59 yr old w/”benign cystic teratoma” aka “dermoid cyst”

I have been advised to have surgery for removal of my left ovary which has an 8cm dermoid cyst. The doctor wants to do surgery which involves a four to six inch incision so he has easy access for removal and he can check other ovary and uterus. Will do a D & C at the time. I did not agree with removal of the uterus just because I’m “no longer needing it for holding a baby”. I told him I didn’t believe in removing healthy organs and they had a reason for being there like holding your bladder in place. I was told I have three months to have the surgery and I’m looking at the 8th or 9th or March due to family obligations.
Is there a less invasive surgery being done that
I should be seeking? This is 10 days recovery time and 6 to 8 weeks of modified activity there after. This is going to be difficult with a two year old and a four year old in my care.
History: 1970 D & C for fibroids and ovaian cyst of the same ovary.
1984 D & C for fibroids due to heavy bleeding
1993 menapause began
1995 biopsy of uterus for bleeding. Resolved with medication.
1994 biopsy of left breast for calcifications benign
Mild hypertension until 2000 prescribed medication.
Had biopsy of uterus, CT scan of colon and pelvic area, ultrasound, blood work. Healthy except for this.
All this to determine my problem.
Do not take hormome replacement due to breast.

Dear Syliva-
Based on the information in your email, I would strongly recommend that the ovary and dermoid be removed asap. There is no reason to remove your uterus.
Good Luck

June 30, 2005 – I was just diagnosed with a dermoid tumor via MRI. I have vacation planned for July 24th- can the surgery wait until I return the beginning of August or the earliest the dr. can perform the surgery would be July 13th. Thank you.

Dear Lisa-
You should be fine to wait a few extra weeks….your doctor cant treat you until July 13th anyway-a few more weeks wont hurt.
Have a nice vacation.