Ovarian Cyst Surgery With One Consistent Doctor and a Fertility First Team

What Is an Endometrioma?

An endometrioma is a cyst that forms on the ovary when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows where it should not. It is sometimes called a chocolate cyst because of the dark fluid inside. Endometriomas can cause pelvic pain, painful periods, and difficulty getting pregnant, and they can quietly affect the health of the ovary over time.

When an endometrioma needs surgery, the approach matters. At GoFertility the goal is to remove the cyst while keeping the ovary intact whenever it is safe to do so.

Two Ways to Treat an Endometrioma

There is more than one way to handle an ovarian endometrioma in surgery. The two approaches lead to very different outcomes for your ovary and your future fertility.

Removing Only the Cyst (Ovarian Cystectomy)


Dr. Jacob carefully separates the endometrioma from the healthy ovary and removes the cyst, leaving the ovary in place. This preserves ovarian tissue and helps protect your egg supply.

Why this matters

Keeping the ovary protects your natural hormone production and your ovarian reserve, which is the number of eggs you have. For patients who hope to conceive now or later, including through IVF, preserving that reserve can make a meaningful difference.

stethoscope in front of city

Removing the Whole Ovary

In some settings, an endometrioma is treated by removing the entire ovary along with the cyst. It can be a faster operation, but it means the loss of that ovary and the eggs it holds.

When is it needed

There are real situations where removing the ovary is the safest choice, such as very large or complex cysts or specific medical concerns. Dr. Jacob will always tell you honestly if that is the case for you. The point is that it should be a considered decision, not the automatic one.

Why Preserving the Ovary Matters

Your ovaries do two important jobs. They hold your eggs and they produce the hormones that support your cycle and your overall health. When the whole ovary is removed, both of those are affected. By removing only the endometrioma and leaving healthy ovarian tissue in place, Dr. Jacob works to protect your fertility and your natural hormone balance for the long term.

What To Expect Step By Step

Schedule Your Consult with Dr. Jacob

You start by either calling our office at 314-473-1285 or by filling out the form on this page. These visits are usually available within a week. During the consult you talk through your symptoms, your goals, your medical history, and how the process works. This first visit sets the plan for everything that comes next.

Imaging and Ovarian Reserve Testing

A pelvic ultrasound helps map the size and position of the endometrioma. When fertility is part of your goals, Dr. Jacob may also review markers of ovarian reserve so that the surgical plan is built to protect your egg supply as much as possible.

Surgical Planning

Dr. Jacob explains the recommended approach for your case, with the aim of removing the cyst and keeping the ovary. You review the expected benefits, the risks, and the recovery time together. Then a surgery date is scheduled and you receive clear instructions for the days beforehand.

Day of Surgery

The endometrioma is removed through small incisions using minimal access and robotic techniques whenever it is safe. Dr. Jacob and the operating room team guide you through each step and monitor you closely. Many patients go home the same day depending on complexity and their health.

Recovery and Follow Up

You receive clear instructions for comfort, activity, and follow up visits. Many patients are up and moving around the house within a few days, with fuller recovery over the following weeks. For those planning IVF or other fertility treatment, Dr. Jacob will explain when it is safe to move to the next step.

FAQ

Can an endometrioma be removed without taking the ovary?

In most cases, yes. Dr. Jacob focuses on removing the cyst while keeping the healthy ovary in place. There are situations where removing the ovary is the safest option, and he will explain clearly if that applies to your case.

Will keeping the ovary help my fertility?

Preserving healthy ovarian tissue helps protect your egg supply and your natural hormones. For patients hoping to conceive, now or in the future, that can be an important part of the plan. Dr. Jacob will talk through what your results mean for your goals.

Is the surgery minimally invasive?

Dr. Jacob performs most endometrioma surgeries as an outpatient procedure at the hospital, using small incisions with minimal access or robotic techniques. This can mean less pain, lower risk of infection, less scarring, and a faster return to daily life. Most patients go home the same day. Dr. Jacob will explain which method is recommended for you.

How long does recovery take?

Recovery depends on the size and complexity of the cyst and your overall health. Many patients return to light daily tasks within a few days and feel steadily better over the following weeks. You will receive a clear timeline before your procedure.

Is a robot operating on me during robotic surgery?

No. The robot does not move or make decisions on its own. Dr. Jacob is at the console in the operating room, in full control of every movement. The system simply helps translate his hand motions into very small, precise movements inside the body. Learn More.

Is surgery covered by insurance?

Coverage varies by plan and diagnosis. Our team can offer basic guidance, and we always encourage patients to call their insurance provider directly to confirm benefits before scheduling surgery.