Vaginoplasty is a procedure that is used to either construct or reconstruct the vaginal area. This procedure is done for health reasons, as well as for cosmetic purposes and an increase in sexual satisfaction. Vaginoplasty can also be referred to as a vaginal rejuvenation procedure. This genital procedure offers many benefits for the patient, from tightening, which helps with lax muscles in the vagina, to cosmetic techniques for the skin to give you back your self-confidence.
What is Vaginoplasty?
Vaginoplasty is a vaginal reconstruction procedure that is done to change the appearance and tightness of the vagina. There are several different types of vaginoplasty that are performed, and these are done so for different reasons. Elective vaginoplasty, gender reassignment surgery, and vaginoplasty to treat medical conditions are all different types of procedures that can treat conditions, make sex more pleasurable, and make the individual feel more comfortable about their body.
Elective Vaginoplasty
Elective vaginoplasty is a surgical procedure that is done to correct both cosmetic issues and vaginal relaxation, which can occur after giving birth to a newborn, due to age, genetics, or puberty. This form of vaginoplasty is often considered a cosmetic surgical procedure, although it isn’t always cosmetic; it has also been known to help with sexual discomfort and bladder leakage and issues, as well.
Gender Reassignment Surgery
A vaginoplasty procedure can also be done as part of gender reassignment surgery. This will involve taking existing genital tissue in order to construct a vagina, vulva, clitoris, and labia majora/minora. This form of vaginoplasty will require constant aftercare, including dilation on a regular basis as a way to keep the vagina open. The procedure can be performed on those who have already spent twelve months living as their identified gender. This surgery is usually available to patients who are eighteen years of age or older. After the surgery, you can expect to remain in the hospital for up to a week and have a recovery time of six to eight weeks.
Reconstruction and Cosmetic Vaginoplasty
Vaginoplasty can be performed as a reconstructive and cosmetic procedures. The procedure can change the appearance of the labia, as well as tighten the vagina and give it a more youthful appearance.
Reasons Why Women Want Vaginoplasty
Women seek out vaginoplasty for many different reasons. One reason for a vaginoplasty procedure is due to lax muscles in the vagina, which typically occurs after childbirth, but can also be due to age and genetics. Some cases of this can be mild, but others can be so severe that control over the bladder is affected. For many women, vaginoplasty can help tighten the muscles.
The Difference Between Vaginoplasty and Labiaplasty
Vaginoplasty and labiaplasty are two different procedures, each targeting a different part of the female genitals.
A labiaplasty is a plastic surgery procedure that involves changing the appearance of the labia, or vaginal lips. This procedure can be done on the labia majora and/or the labia minora, and it can also be paired with a vaginoplasty procedure if the patient wants to focus on more than just the outward appearance of the labia. Labiaplasty is often done when a patient is wanting to alter the size and shape of the labia or make it symmetrical. A Labiaplasty can involve the removal of parts of the labia in order to give it a more aesthetic appearance or to reduce irritation.
Vaginoplasty is a surgical procedure that is done with the main goal of tightening up loose, or lax, vaginal muscles. Whether this is caused by childbirth, age, genetics, or changes in the body, the vaginoplasty procedure can be used for cosmetic purposes or medical purposes, such as to help with bladder control.
Who Makes a Good Vaginoplasty Candidate?
While the vaginoplasty procedure is safe for women of all ages, those who seek out the vaginoplasty are typically certain they are finished having children and are between the ages of thirty and fifty. Good candidates for vaginoplasty are also in good physical health. It is important to note that with the procedure, you should have realistic expectations
What is Vaginal Laxity?
Vaginal laxity is when the vaginal muscles become stretched or loose. While this can occur after childbirth or with body changes, such as weight loss or aging. Vaginal laxity can cause decreased sensations or satisfaction during sexual intercourse and can range in severity from mild to severe. Vaginal laxity can also cause problems using feminine products such as tampons, or having the ability to control one’s bladder. If vaginal laxity becomes a problem for you, a vaginoplasty may be able to help to correct the issue by tightening the vagina.
Vaginoplasty Surgery
There are a few options for those seeking out a Vaginoplasty surgery. Some of the options are nonsurgical, while others are a bit more involved. Procedures such as Femilift is also available to those who are seeking out vaginoplasty. Other vaginoplasty surgeries, such as gender reassignment surgery, will take more time in terms of recovery and hospital stay, and have higher rates of infection than minimally invasive or laser procedures.
What is a Femilift
Femilift is a new, nonsurgical vaginal tightening procedure that can improve the health and elasticity of vaginal tissue. Femilift is a procedure that is done with a controlled laser beam. The laser beam is used to apply concentrated heat to the vaginal tissue, which will cause contraction of the collagen and elastin in the tissue, stimulating new growth and regeneration of important proteins. A Femilift procedure is done in about fifteen minutes, making it great for busy women who are looking to fit it in during their day. Many patients report that the procedure is virtually painless and requires no downtime. Femilift offers better control over urinary incontinence, as well as increased sensation during sexual intercourse.
Risks of Undergoing Vaginoplasty Surgery
While vaginoplasty surgery is often uccessful, it is important to understand that like any surgical procedure, there are risks for undergoing vaginoplasty surgery. While these risks are low, it is still important to be advised of them:
- Infections
- Bleeding
- Scarring
- Pain
- Changes in sensations that can be long lasting
Preparing for Your Vaginoplasty Surgery
If you have a scheduled vaginoplasty surgery, there are several things that you can do to prepare. Following instructions provided by your doctor on drinking, eating, and what medications you are able to take before your surgery are important, so make sure you understand them and have discussed them with your doctor. You should avoid smoking or using tobacco products for several weeks prior to the surgery, and it is important that you do not take any aspirin for two weeks beforehand. Hair removal can also be a good way to prepare for your surgery, as it will make the process easier for your doctor.
Recovering from Your Vaginoplasty Surgery
After your vaginoplasty surgery, you should expect to have some downtime so that you can properly recover. Take some time off work to allow your body to heal. Within the first few days, you should expect some pain, which can be managed with medications, either prescribed by a doctor or over-the-counter. You can also expect there to be some spotting and swelling. The swelling can be managed with cool compresses on the affected area. After three or four days, many patients find that they can resume daily activities, and even return to work after two weeks. Sexual activities should be postponed until after six or eight weeks after surgery.
After your vaginoplasty surgery, many doctors recommend using pelvic floor exercises as a way to keep the muscles tight and give you better control over your bladder, as well as enhance sexual pleasure.
Is Vaginoplasty Covered by Insurance
Most insurance companies do not typically cover vaginoplasty or labiaplasty if it is sought out for cosmetic purposes as an elective procedure rather than a medically necessary procedure. Reasons that vaginoplasty can be deemed medically necessary include chronic irritation, congenital conditions, and labial overgrowth.
