Two Women having Tea

Uterine Fibroid Embolization vs. Hysterectomy

UFE vs. Hysterectomy: Which Option is Best for You?

Women diagnosed with symptomatic uterine fibroids are usually told that a hysterectomy is the only permanent solution. According to the National Institute of Health, more than 200,000 hysterectomies occur each year for the treatment of fibroids. Hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that partially or fully removes the uterus and in some cases, the ovaries as well. This method is not ideal for many reasons including unnecessary removal of the uterus, increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and even the chances of experiencing an earlier menopause. 

Fortunately, recent medical advancements, more powerful imaging technology, and treatments such as uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) are making a huge difference in the lives of women dealing with fibroids. The American Fibroid Centers’ affiliated physicians are among the nation’s most experienced in performing UFE, a minimally invasive treatment option for fibroids that preserves the uterus. It involves fewer complications, quicker recovery times, and no hospital stay. Learn more about the differences between UFE and hysterectomy to help you determine the best treatment option for you.

UFE Hysterectomy infographic

Uterine Fibroid Embolization

One of the main differences between these two procedures is that UFE keeps the uterus intact, giving you the option to have a baby. UFE doesn’t require an overnight hospital stay and is performed with a light sedative rather than general anesthesia. Other benefits of UFE include:

  • Preserves the uterus 
  • Less invasive than surgery
  • Light or moderate sedation
  • No hospital stay 
  • Lower risk of complications
  • Full recovery in 1-2 weeks
  • Does not affect hormones

Hysterectomy

Hysterectomy differs from UFE in several ways. A hysterectomy is a more invasive surgical procedure that removes the uterus and may also remove the fallopian tubes and ovaries. After a hysterectomy, you will no longer have a period or be able to become pregnant. Other differences include:

  • Does not preserve the uterus
  • Invasive surgical procedure
  • Requires general anesthesia
  • Requires a hospital stay
  • Higher risk of complications
  • Full recovery in 6-8 weeks
  • Negatively affects hormones
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Schedule an appointment at your nearest affiliated American Fibroid Center.

UFE vs. Hysterectomy Procedure

A hysterectomy is a major surgery that removes the uterus to get relief from painful and larger fibroids. However, a hysterectomy may cause permanent changes to your health, including infertility and early menopause. There are three common approaches to a hysterectomy: vaginal, abdominal, and laparoscopic. The length of the procedure will depend on the size of your uterus and if the ovaries and fallopian tubes are being removed as well. In general, a hysterectomy takes about 1-3 hours, and you will be required to stay in the hospital for an average of 2.3 days. 

Uterine fibroid embolization is a minimally invasive-image guided treatment for fibroids. It is performed as a same-day procedure and usually takes less than an hour to complete. During UFE, an interventional radiologist makes a small incision in the groin within the femoral artery. A thin catheter is inserted, and tiny particles are injected into the small blood vessels feeding the fibroids. The particles cut off blood flow, causing the fibroids to shrink.

Fibroid Embolization Graphic
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UFE vs. Hysterectomy Recovery Time

Recovering from a hysterectomy takes time. Most patients stay in the hospital for one to two days after surgery. Some women stay in the hospital longer, depending on the type of hysterectomy surgery. Abdominal surgery can take four to six weeks to recover, and vaginal and laparoscopic surgery can take from three to four weeks. However, most women’s recovery from a hysterectomy is about 6-8 weeks in total. Common side effects of a hysterectomy include vaginal bleeding and discharge for 6 weeks, bowel movement changes, bladder function changes, and the onset of menopause. The removal of your uterus can also affect your hormones, causing emotional side effects, such as depression.

However, the recovery time for UFE is quicker than a hysterectomy. Most women can return to normal, daily activities within a week to 10 days after the procedure. Patients can return home the same day to start the recovery process. Women may experience some cramping similar to or worse than menstrual cramping, but that generally subsides within the first couple of days. There is also little to no risk for complications, such as infections, after your procedure. Women after their UFE recovery will experience relief from their symptoms, including pain, heavy bleeding, and bloating.

