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Endometrioma removal vs draining: what’s the difference?

Topic:Surgery
Affected areas:pelvicabdominalsystemic

Draining an endometrioma (aspiration) removes the fluid but leaves the cyst wall behind, which is why symptoms and the cyst itself often come back. In contrast, an ovarian cystectomy is designed to peel the endometrioma capsule off the ovary and remove that lining, which typically offers a more durable result.


Which approach makes sense depends on factors like your pain, fertility goals and timing, cyst size and imaging features, and any prior ovarian surgery. Our team can review your history and imaging to help you weigh recurrence risk and ovarian preservation, and decide on the most appropriate surgical plan for your situation.

An illustration of a woman getting robotic excision surgery.

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Dr. Steven Vasilev delivers best-in-class endometriosis guidance and a personalized treatment plan—built on evidence and your unique biology.


Led by Steven Vasilev, MD—an internationally recognized endometriosis specialist & MIGS surgeon—Lotus Endometriosis Institute is virtual-forward, with many patients traveling nationally for care. Clinical evaluation and surgical treatment are provided in California.

Santa Monica, CA

2121 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90404

Operating Hours

8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Monday - Friday

Arroyo Grande, CA

154 Traffic Way, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420