Gynecologist and Gynecologic Surgeon in Katy, Serving Houston
When a gynecologic problem needs a procedure, minimally invasive surgery can mean smaller incisions, less pain and a faster return to daily life.
Dr. Solafa Elshatanoufy is a gynecologist and gynecologic surgeon who is board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology, in advanced minimally invasive gynecology, and in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery. Women from Katy and across Houston are seen at our Katy office for conditions that may need surgery, such as fibroids, endometriosis, ovarian cysts, abnormal bleeding and prolapse. Surgery is recommended only when other options are not enough.
Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery
Many gynecologic operations that once required a large abdominal incision can now be done through the vagina or through a few small incisions. These approaches generally lead to less pain, a shorter hospital stay and a quicker recovery.
- Hysteroscopy: a thin camera passed through the cervix to see and treat the inside of the uterus, with no incisions.
- Laparoscopy: small incisions in the abdomen for a camera and instruments, sometimes called pelviscopy.
- Single-incision approaches: for selected patients, using one small incision at the navel.
- Vaginal surgery: procedures performed entirely through the vagina, common for hysterectomy and prolapse repair.
The best approach depends on your condition, the size of the uterus, previous surgeries and your overall health.
Conditions That May Need Surgery
Most of these conditions are treated first with medication or other non-surgical options.
Uterine conditions
- Uterine fibroids
- Endometrial polyps
- Abnormal or heavy bleeding
- Adenomyosis
- Precancerous changes of the uterine lining
Ovarian and pelvic conditions
- Endometriosis
- Ovarian cysts
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Stress urinary incontinence
- Vaginal fistula
When Is Surgery the Right Choice?
Surgery may be recommended when:
- Medication has not controlled bleeding or pain
- A cyst, polyp or fibroid needs to be removed or examined
- Prolapse or incontinence is bothersome and you prefer a lasting solution
- A biopsy shows precancerous changes
You will always have time to ask questions and consider alternatives. A second opinion is welcome.
Seek emergency care for sudden severe pelvic pain, heavy bleeding with dizziness or fainting, or fever with pelvic pain. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Meet Dr. Solafa Elshatanoufy
Dr. Solafa Elshatanoufy holds three board certifications: obstetrics and gynecology, advanced minimally invasive gynecology, and female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery. She completed her residency and fellowship at Wayne State University and is affiliated with Memorial Hermann Northwest Hospital. Her surgical training covers both gynecologic and pelvic floor surgery, so related problems can often be addressed in a single plan.
Preparing for Surgery
- A consultation to confirm the diagnosis and review all options
- Imaging and lab tests as needed
- A discussion of the planned approach, expected recovery, risks and alternatives
- Review of your medications, including blood thinners and supplements
- Clear instructions for the days before and after your procedure
Procedures We Discuss
The right procedure depends on your condition and goals, including whether you want to keep your uterus.
Uterus-preserving procedures
- Hysteroscopic polyp and fibroid removal
- Laparoscopic myomectomy
- Endometrial ablation for heavy bleeding
- Laparoscopic removal of endometriosis and ovarian cysts
Hysterectomy and reconstruction
- Minimally invasive hysterectomy (laparoscopic or vaginal)
- Pelvic reconstructive surgery for prolapse
- Mid-urethral sling for stress incontinence
- Fistula repair
All surgery carries risks such as bleeding, infection and injury to nearby organs, which will be reviewed with you before any decision.
Recovery
Many minimally invasive procedures are outpatient or involve a short hospital stay. Recovery after hysteroscopy is usually a few days. After laparoscopic or vaginal hysterectomy, most women return to light activity within two weeks and to full activity in about six weeks. Your recovery plan is tailored to your procedure and your health.
Gynecologic Surgery Care Near Houston
Three board certifications and a conservative, minimally invasive approach.
- Board-certified OB/GYN
- Board-certified in advanced minimally invasive gynecology
- Board-certified urogynecologist
- Uterus-preserving options discussed
- Affiliated with Memorial Hermann Northwest Hospital
- Second opinions welcome
What Our Patients Say
Patients share their experience of care at our Katy office. Individual results vary.
Dr. Elshatanoufy is simply wonderful! She took the time to thoroughly explain my extensive lab results and other tests, answered all of my questions, and gave me the confidence and peace of mind I needed before moving forward with the procedure.
The entire staff was also incredibly attentive, courteous, and welcoming throughout my visit. I truly loved my experience there and felt very well cared for. I definitely trust Dr. Elshatanoufy and her team with my health needs and would highly recommend them!
I can’t say enough good things about Dr. Solafa. She is warm, attentive, and incredibly compassionate. She takes her time during appointments, listens carefully to concerns, and never makes you feel rushed. Her bedside manner is truly wonderful, and she creates such a comfortable and reassuring environment. You can tell she genuinely cares about her patients. Very sweet, professional, and knowledgeable. I’m so grateful to have found her for my mom’s treatment.
