Gynecologic laparoscopy is keyhole surgery in which a thin camera and fine instruments are inserted through two to four small abdominal incisions to diagnose and treat pelvic conditions. It is commonly used for ovarian cysts, endometriosis, fibroids, ectopic pregnancy and unexplained pelvic pain. Compared with open surgery, it usually means less pain, smaller scars and a quicker return to daily life.
- Duration
- 30 minutes to about 3 hours
- Anesthesia
- General anesthesia
- Hospital stay
- Same day to 2 nights
- Back to desk work
- About 1–2 weeks
- Full activity
- About 4–6 weeks
- Cost guide
- ₩1.5M–5M (general guide)
What is laparoscopy?
During laparoscopy, the abdomen is gently inflated with carbon dioxide gas to create space, and a laparoscope (a thin telescope with a camera) is inserted through a small cut near the navel. Fine instruments pass through one to three further 5–10 mm incisions. The surgeon works while watching a magnified view on a monitor.
- Diagnostic laparoscopy looks for causes of pelvic pain or infertility, such as endometriosis or adhesions.
- Operative laparoscopy treats what is found in the same operation.
Dr. Jung-Ho Seo is a former professor of OB-GYN at Chung-Ang University and a former editorial board member of the AAGL, an international society for minimally invasive gynecologic surgery.
Conditions treated with laparoscopy
| Condition | Laparoscopic procedure |
|---|---|
| Ovarian cysts | Ovarian cystectomy, preserving healthy ovarian tissue where possible |
| Endometriosis | Excision or ablation of implants, removal of endometriomas |
| Uterine fibroids | Laparoscopic myomectomy for fibroids in or on the uterine wall |
| Ectopic pregnancy | Removal of the pregnancy from the tube (emergency care) |
| Permanent contraception | Tubal ligation or salpingectomy |
| Chronic pelvic pain | Diagnosis and release of adhesions |
An ovarian cyst can cause pelvic pain, pressure or a risk of the ovary twisting.
The cyst is removed through small incisions, preserving healthy ovarian tissue where possible.
Laparoscopy vs. open surgery
| Laparoscopy | Open surgery (laparotomy) | |
|---|---|---|
| Incisions | 2–4 cuts of about 0.5–1 cm | One cut of about 10–15 cm |
| Hospital stay | Same day to 2 nights | Several nights |
| Pain after surgery | Usually less | Usually more |
| Return to desk work | About 1–2 weeks | About 4–6 weeks |
| When preferred | Most benign gynecologic conditions | Very large masses, extensive adhesions, some cancers |
Occasionally a laparoscopy needs to be converted to open surgery for safety; this possibility is discussed before you consent.
Your laparoscopy at Yoonho, step by step
- Consultation and ultrasound At Yoonho Women's Hospital in Apgujeong, Seoul, your symptoms are reviewed in English and a transvaginal ultrasound is done the same day. Bring any previous scans or reports.
- Pre-operative tests Blood tests, ECG and chest X-ray as needed for general anesthesia.
- Planning and consent The planned procedure, alternatives, risks and expected recovery are explained, with a written cost estimate.
- Surgery day Fast for about 8 hours. The operation takes from 30 minutes to about 3 hours depending on what is treated.
- Recovery You start walking within hours. Depending on the procedure you go home the same day or after 1–2 nights, with written aftercare instructions.
- Results visit Wound check and pathology results, usually in about a week, explained in English with a written report.
Recovery and possible risks
- Day 0–2 Abdominal soreness, bloating and shoulder-tip pain from the gas are common and ease with walking and pain relief.
- Week 1–2 Most women return to desk work and normal daily activity.
- Weeks 4–6 Return to heavy lifting, intense exercise and intercourse as advised for your procedure.
Possible risks include bleeding, infection, injury to the bowel, bladder or blood vessels (uncommon), blood clots, hernia at an incision site, and anesthesia-related risks. Ovarian surgery may affect ovarian reserve; this is discussed if you plan a future pregnancy.
Cost and insurance for international patients
As a general guide, laparoscopic surgery ranges from about ₩1,500,000 to ₩5,000,000, depending on the procedure, hospital stay and pathology. A written estimate is given after consultation.
- Residents enrolled in National Health Insurance are usually covered for a large part of medically necessary surgery; see health insurance for foreigners.
- Travelers can request an English diagnosis, itemized receipt and surgical certificate for insurance claims.
Planning surgery for fibroids? See fibroid treatment for foreigners.
Why international patients choose Yoonho
Frequently asked questions
How big are the scars?
Usually two to four small scars of about 0.5–1 cm, one hidden in or near the navel. They typically fade over several months.
Why does my shoulder hurt after laparoscopy?
The carbon dioxide gas used during surgery can irritate the diaphragm and cause shoulder-tip pain. It is common and usually settles within 1–3 days.
How long should I stay in Seoul after surgery?
Many patients plan about 1–2 weeks, so that the wound check and pathology results happen before a long-haul flight. Your surgeon will advise based on the procedure.
Can laparoscopy affect my fertility?
Laparoscopy is often used to protect fertility, for example by treating endometriosis. Surgery on the ovaries can reduce ovarian reserve, so the technique is planned carefully if you hope to conceive.
Will I need to stay overnight?
Short diagnostic procedures may be same-day. Cystectomy, endometriosis surgery or myomectomy usually involve 1–2 nights in hospital.
OB-GYN Specialist · Ph.D. · Medical Director
Former Professor of OB-GYN, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine · Former editorial board member, AAGL · 11th President, Korean Society of Aesthetic Gynecology
Last reviewed: . This page is for general information and does not replace an in-person consultation.
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