Which Fibroid Treatment is Right For You?

At American Fibroid Centers, we believe that women should be informed of all available fibroid treatments. If you’re deciding between UFE and hysterectomy, there are a few important factors to consider. Since fibroids are benign tumors and often asymptomatic, invasive fibroid surgery is rarely ever necessary. Women who desire future pregnancy or want to keep their uterus should not undergo a hysterectomy.

Uterine fibroid embolization is a safe, effective, and less invasive treatment option for fibroids that preserves the uterus and ovaries while reducing painful and uncomfortable symptoms. UFE offers several benefits over a hysterectomy and other major surgeries. Around 85-90% who undergo the procedure experience significant improvement in their symptoms and overall quality of life.

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Why Choose American Fibroid Centers for UFE?

American Fibroid Centers proudly offers uterine fibroid embolization at our fibroid treatment centers in NY and NJ. Our board-certified fibroid specialists are highly skilled in performing UFE using the most advanced tools and technology. They will work closely with you to ensure you clearly understand the procedure.

Each of our locations has individual patient rooms, cutting-edge operating rooms, and a separate recovery area. You can trust our team to deliver comprehensive and compassionate care before, during, and after your UFE procedure. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out. 

Our Fibroid Specialists

If you have symptoms of heavy bleeding or pelvic pain and pressure, you can trust our experts at American Fibroid Centers to help you find relief. Our affiliated fibroid specialists have years of experience and are well-renowned in the interventional radiology and vascular field. Patients can trust our team to determine if uterine fibroid embolization is right for them.

Our Fibroid Centers in NY & NJ

American Fibroid Centers has fibroid treatment centers throughout New York and New Jersey. Visit your nearest location for innovative fibroid treatment that is clinically proven to reduce the size and symptoms of your fibroids.

Brooklyn, NY
71 Carroll Street
Brooklyn, NY 11231
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Queens, NY
30-30 Northern Blvd
Suite 501
Queens, NY 11101
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Harlem, NY
505 East 116th Street
Suite 400
Harlem, NY 10029
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What Our Patients Are Saying

Learn more about our patients’ experiences at American Fibroid Centers.

