Vaginal rejuvenation
Introduction:
Vaginal rejuvenation usually combines vaginoplasty (“tightening” of the vagina) and/or labiaplasty or vulvaplasty (reshaping of the vulva or labia, the outer and inner lips of the vagina). For individuals who desire recontouring after childbirth, significant weight loss, aging or injury to genital structures, vaginal rejuvenation offers increased self-confidence and comfort.
Considerations:
Pros
Your vagina and surrounding muscles will return to nearly the tightness you had in your youth or before pregnancies.
A recontoured, trim vagina may boost your self-confidence.
You may find that wearing clothing, such as bikini bottoms or panties, is enhanced by your sleek new shape.
Cons
Bladder injury, hemorrhage and infection might occur.
Your partner and you may need some time to adjust to the new sensations resulting from your tightened vaginal walls.
Am I a good candidate Vaginal rejuvenation?
– Your vaginal structures sag and have become more lax due to aging, weight loss or pregnancies.
– You have discomfort from scarring as a result of previous genital surgeries.
– You have stress urinary incontinence and wish to combine a “vaginal lift” with a corrective procedure.
– You desire a sleeker, more refined contour to your labia and vulva.
If you are in good general health, have a positive attitude and realistic expectations, you are most likely a good candidate for this procedure.
About Your Procedure:
How is a vaginal rejuvenation procedure performed?
A pudendal block is given to provide 18 to 24 hours of postoperative pain control.
Redundant (extra) tissue will be removed and the incisions will be sutured inside the vagina.
For a labiaplasty, the desired labial/vulval contours are outlined with a surgical marker and sutures are then placed. Excess tissue removed beyond the desired contour, then skin staples are placed to align the edges of the labia, absorbable sutures are used and the staples are removed.
What will my vaginal rejuvenation incisions and scars be like?
For the vaginoplasty, the incisions are made to the mucosal walls inside the vagina. For a labiaplasty, the incisions are made to the labia minora or majora so that excess tissue can be removed.
Preparing For Your Procedure:
In advance of your procedure, your surgeon will ask you to:
– Stop smoking before undergoing surgery to promote better healing.
– Avoid taking aspirin, certain anti-inflammatory drugs and some herbal medications that can cause increased bleeding.
– Regardless of the type of surgery to be performed, hydration is very important before and after surgery for safe recovery.
Aftercare And Recovery
Immediately after your vaginal rejuvenation
There may be some bruising and swelling in the initial postoperative period. In addition, you may experience minor discomfort, which can be controlled by medication. Bed rest the day of surgery is recommended and you may return to work within five to seven days, depending on your activity level. You should refrain from engaging in sexual intercourse for one month.
Recovery time frame after vaginal rejuvenation
It is vitally important that you follow all patient care instructions provided by your surgeon. This will include information about wearing compression garments, care of your drains, taking an antibiotic if prescribed and the level and type of activity that is safe. Your surgeon will also provide detailed instructions about the normal symptoms you will experience and any potential signs of complications. It is important to realize that the amount of time it takes for recovery varies greatly among individuals.
How Long Will My Results Last?
The results of a vaginal rejuvenation procedure are intended to be permanent, but significant weight gain or a subsequent pregnancy can alter the results.
Limitations And Risks:
All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Some of the potential complications of all surgeries are:
– Adverse reaction to anesthesia
– Hematoma or seroma (an accumulation of blood or fluid under the skin that may require removal)
– Infection and bleeding
– Changes in sensation
– Scarring
– Allergic reactions
– Damage to underlying structures
– Unsatisfactory results that may necessitate additional procedures