If you have been told you have an ovarian cyst, or you are experiencing pelvic pain and wondering whether a cyst could be the cause, you probably have questions. Can you remove ovarian cysts? Do they always need treatment? What does recovery look like? At MAIA Gynecology in Downers Grove, IL, we hear these questions often, and we want you to have clear, medically accurate answers you can actually use. This guide walks through the most common questions patients ask about ovarian cysts, when removal may be recommended, and what thoughtful, personalized gynecologic care looks like at our practice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Can You Remove Ovarian Cysts in Downers Grove, IL
What is an ovarian cyst?
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that forms on or inside an ovary. Most ovarian cysts are functional, meaning they develop as a normal part of the menstrual cycle and resolve on their own within a few weeks to months. Other types, such as endometriomas, dermoid cysts, or cystadenomas, may be unrelated to ovulation and sometimes require closer monitoring or intervention. If you are wondering whether your symptoms point to a cyst, a pelvic exam and ultrasound can help clarify what is happening. You can learn more about gynecologic conditions we evaluate and manage at MAIA Gynecology.
Can you remove ovarian cysts, and is it always necessary?
Yes, ovarian cysts can be removed when clinically indicated, but removal is not always necessary. Many cysts resolve without treatment. Your provider will consider the cyst’s size, type, growth rate, and your symptoms before recommending a course of action. Watchful waiting with follow-up ultrasounds is a common and appropriate first step for small, uncomplicated functional cysts. Removal is more likely when a cyst is large, persistent, causes significant pain, or has characteristics that warrant further evaluation. The decision is always individualized to your specific situation and health history.
How does ovarian cyst removal work?
When ovarian cyst removal is recommended, the most common surgical approach is laparoscopic cystectomy, a minimally invasive procedure in which a surgeon removes the cyst through small incisions while preserving the ovary when possible. In some cases, particularly when a cyst is very large or its characteristics require it, a more involved procedure may be needed. The appropriate surgical approach depends on your individual anatomy, the cyst’s characteristics, and your overall health. At MAIA Gynecology, our providers bring expertise in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery and will walk you through every option so you feel informed and prepared before deciding.
What types of ovarian cysts are most likely to need removal?
Not all ovarian cysts carry the same clinical significance. Functional cysts, the most common type, frequently resolve on their own. Cysts that are more likely to need removal include large cysts that cause pain or pressure, dermoid cysts (which contain tissue such as fat or hair), endometriomas (cysts related to endometriosis), and any cyst with features that require further evaluation. Your provider will use ultrasound findings, laboratory results, and your symptom history to determine the most appropriate plan. Exploring our resources on gynecologic conditions can also help you understand the full picture.
Am I a good candidate for ovarian cyst removal?
Candidacy for ovarian cyst removal depends on several factors, including the cyst’s size and type, your symptoms, your age, your reproductive goals, and your overall health. Patients who are experiencing significant pelvic pain, whose cysts have not resolved after a period of monitoring, or whose imaging shows certain features may be candidates for surgical evaluation. Women who are approaching or in menopause may also be evaluated differently than those who are still cycling regularly. A thorough consultation at MAIA Gynecology, including a review of your ultrasound results and medical history, is the best way to understand whether removal is the right path for you.
Who should I see about an ovarian cyst in Downers Grove, IL?
A board-certified gynecologist with experience in minimally invasive gynecologic care is the appropriate starting point for ovarian cyst evaluation and management. At MAIA Gynecology in Downers Grove, our team of board-certified gynecologists includes Dr. Karen Wolowick, Dr. Susan Mitchell, and Dr. Colleen Skay. Physician assistant Ashley Cox, PA-C, is also part of our team. Dr. Mitchell brings over 20 years of experience as a minimally invasive surgery specialist, and our entire team is committed to clear communication and patient-centered decision-making. We serve patients throughout the Chicago suburbs, including those coming from Lombard, Naperville, and surrounding communities. You can learn more about our providers and their areas of expertise on our website.
What can I expect during an ovarian cyst evaluation appointment?
