Prophylactic Ovary Removal: What to Expect

Prophylactic ovary removal is usually performed by a gynecologist or a gynecologic oncologist. A gynecologic oncologist is trained to diagnose and treat cancers that affect women’s reproductive organs. There have been some cases in which early ovarian cancer has been found during prophylactic ovary removal. For this reason, many high-risk women choose to have their ovary removal done by a gynecologic oncologist.

Once you choose a surgeon, you will work together to decide how the ovaries and fallopian tubes will be removed. In many cases, the surgery can be done laparoscopically, meaning that the ovaries and fallopian tubes are removed through small incisions in the pelvic region.

In the following sections, you will learn more about:

• What Happens Before Prophylactic Ovary Removal
• What Happens During Prophylactic Ovary Removal
• What Happens After Prophylactic Ovary Removal