Staff, Dr Sham super 10plus
Roger Mojer
Roger Mojer
17:20 02 Apr 25
Wonderful visit. He really listen
Cynthia J
Cynthia J
17:18 02 Apr 25
Great location.
Dr. Shams Such a amazing vascular Surgeon knows him a little while, he knows exactly what should be done to makes everything better, I’m very satisfied with my procedure and also his work ethic, the vascular office included everything inside is a 5 Star luxury, thank – you to all the staff . MoniqueV Francois.
MoniqueV Francois
MoniqueV Francois
18:02 24 Mar 25
Looking forward to my next appointment!
Dr shams is amazing along with his team they make you feel at home.
Angela Poueriet
Angela Poueriet
15:19 27 Feb 25
Excellent consultation. Answered all questions.
Nichelle Abney
Nichelle Abney
20:39 25 Feb 25
Excelente Dr y su equipo medico, información claro que lo que a uno como paciente está experimentado altamente recomendado
A ñ Ivan Yanez
A ñ Ivan Yanez
17:51 13 Feb 25
I Just Love The Doctors And All The People Friendly Staff. Everyone is Caring, Warm, Personable And Professional. They Are The Best🩷
Shirley Monroe
Shirley Monroe
02:00 04 Feb 25
Excellent work
Javier Acevedo
Javier Acevedo
16:34 17 Jan 25
I Like The Doctor and all his Staff, everyone in the Office where Very Professional
Dolphus Fudge
Dolphus Fudge
18:28 04 Dec 24
Love this Dr and staff. They are all kind courteous and professional with excellent medical care. I would highly recommend them to anyone in need.
Sybil Wilkins
Sybil Wilkins
13:05 05 Sep 24
Professional and friendly from my phone call to make an appointment to my visit I felt I was is safe hands not just a number. Everyone was knowledgeable and explained the procedures.
James Mullen
James Mullen
19:47 17 Aug 24
Dr David Mobley was kind right to the point. Explained & solved my issue. The whole staff is professional.
Lizette
Lizette
17:52 03 Aug 24
It’s personal
Ricot Charlot
Ricot Charlot
10:57 03 Jul 24
Sheer perfection. The care and expertise and teamwork are the best I have ever experienced. I’m a former nurse and I recognize and give a shout out to the best!!!!
Barbara Murray
Barbara Murray
16:22 02 May 24
First Impressions are lasting impressions! First, the staff are phenomenal! How is it possible that each and every one of them are incredibly kind, caring, professional, personable and treat you like you are THE most important person in the world!? Well, meet this team for an experience that will make you feel valued as a person, not just as a patient. In walks this amazing Doctor and now you understand why his team are the way they are! They regard each other with the utmost respect, and kindness, and they communicate with each other like family. And as a new patient, I had the honor and pleasure to experience excellence in patient care and concern. I am so very grateful to have found a Doctor who is in my opinion perfect with a team who are exceptional! I’m excited for my next visit, honestly! I write this with a great big Smile on my face!
CC
CC
14:57 24 Apr 24
EXCELLENT, EXCELLENT, EXCELLENT ALL AROUND!!! THANK YOU!!!
Marion Moore
Marion Moore
13:44 17 Apr 24
Excellent, professional, organized and efficient all best describes the service here.
Delsi Cunningham
Delsi Cunningham
17:28 05 Apr 24
Very nice and friendly staff.I was so nervous, they all made me feel relaxed and comfortable.They explained everything to me step by step.
Keith Dickens
Keith Dickens
13:10 02 Apr 24
Excelente servicio es lo mejor que me a pasado gracias a sus buenos tratamiento ya no tengo dolor
The staff are the best. Very elated,with the exceptional care,professionalism, and genuine concern, displayed by all the staff.
Constance Sidberry
Constance Sidberry
03:50 17 Mar 24
I felt very comfortable with him. Excellent bedside manner, proper teaching , and knowledgeable. I highly recommend him!
Jamel Jackson
Jamel Jackson
14:07 27 Feb 24
Yes it was a good place
Carmen Diaz
Carmen Diaz
14:22 20 Feb 24
The absolute BEST Dr!! Detailed, caring & kind! The best medical procedure I’ve ever had from consultation to post procedure, perfect! 10s all around 👏🏽👍🏽👍🏽 many thank yous🙏🏾
Josi W
Josi W
22:04 12 Jan 24
Is good to be with friendly and professional staff at doctor’s offices like this one.
Dr. Joseph Sham and the entire Team were very professional, knowledgeable, informative and had incredible patience with me by answering all my questions and concerns. Great Team…Thank you all! 👍
