Key takeaways

Hysteroscopic myomectomy removes fibroids inside the uterine cavity through the cervix, with no abdominal incisions. It treats submucosal fibroids (FIGO types 0, 1, and 2), a common cause of heavy bleeding and difficulty getting pregnant. Most patients go home the same day and return to normal activities within a few days. Peyman Banooni, MD, performs hysteroscopic myomectomy for patients in Beverly Hills and across Los Angeles.

Even a small fibroid can cause big problems if it grows into the inside of the uterus. These submucosal fibroids are a frequent cause of very heavy periods, and they can make it harder to get pregnant.

The good news is that they can usually be removed without any incisions. Beverly Hills gynecologic surgeon Peyman Banooni, MD, performs hysteroscopic myomectomy, a same-day procedure done entirely through the cervix.

What is a hysteroscopic myomectomy?

A hysteroscope is a thin camera passed through the vagina and cervix into the uterus. The surgeon fills the uterus with fluid to see clearly, then uses a small instrument to shave the fibroid into pieces and remove them through the cervix.

Because nothing is cut on the abdomen, there are no visible scars, and recovery is much faster than with abdominal surgery.

Which fibroids can be treated this way?

Doctors classify fibroids with the FIGO system. Hysteroscopic myomectomy is designed for fibroids in or touching the uterine cavity:

FIGO typeLocationHysteroscopic removal
Type 0Entirely inside the cavity, often on a stalkUsually removed in one procedure
Type 1Mostly inside the cavity (more than half)Usually removed in one procedure
Type 2Mostly in the wall (half or more), bulging into the cavityPossible; larger ones may need two sessions
Types 3–8In the wall or on the outer surfaceNot suitable; myomectomy through the abdomen or other options

To confirm the type and size, Dr. Banooni may use saline-infusion sonography, an office hysteroscopy, or MRI before the procedure.

Who is a good candidate?

  • People with heavy or prolonged periods caused by a submucosal fibroid
  • People with iron-deficiency anemia from fibroid bleeding
  • People having trouble getting pregnant, or with recurrent miscarriage, when a fibroid distorts the cavity
  • Anyone who wants fibroid treatment with no incisions and a quick recovery

Hysteroscopic myomectomy and fertility

Fibroids that bulge into the cavity can interfere with an embryo implanting. Removing them is a common step for people trying to conceive, including those preparing for IVF.

Because the uterine wall isn’t opened from the outside, many patients can still plan a vaginal birth later. Your surgeon will advise you based on how deep the fibroid was. Most patients are cleared to try for pregnancy within a few weeks to a few months.

What to expect

  • Before the procedure: Imaging confirms the fibroid’s size and location. If you’re anemic or the fibroid is large, you may take iron or a short course of medication beforehand.
  • During the procedure: It’s done under anesthesia and often takes under an hour. Dr. Banooni removes the fibroid through the cervix under direct view.
  • Afterward: Most patients go home the same day. Light cramping and spotting for a few days are normal. Many return to work within 1–3 days.
  • Follow-up: A post-procedure visit checks your recovery, and your next periods are often noticeably lighter.

Risks

Hysteroscopic myomectomy is generally very safe. Uncommon risks include bleeding, infection, absorption of too much fluid, a small hole in the uterine wall, and scar tissue inside the uterus. Dr. Banooni monitors fluid closely during the procedure and will review these risks with you.

As with any fibroid treatment, new fibroids can develop over time, so follow-up care matters.

Hysteroscopic myomectomy with Dr. Banooni

Peyman Banooni, MD, is a board-certified OB-GYN and gynecologic surgeon in Beverly Hills. He performs hysteroscopic myomectomy for patients from Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Santa Monica, Burbank, and throughout Los Angeles. For fibroids that can’t be reached through the cervix, he also offers mini-laparotomy myomectomy.

Book a consultation

Schedule a consultation with Dr. Peyman Banooni in Beverly Hills. Call (310) 652-9347 or request a consultation online.

Frequently asked questions

Is hysteroscopic myomectomy painful?

It’s done under anesthesia, so you won’t feel the procedure. Afterward, most people have mild cramping for a day or two, similar to a period.

How long does it take to recover from a hysteroscopic myomectomy?

Most patients go home the same day and return to normal activities within 1–3 days.

Can a hysteroscopic myomectomy improve fertility?

Removing a fibroid that distorts the uterine cavity can improve the chances of pregnancy and is often recommended before IVF.

Will I have scars?

No. The procedure is done entirely through the cervix, with no abdominal incisions.

Who performs hysteroscopic myomectomy in Los Angeles?

Peyman Banooni, MD, a board-certified OB-GYN and gynecologic surgeon in Beverly Hills, performs hysteroscopic myomectomy for patients across Los Angeles.

Related articles

Sources

  • Stewart EA, Laughlin-Tommaso SK. Uterine Fibroids. New England Journal of Medicine 2024;391:1721–33.
  • American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Management of Symptomatic Uterine Leiomyomas. Practice Bulletin No. 228, 2021.
  • Munro MG, et al. FIGO classification system (PALM-COEIN) for causes of abnormal uterine bleeding. International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics 2011;113:3–13.

This article is for general education and is not medical advice. Talk with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and treatment options.