professionals based on discussions, resources and input from other patients for the purpose of patient-to-patient support.  Reprinted with permission: Surgery Options – Overweight