Marion
Marion
22:17 27 Dec 23
I was treated very well. The staff was very professional and made me feel comfortable. Looking forward to my next visit.
Stephen Lapinsky
Stephen Lapinsky
20:17 20 Dec 23
This experience was great I’m so happy with everything
stephanie suazo
stephanie suazo
22:53 13 Dec 23
I love this place stuff is helpful an they all were nice. I had a wonderful experience Dr Shams was great.
Victoria Pacheco
Victoria Pacheco
22:07 17 Nov 23
Professional services
Ricky Mo
Ricky Mo
22:14 15 Nov 23
I like the doctor they were kind of pretty thorough he says that he could help me he found out the filter in my abdomen from the surgery I had in 1996 has been clogging my blood flow for 25 years and that’s causing the swelling at every other doctor told me was lymphedema it was not lymphedema it caused the lymphedema because no other doctor took the time or care enough to find out the reason for my leg swelling this doctor was the only one who finally found out and he’s going to see if you could put a stent inside the filter to open it up and and stop my legs from swelling hopefully this will all go good it hasn’t happened yet but I’ll keep you posted thankful for this docto I just pray and hope that it works otherwise I like the doctor very much
Mitchell Dedios
Mitchell Dedios
21:01 27 Oct 23
Excellent service , good customer service and friendly staff. Thanks
Raysa Polanco
Raysa Polanco
20:54 27 Oct 23
You may likely have to wait. Avoid anxiety and frustration. Schedule extra time for the visit. Allow for personal attention to your care needs once in the examination room. Friendly, nice staff and doctor puts you at ease. Bottom line: worth the wait!
Sisle
Sisle
21:49 26 Oct 23
Excellent service and staff i’ll let you feel relaxing and comfortable
kadine campbell
kadine campbell
21:01 23 Oct 23
I was given good advice about my blood circulation
Emma Bb
Emma Bb
17:04 08 Oct 23
Dr. Shams office is amazing. Whitney and Angela were AMAZING. Great sense of humor. Staff is WONDERFUL.
Sara Correa
Sara Correa
21:13 18 Sep 23
Nice office, personnel friendly, & caring, good informative information concerning my care.
Loretta Johnson
Loretta Johnson
21:26 22 Aug 23
Really like this doctor, talks in your language, just over all regular nice person.
Linda Thoomey
Linda Thoomey
22:03 21 Jul 23
I’m very satisfied of my visit for the first time, everyone was concerned about me, and Dr David was very patient to listen to my long health stories, after that He gave me good explanation for my problem, that was great 👍
Claude Jean Pierre
Claude Jean Pierre
22:38 18 Jul 23
Follow up to a procedure. Dr Mobley and his staff are great and always helpful
DanLiza Diehl
DanLiza Diehl
21:25 10 Jul 23
David monkey,MD and the grupo are excellent very kind and helpful.i will return to them.the attention.its very satisfied.thank u ..
Luis Sarria
Luis Sarria
12:16 29 Jun 23
I had a good experience with my procedure and Dr. Mobley’s follow-up calls are great. I’ve never had a doctor who has been so concerned about following up after a procedure to see how I’m doing and if there are any post-procedure problems I may have experienced (which there aren’t). I’d highly recommend Dr. Mobley.
Hey Beej
Hey Beej
16:42 23 Jun 23
Dr Mobley was so helpful, informative and made me feel secure in making my future medical plan. Supportive and kind. Highly recommended.
Amanda L Browder
Amanda L Browder
15:57 23 Jun 23
Doctor was very thorough. Explaining what the procedure is all about. Tell me what I could realistically expect. Couldn’t have asked for a better consultation. Highly recommended if you have a prostate issue
John Buric
John Buric
16:26 15 Jun 23
I was very pleased and satisfied on how Dr. David Mobley examined me and explained everything on what I need to know regarding my condition. He’s very professional and knowledgeable in all aspects of his profession. I would highly recommend him to my other friends!
Celine Parcon
Celine Parcon
23:16 07 Jun 23
Dr Shams was very attentive and explained everything in detail. The staff was very nice, the staff/nurse were all so very helpful, It was a Monday morning and I didn’t expect such happy staff.
Stacy Lebeau
Stacy Lebeau
21:22 06 Jun 23
He puts his patients before himself, returning calls and e-mails quickly. Not only is he kind and considerate, he is an excellent physician. I had to have a procedure that requires me to be awake, and he talked me through it and kept me at ease. If I could give him more stars, I would.