At your appointment, your provider will review your symptoms, menstrual history, and any prior imaging results. A gynecologic pelvic exam may be performed, and a pelvic ultrasound is often ordered or reviewed to assess the cyst’s size, location, and characteristics. Your provider will explain what the imaging shows in plain language and discuss whether monitoring, medication, or surgical referral is most appropriate. At MAIA Gynecology, we prioritize making sure you understand your options before taking any next step. Our boutique practice environment is designed to feel unhurried and supportive, not rushed or clinical.
How long does recovery take after ovarian cyst removal?
Recovery from laparoscopic ovarian cyst removal is generally shorter than recovery from open abdominal surgery. Most patients resume light activity within a few days and return to normal routines within one to two weeks, though individual experiences vary depending on the procedure, the cyst’s characteristics, and overall health. Some soreness, bloating, or fatigue in the days following surgery is common.
Your surgical team will provide specific post-operative guidance tailored to your procedure. If you have questions about what recovery might look like for your situation, your provider at MAIA Gynecology is a great resource for setting realistic expectations. Individual results may vary.
Do you serve patients from outside Downers Grove who are asking whether they can remove ovarian cysts?
Yes. While MAIA Gynecology is based in Downers Grove, IL, we regularly see patients from Lombard, Naperville, Lisle, Westmont, Woodridge, and throughout the greater Chicago suburban area. For patients who live farther away or have busy schedules, we also offer telehealth appointments for appropriate consultations, including initial symptom reviews and follow-up discussions.
In-person visits are required for physical exams, ultrasounds, and procedural care. If you are unsure whether your visit can be conducted virtually or requires an in-office appointment, our team can help you determine the best option when you call or book online.
What makes MAIA Gynecology different for ovarian cyst evaluation and care in Downers Grove?
MAIA Gynecology is an independent, boutique gynecologic practice where patients receive one-on-one time with experienced, board-certified providers, not a rushed appointment in a large clinic. Our team takes time to listen, explain findings clearly, and support patients as they make decisions about their care. We offer modern conveniences like online scheduling, e-paperwork, and HIPAA-compliant messaging, alongside a warm, welcoming office environment. For patients navigating complex gynecologic concerns such as ovarian cysts, that combination of clinical expertise and genuine attentiveness makes a meaningful difference. You can learn more about our practice and what sets us apart.
What does ovarian cyst removal cost, and does insurance cover it?
The cost of ovarian cyst evaluation and potential removal varies based on factors such as the type of procedure performed, the facility where surgery takes place, your insurance plan, and your individual deductible and coverage. Insurance often covers diagnostic visits, ultrasounds, and surgical procedures in part or in full when medically indicated.
At MAIA Gynecology, we encourage patients to review their insurance benefits and to ask our team about coverage details during their consultation. You can also visit our insurance and pricing information page for guidance, or ask about financing options when you call.
Is ovarian cyst removal safe, and what are the risks?
Laparoscopic ovarian cyst removal is a well-established gynecologic procedure that most patients tolerate well when performed by an experienced surgeon. As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, including bleeding, infection, injury to surrounding structures, and, in some cases, the need for a more extensive surgery than initially planned. The decision to proceed with surgery is made carefully, with a full discussion of the potential benefits and risks relative to your specific situation. Your provider will never recommend surgery without a clear clinical rationale and a thorough conversation. Asking questions during your consultation is not only welcome at MAIA Gynecology, but also encouraged.
Why Choose MAIA Gynecology for Ovarian Cyst Evaluation and Care?
At MAIA Gynecology, we understand that learning you may have an ovarian cyst can feel unsettling, and having a trusted, knowledgeable provider in your corner makes a real difference. Our board-certified gynecologists and physician assistant bring decades of combined experience in gynecologic care, including minimally invasive surgery, and are committed to evidence-based, up-to-date standards of care.
What sets us apart is the time we take with each patient: listening carefully, explaining findings clearly, and helping you feel confident in every decision. Our Downers Grove office serves the greater Chicago suburban area with comprehensive gynecologic services, from routine annual wellness visits to complex gynecologic evaluations, all in a welcoming, boutique environment built around your comfort.
Schedule Your Ovarian Cyst Consultation at MAIA Gynecology
If you have been wondering whether you can remove ovarian cysts, or you have been told you have a cyst and are not sure what to do next, MAIA Gynecology in Downers Grove, IL, is here to help. Our experienced, compassionate team will review your history, explain your options, and support you every step of the way. Book your appointment online to get started today.