Dr. Elshatanoufy was truly lovely to work with. I’ve had a hard time pinning down my symptoms but she was willing to hear my concerns and do a thorough examination to rule out more serious conditions. She was thorough, efficient, patient, gentle, and kind during the pelvic examination, which is a vulnerable position for women. I felt that she genuinely cared for my wellbeing. After receiving less than ideal care at a neighboring practice in Katy, I am really grateful to Dr. E for validating my concerns, making me feel heard, and reassured with my next steps.
The waiting room was pretty busy and cold when I went. Suggest bringing headphones and some long sleeves!
My experience perfection. From check in to check out. Dia was my MA and she was so professional and a pleasure. She answered all my questions and made sure I was taken care of. Dr Elshatanoufy was AWESOME! Great bedside manner and make my exam comfortable. Then I had the pleasure to check out with Elizabeth and she was just as pleasant. I can tell this is an office that cares greatly for their patients!
This was my first visit at Katy Women’s Pelvic Health. It was a great experience, from checking in with a very helpful and friendly receptionist to being seeing by Nida the office manager, Oyin the NP and Dr. E. Everyone was very friendly, professional, and made the visit very comfortable. They thoroughly explained all the finding and the options for treatment. I highly recommend this practice.
Dr E. and her whole staff are gems! They have the best customer service, energy, and I noticed they are great with all other patients besides me. Dr E. really listens to your problems, offers solutions and she explains things so well. You can tell she loves what she does and does a wonderful job at it. I definitely recommend her practice to anyone seeking top notch, high quality care.
Just the kindest people! I was so at ease with the whole experience!! Very knowledgeable, explained everything and answered all my questions!!! Wish I had found her earlier in my life!!
Mi nombre es Nidia, I am a patient at Katy Women’s Pelvic Health and had my surgery less than 15 days ago. This clinic is highly recommended for its excellent medical and humane care. This type of care is provided by the entire staff, in addition to the doctor, including the receptionist, nurses, and health technicians. The surgeon is Solafa Elshatanoufy, who has more than 20 years of experience in women’s pelvic health, offering modern, effective, and minimally invasive treatments in many cases. She is a compassionate and empathetic person who makes you feel safe, listened to, and cared for by expert and professional hands. The environment is clean and welcoming, and thanks to its modernity, I felt almost no discomfort or pain during the procedures, and everything was quick.
One of the best places to see OBGYN. My mom sees Dr. Solafa. The staffs, nurses, Doctors and the services they provide are very professional and welcoming. Highly recommended.
Top-tier doctor and extremely skilled surgeon, I could not have been more blessed to have her taking care of me. Thank you, Dr. E!
Dr. E is a super great Doctor who listens attentively and collaborates closely with patients throughout every step of the process. Additionally, the office staff was professional, courteous, and efficient.
Dr. E is so kind and professional. She listened to all my concerns and had an answer to all my questions. She made sure I was happy with my medications. Her staff is so helpful and make the visit go quickly and efficiently. I am so glad I found Dr E!
Dr. E has the best bedside manner compared to all the doctors I have seen before. She is so knowledgeable and truly cares for her patients and wants the best for everyone. I feel incredibly lucky to find a doctor willing to always spare time for patients. She is amazing and 1000% worth the wait!!!!
Frequently Asked Questions About Gynecologic Surgery
What is minimally invasive gynecologic surgery?
It refers to procedures done through the vagina or through small abdominal incisions instead of one large incision. It usually means less pain and faster recovery.
Do I need a hysterectomy for fibroids or heavy bleeding?
Often not. Medication, hysteroscopic procedures, myomectomy and endometrial ablation are alternatives for many women.
Will a hysterectomy cause menopause?
Not if the ovaries are kept. Removing the uterus alone stops periods but does not cause menopause. Removing both ovaries does.
How long will I be in the hospital?
Many procedures are outpatient. Some require an overnight stay. Your plan will be discussed before surgery.
Can I get a second opinion?
Yes. We welcome second-opinion consultations for women who have been advised to have surgery.
Do you have an office in Houston?
Our only office is in Katy at 410 W Grand Pkwy S, Suite 320. Women from across Houston are seen there.
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Consultations and follow-up visits take place at our Katy office at 410 W Grand Pkwy S, Suite 320, convenient to I-10 and the Grand Parkway. Surgery is performed at an affiliated hospital. We welcome new patients from Katy, West Houston, Fulshear, Richmond, Sugar Land and Cypress.
Discuss Your Options With a Gynecologic Surgeon
Learn every option, including those that avoid surgery. Schedule a consultation at our Katy office.
410 W Grand Pkwy S, Suite 320, Katy, TX 77494