-min.png)
An ovarian dermoid cyst, also known as a mature cystic teratoma, is a type of benign ovarian germ cell tumor. These cysts are unique as they contain fully mature tissue, such as skin, hair, and teeth.
While not cancerous, they can cause complications and often require medical evaluation and possible removal.
Book Your Consultation
An ovarian dermoid cyst is a fluid-filled sac that includes tissue from your hair, skin, teeth, or other body parts.
A fluid-filled sac that includes tissue from your hair, skin, teeth, or other body parts.
Unlike most ovarian cysts, dermoid cysts do not form in response to your menstrual cycle.
They develop when fully formed tissue collects in an unusual location, such as your ovaries.
They are the most prevalent type of benign ovarian germ cell tumor.
These cysts form before birth when cells that should develop into skin, hair, or other tissues grow atypically within the ovaries. The exact cause of this atypical growth is unknown. Dermoid cysts consist of tissues derived from two or three embryonic germ layers, which are groups of cells that differentiate to form all of the body’s organs and tissues.
| Germ layer | Position in the embryo | Tissue it normally forms |
|---|---|---|
| Ectoderm | The outermost embryonic layer | Skin, hair, nerve tissue and teeth |
| Mesoderm | The middle embryonic layer | Fat, muscle, cartilage and bone |
| Endoderm | The innermost embryonic layer | Glandular and respiratory tissue |
Dermoid cysts result from an abnormal cell differentiation process. This is why ovarian dermoid cysts contain tissues such as hair, teeth, fat, or bone, which are not typically found in the ovary.
Dermoid cysts are far more common than most women expect, and the majority are found by accident rather than because of symptoms.
Most ovarian dermoid cysts do not cause symptoms unless they are large. When symptoms do appear, they tend to build slowly over months rather than suddenly. Symptoms can include:
Sudden severe pain is the one symptom that should never be waited out. It can signal torsion or rupture, both of which need same-day assessment.
Ovarian dermoid cysts can cause complications if they grow too large. Potential issues include:
The cyst can grow so large that it causes the ovary to twist, potentially damaging the ovary or causing it to die.
Torsion presents as sudden, severe pain on one side, often with nausea and vomiting. It is a surgical emergency — the sooner the ovary is untwisted, the more likely it is to be saved.
The cyst can burst, leaking contents into the abdominal cavity, which can sometimes lead to infection and require emergency medical attention.
Because a dermoid contains sebaceous material, spillage can irritate the lining of the abdomen. This is precisely why the cyst is removed inside a retrieval bag during surgery.
Although these cysts become cancerous in less than 2% of cases, the risk increases if you are over 45, your tumor is rapidly growing, or it has a diameter greater than 10 centimeters.
These three factors are exactly what your gynaecologist weighs when deciding whether a cyst can be watched or should come out.
Ask for the size in centimetres and the exact position to be recorded in your report. Those two figures decide whether the cyst is watched or removed, and they give a baseline to compare the next scan against.
Not all ovarian dermoid cysts require removal. However, removal is recommended if the cyst is larger than 5 centimeters, causing symptoms, or has the potential to become malignant.
| Finding | Usual advice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Under 5 cm, no symptoms | Usually observed | A repeat scan in six to twelve months to check for growth |
| Over 5 cm | Removal recommended | Larger cysts are more likely to twist or rupture |
| Causing symptoms at any size | Removal recommended | Pain, pressure or bowel and bladder symptoms |
| Suspicious features on imaging | Removal recommended | Rapid growth, size over 10 cm, or age above 45 |
Unlike functional ovarian cysts, a dermoid will not resolve on its own. Watching it is a reasonable choice when it is small and quiet, but it is watching rather than waiting for it to disappear.
The aim is always to remove the cyst while keeping as much healthy ovarian tissue as possible.
Removes the cyst while preserving the ovary and fertility. The cyst is carefully peeled away from healthy ovarian tissue, which is then reconstructed. This is the operation of choice for younger women and anyone hoping to conceive.
Removes the entire ovary if necessary. This is considered when the cyst has destroyed the ovarian tissue, when there is concern about malignancy, or in women who have completed their family and are past the reproductive years.
Most cysts are removed using laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgery. In cases of large cysts, cysts on both ovaries, or potential malignancy, a more extensive surgery called laparotomy may be performed.
| Laparoscopy (keyhole) | Laparotomy (open) | |
|---|---|---|
| Incisions | Two to three cuts of 5 to 10 mm | One larger cut across the lower abdomen |
| Hospital stay | Usually 24 to 48 hours | Three to five days |
| Return to work | About two weeks | Four to six weeks |
| Scarring | Minimal, and fades over time | A visible scar low on the abdomen |
| When it is used | Most dermoid cysts | Large cysts, cysts on both ovaries, or potential malignancy |
In keyhole surgery the cyst is placed inside a retrieval bag before it is opened, so none of its contents reach the abdominal cavity. This single step is what prevents the chemical irritation that spillage would otherwise cause.
