Day Surgery Procedures
Not every gynaecological procedure means a hospital stay. Day surgery — sometimes called outpatient or ambulatory surgery — lets you have your procedure done, returning home on the same day, with less disruption to your work and family life than traditional inpatient surgery. At Eden Women’s Health, Dr Sheri Lim personally guides you through every stage of that journey, from your first consultation to your post-procedure follow-up.
What Is Day Surgery?
Day surgery refers to a surgical or minor procedure performed under general, regional, or local anaesthesia, where you are admitted and discharged on the same day — no overnight hospital stay required. Many common gynaecological procedures, from diagnostic hysteroscopy to dilatation and curettage (D&C), are now routinely performed this way thanks to advances in minimally invasive technique and anaesthesia.
Day surgery is not "minor" in the sense of being less thorough — it simply means the procedure and your recovery from anaesthesia can be safely managed within a single day, so you can rest and recover in the comfort of your own home rather than in hospital.
Common Day Surgery Procedures We Offer
Hysteroscopy
a thin camera passed through the vagina and cervix to examine the inside of the uterus, used both to diagnose causes of abnormal bleeding and to remove polyps or small fibroids. See our Minimally Invasive Surgery page for how this procedure works.
Laparoscopy (keyhole surgery)
small incisions in the abdomen to diagnose or treat conditions such as endometriosis, ovarian cysts, and some fibroids. More complex cases will need admission overnight and up to a few days.
Dilatation and curettage (D&C)
gentle widening of the cervix to sample or remove tissue from the uterine lining, often used to investigate abnormal bleeding or manage a miscarriage.
Polypectomy
removal of uterine or cervical polyps, usually performed alongside a hysteroscopy.
Colposcopy with biopsy
a closer examination of the cervix following an abnormal Pap smear result, with a small tissue sample taken if needed.
Minor procedures under anaesthesia
including IUD insertion or removal where a patient is not able to tolerate this comfortably in-clinic.
Not every patient or condition is suited to day surgery — Dr Sheri Lim will discuss whether your specific procedure can be done on a day-surgery basis or whether an overnight stay is advisable.
What Is Day Surgery?
Before Your Procedure
- A consultation with Dr Sheri Lim to discuss your symptoms, review any scans or test results, and confirm the recommended procedure.
- Pre-operative instructions, including fasting requirements (typically from midnight the night before, or as advised) and which medications to pause or continue.
- Arranging for someone to accompany you home afterwards, as you won’t be able to drive yourself following sedation or anaesthesia.
On the Day
- Admission and a final check-in with the care team, who will walk you through what to expect.
- Your procedure, typically lasting between 30 minutes and 2 hours depending on what’s being done.
- A recovery and observation period as the anaesthesia wears off, before you’re cleared for discharge.
After You Go Home
- Most patients experience mild discomfort, cramping, or light bleeding/spotting for a few days — this is normal and expected.
- Rest is recommended for the first day or two, with a gradual return to light activities within 3–5 days for most procedures.
- A follow-up appointment to review your results and discuss next steps.
- Contact us promptly if you experience heavy bleeding, fever, severe pain, or any symptoms that concern you.
Benefits of Day Surgery
- No overnight hospital stay, so you recover in your own home from the day of your procedure.
- Faster return to daily life for most patients compared to traditional inpatient surgery.
- Lower overall cost in many cases compared to an inpatient admission, though this depends on the specific procedure.
- The same personalised care you’d expect from any consultation with Dr Sheri Lim — day surgery does not mean a different, less personal experience.
Is Day Surgery Right for Me?
Day surgery is suitable for a wide range of gynaecological procedures, but the right approach depends on your specific condition, medical history, and the complexity of the procedure. Dr Sheri Lim will recommend day surgery when it’s appropriate, or advise an overnight admission if closer monitoring is needed — for example, for more extensive laparoscopic surgery or if you have other health conditions that require it.
Why Choose Eden Women's Health for Your Day Surgery
Personal continuity of care
Dr Sheri Lim manages your consultation, your procedure, and your follow-up — not a rotating team of unfamiliar faces.
Over 20 years of experience
Dr Lim (MBBS London, PhD London, MRCOG, FRCOG (UK), FAMS (Singapore)) has performed a wide range of gynaecological day surgery procedures.
Clear, upfront guidance
you’ll know exactly what to expect before, during, and after your procedure, with no surprises.
A private, supportive setting
at a hospital where Dr Sheri Lim performs surgery at, with unhurried time to ask questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is day surgery in gynaecology?
Day surgery is a gynaecological procedure performed under anaesthesia where you are admitted and discharged the same day, without an overnight hospital stay. Common examples include hysteroscopy, laparoscopy, D&C, and polypectomy.
Will I be asleep during the procedure?
It depends on the procedure. Some are done under general anaesthesia (you’re fully asleep), while others use regional or local anaesthesia. Dr Sheri Lim will discuss the most appropriate option for your specific procedure.
Do I need someone to accompany me home?
Yes. Because anaesthesia and sedation affect your alertness and coordination, you’ll need someone to accompany you home and should avoid driving yourself for the rest of the day.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery varies by procedure. Many patients resume light activities within 3–5 days, though your doctor will give you guidance specific to your procedure and any physical restrictions during that time.
Is day surgery covered by MediSave or insurance?
Many gynaecological day surgery procedures are MediSave-claimable, subject to MOH guidelines and eligibility. Coverage under private insurance plans varies by provider and policy. Our clinic team can help you understand what applies to your specific procedure.
What if I need more than one procedure done at the same time?
In some cases, procedures such as a hysteroscopy and polypectomy can be combined into a single day-surgery visit. Dr Sheri Lim will advise whether this is appropriate for you.
Schedule An Appointment
Facing the idea of surgery — even a straightforward day procedure — can feel daunting. At Eden Women’s Health, Dr Sheri Lim will walk you through exactly what your procedure involves, answer your questions without rushing, and support you through recovery. Schedule a consultation today to discuss whether day surgery is the right option for you.