Q&A: What is Vaginoplasty?
Heard about this procedure on social media or the internet, but wondering what it really entails? Dr. Ammar Mahmoud, board-eligible gynecologist and highly-trained cosmetic surgeon specializing in cosmetic and functional gynecological medicine, answers all your questions.
By Dr. Ammar Mahmoud
What is vaginoplasty?
Vaginoplasty, also called posterior colporrhaphy, is a surgical procedure that aids to tighten the vagina that has become loose from aging and vaginal delivery. Labiaplasty, which is the procedure used on the labia or the lips around the vagina, can be done alone or in conjunction with vaginoplasty.
How is the vaginoplasty performed?
Once the amount of tightening to be performed is determined, the doctor identifies the extra skin to be removed from the vagina. Under the skin, the doctor tightens the tissues with strong sutures. After vaginal canal tightening, the surgeon will suture the mucosal skin to close it. Any protruding skin will be removed for a more aesthetic appearance.
What are the different types of vaginoplasty surgery?
Plastic surgeons offer a wide range of vaginal rejuvenation treatments women can choose from. The appropriate procedure depends on the patient’s age and reason for vaginoplasty. The main types of vaginoplasty include intestinal, McIndoe, peritoneal, buccal mucosa, and penile inversion. In some instances, when a vagina is created through the procedure, it is called neovagina, which means “new vagina.”
What are the benefits of vaginoplasty?
After the procedure, women may feel they have more lubrication, making them feel better orgasms during sexual activity. Further, other problems that accompany childbirth — like urinary incontinence — may improve.
The other benefits include reducing pain and discomfort tied to an enlarged and protruding labia, improving the appearance and function of the vagina, and improving the quality of life.
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What are the risks of vaginoplasty?
Vaginoplasty is considered a safe procedure. In some instances, women experience mild discomforts after surgery, which will take a few days to resolve. However, potential risks are still possible, including bleeding, scarring, and infection. If there are any discomforts, the patient should consult with the surgeon immediately. This way, severe complications will not emerge.
How much does a vaginoplasty cost?
The average cost of vaginoplasty may vary depending on the woman’s case. Patients must consult with a doctor to better understand the cost and coverage of the procedure. This way, the patient can gain more information on the cost, procedure, and benefits of vaginoplasty.
How long does it take to heal from vaginoplasty?
It may take a few days before a patient can recover from vaginoplasty. Immediately after the procedure, the woman may feel pain and discomfort. The doctor will prescribe antibiotics and pain medication to provide pain relief and prevent infection on the surgical site. The complete recovery period may take six weeks and the doctor will provide post-care instructions for you to follow. After the procedure, the patient can return to work in about two to five days.
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Dr. Mahmoud is a board-eligible gynecologist and highly trained cosmetic surgeon specializing in cosmetic and functional gynecological medicine.