Recovery from a laparoscopic cystectomy is quick, and most women are surprised by how little the operation interrupts their routine.
For most women a dermoid cyst has no bearing on their ability to conceive, provided the ovary is preserved when it is removed.
Dr. Deepti Asthana is a highly distinguished Obstetrician, Gynecologist, and minimally invasive surgeon with over 14 years of clinical experience. She holds an MBBS from KGMC, Lucknow, and an MS from SMS Medical College, Jaipur. Currently, she serves as a Consultant at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon, and is the esteemed Director of Kalosa Aesthetics.
A highly specialized area of her advanced gynecological practice is the precise diagnosis and Ovarian Dermoid Cyst Treatment. Dermoid cysts are unique, slow-growing ovarian tumors that require prompt medical attention. If left unmanaged, they can lead to acute complications such as severe pelvic pain, ovarian torsion, or even rupture. Because these cysts typically do not resolve with medication alone, expert surgical Ovarian Dermoid Cyst Treatment is essential to prevent long-term reproductive issues.
Specialized fellowship training in laparoscopic surgery, Dr. Asthana excels in performing advanced, minimally invasive Ovarian Dermoid Cyst Treatment. Her surgical approach focuses on the safe, complete removal of the cyst while meticulously preserving the surrounding healthy ovarian tissue, which is vital for protecting a woman’s future fertility. From fertility-preserving surgeries to pioneering cosmetic gynecology, Dr. Asthana provides compassionate, world-class care for complete female wellness.
Recognising that patient care, a gentle bedside manner and precise clinical outcomes come first, Dr Deepti Asthana takes pride in being a compassionate doctor who always puts her patients’ needs first.
View AllI have been consulting Dr. Deepti since the past 3 years. Starting as my gynaecologist, treating my PMOS to guiding me into motherhood and finally, being my Obstetrician to deliver my twin babies via C-section. She have been an unwavering support throughout the journey, and all this could not have been possible without her. She has a very professional, knowledgeable, non-judgmental and empathetic approach towards all her patients, and makes you feel comfortable and heard. I can definitely recommend her to others with my eyes closed.
Dr Deepti Asthana is a wonderful doctor and I feel really fortunate to have found her. She has a pleasant, positive and reassuring manner. She listened to my concerns as a patient and factored them in her treatment plan. My surgery went off seamlessly and the recovery is also very good. Her coordinator Rhea was also very helpful.
Dr Deepti Asthana answers the questions patients ask most often in the clinic.
Dr. Deepti Asthana, from Kalosa Gynae, leading gynecologist, explains everything you need to know about Ovarian Cysts — from common signs and symptoms to when you should consult a doctor.
Are you struggling with PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) and looking for ways to manage it effectively. PCOD is a common condition that affects many women, but with the right information and lifestyle changes, it can be managed effectively.
a common but often misunderstood condition affecting many women. But what exactly is an ovarian cyst? Join us as we delve into the definition, causes, symptoms, and potential complications of ovarian cysts.
Short expert insights on women’s health, ovarian cysts and gynecological treatments.
An ovarian dermoid cyst, also known as a mature cystic teratoma, is a type of benign ovarian germ cell tumor. These cysts are unique as they contain fully mature tissue, such as skin, hair, and teeth. They develop when fully formed tissue collects in an unusual location, such as your ovaries.
No. Dermoid cysts are benign. They become cancerous in less than 2% of cases, and that risk increases if you are over 45, the tumour is rapidly growing, or it has a diameter greater than 10 centimeters.
Not all ovarian dermoid cysts require removal. However, removal is recommended if the cyst is larger than 5 centimeters, is causing symptoms, or has the potential to become malignant. Smaller cysts without symptoms are usually monitored with a repeat scan.
They are often discovered during routine imaging procedures, such as abdominal or transvaginal ultrasounds. They have a distinctive appearance on ultrasound, making them easy to identify. Occasionally an MRI may be used for further analysis.
In most cases, no. An ovarian cystectomy removes the cyst while preserving the ovary and fertility. Removing the whole ovary is only considered when the ovarian tissue has been destroyed, when there is a concern about malignancy, or in women past the reproductive years.
Most cysts are removed using laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgery. In cases of large cysts, cysts on both ovaries, or potential malignancy, a more extensive surgery called laparotomy may be performed.
A dermoid cyst does not usually affect fertility on its own, since it grows within one ovary and the other ovary continues to work normally. Preserving ovarian tissue during surgery is what protects your ovarian reserve for the future.
They are the most common type of benign ovarian tumor found during pregnancy. Small cysts are monitored with scans and surgery is deferred until after delivery. If surgery is unavoidable, the second trimester is the safest time.
Recurrence in the same ovary is uncommon after a complete cystectomy. A new cyst can form in the other ovary, which is one reason a follow-up scan is advised after surgery.
Sudden severe pain on one side of the lower abdomen, especially with nausea and vomiting, may indicate ovarian torsion or rupture and needs to be assessed immediately rather than waiting for a scheduled appointment.