Super friendly, tentative, once in the procedure rm the sx staff made you feel comfortable, easy,+ answered all questions. David mobley, MD answered all my questions, very informative, caring. I felt confident in his care
Thais Bini
Thais Bini
21:22 30 May 23
Great doctor. Everyone is so kind and caring. Great place to go
Joan Jurica
Joan Jurica
14:46 30 May 23
Good service!
Veronika Shopina
Veronika Shopina
21:09 24 May 23
There is a friendly atmosphere, fast medical attention and an advanced medical equipment !!!The Staff is very knowledgeable and the best care possibly !!!100 % Satisfied !!!
Cruz Figueroa
Cruz Figueroa
03:06 08 May 23
Whole staff was very friendly and professional. I feel confident that I came to the right place for treatment.
Rudy Padilla
Rudy Padilla
02:08 13 Apr 23
The best in Astoria I recommend Dr mobley and staff 100 percent
michaela1951
michaela1951
21:25 30 Mar 23
Knowledgeable , experienced, great bed side manners
mohamed hamed
mohamed hamed
10:09 30 Mar 23
I am pleased w/my experience @ endovascular. I hope they can save my foot.
Margo A Williams
Margo A Williams
19:19 29 Mar 23
This has been the best medical experience I’ve had in over thirty years. I was nervous to have a procedure after only knowing about my condition a year ago. They made this process so easy for me that I’m in shock that I had no pain, no discomfort thanks to an excellent doctor and professional staff! Thank you all and best of luck to your practice.
Stacey Marius
Stacey Marius
14:16 29 Mar 23
The doctor was very nice and professional. He explained the tests that I need and why I need them.
Judith AndersonNeal
Judith AndersonNeal
22:12 27 Mar 23
This was the best experience I have had in such a long time and I have had quite a few procedures in the past both in patient and out including the procedure I was currently present for. No other surgeon has been so kind, transparent, and gentle. Not only did he personally come out beforehand to provide me with education on my procedure, but he talked me through every step of the way and made me feel so comfortable and relaxed. Not to mention his amazing staff! Despite being extremely nervous they kept me smiling and laughing throughout the whole process. 10/10 would recommend. Thank you so much guys!!
Riah L.
Riah L.
13:49 22 Mar 23
Excellent bedside manners and the procedure was a breeze.
sen-pei hsia
sen-pei hsia
18:26 20 Mar 23
Los mejores/ the best💖🙏
Ruthy Ochoa
Ruthy Ochoa
04:17 03 Mar 23
Excellent, Patience, don’t Rush you to be finished. The Doctor explains everything and answers your questions. I would Recommend Dr.Sham service anytime, they are. Great!
Debra Farmer
Debra Farmer
00:16 01 Mar 23
I went with my mom who just had a hip surgery. The whole team was very caring, nice and very professional. I did appreciate that the surgeon took the time to explain to me what was wrong with my mom’s arm and what he did to fix it.
mouna khalyat
mouna khalyat
14:37 24 Feb 23
Very good and very responsive.
James Young
James Young
19:33 22 Feb 23
Although I didn’t meet with the doctor, the receptionist, assistant and nurse were great.
Theresa Gaines
Theresa Gaines
13:25 13 Feb 23
Every thing and the process are being done properly ..Terissa you are very Carey ..thank you so much every body are very polite and very professional.. Thank you so much to Dr.Mobley..God blessed you all .🙏🙏🙏👍
Remigio Ruda
Remigio Ruda
03:28 31 Jan 23
Very knowledgeable, personable and professional. I came to Dr. Mobley to correct another surgeons work and I was pleased with the outcome. There is a Hispanic woman that runs things in the O.R.She is great! The whole staff is wonderful and caring.Highly recommend
Lakesha Kingdom
Lakesha Kingdom
15:57 17 Jan 23
I had a wonderful PA take care of me, & the nurses were very sweet. I was happy with my visit
Aurora Anello
Aurora Anello
19:20 10 Jan 23
Everything always goes well.staff are very caring.
Lillian Rodriguez
Lillian Rodriguez
19:00 11 Dec 22
Excellent Doctor he explains the procedure process so that it is understandable and comfortable for the patient!
T. J.
T. J.
14:48 06 Dec 21
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Get to know more about the symptoms, causes, treatment, and care of Uterine Fibroids.

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