The Ins and Outs of Vaginoplasty

Vaginoplasty is a broad term; it can refer to reconstructive, rejuvenative or purely cosmetic procedures involving any of a number of organs and tissues related to the genital region of a woman. With that much information encompassed, it can be difficult for patients to parse out the data related to the procedure that interests them, or even match up intended goals with the appropriate operation. That confusion ends here. Below is a guideline of the "ins and outs" of vaginoplasty, with four different surgeries outlined by name and designated as “in” or “out,” based on whether the organ of interest is located internally or externally.

 

In: Hymen Repair/Reconstruction

 

This one’s a bit unusual in our day and age, and not widely performed in western medicine. Usually requested for religious or other ceremonial purposes, the procedure involves reconstructing or repairing the hymen.

 

Out: Labiaplasty

 

In contrast, labiaplasty is a very popular procedure. This surgery involves the resizing of the genital lips, and often includes either a labia minora reduction or a labia majora augmentation (less common). Labiaplasty can be performed to correct asymmetries, as well as to address discomfort from clothing, exercise or sex. 

 

In: G-Spot Amplification  

 

Ah, the g-spot: subject of myth and medical journal alike, and now, the subject of a new procedure that promises to raise sexual gratification. Located on the inside wall of a woman’s vaginal canal, the g-spot is thought to be the center of arousal and orgasm. To that end, G-Spot Amplification is an outpatient procedure in which a small amount of collagen is injected underneath the g-spot, raising that sensitive zone and increasing its stimulation during sexual intercourse. Results are immediate and last anywhere from 4-6 months.

 

Out: Clitoral Unhooding

 

Exactly as it sounds, clitoral unhooding refers to a procedure in which excess skin that may be hanging over the clitoris is trimmed away. Clitoral unhooding is often performed in conjunction with a labiaplasty, and is intended to increase stimulation and improve sexual gratification as well as deliver a pleasing aesthetic result. 

 

For women in Minnesota and beyond, Dr. Erhard is a board certified gynecologist and cosmetic surgeon with a practice emphasis in vaginoplasty and labiaplasty. If you are interested in learning more about what these procedures can do for you, email Dr. Erhard and her team at info@mngaclinic.com or read more about the procedures at http://mngaclinic.com/VaginalRejuvenation.aspx.

5 Minute Q&A About: Vaginoplasty

According to a report released by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the popularity of Vaginoplasty is increasing exponentially. Between 2011 and 2012 alone, the number of Vaginoplasty procedures being performed in the United States grew by over 60%. That number seems especially staggering when compared to the percent decreases reported by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons for 2011-2012 for historically popular procedures, including Breast Augmentation (-7%), Breast Lift (-2%), Butt Lift (-36%) and Tummy Tuck (-8%). 

 

So, what accounts for the vigorous interest in Vaginoplasty? Female baby boomers and Gen X’ers are exploring rejuvenative options; and as the number of procedures performed annually rises, so too do the number of plastic surgeons and board certified OB-GYN’s with the training and medical expertise to deliver highly precise, refined results. All research begins with a question; in this case, let’s start with three.     

Q: What does the operation entail, and how long does it take?  

 

Vaginoplasty, like labiaplasty, is an outpatient procedure. The surgery itself is completed in 1-2 hours, though patients may also choose to have it done in conjunction with another procedure, such as a labia minora reduction or a labia majora augmentation. Surgical techniques and tools vary, and can include laser vaginal rejuvenation, a radiofrequency device, an electric knife, plastic surgery scissors and a surgical scalpel. Vaginoplasty usually involves decreasing the external and internal diameter of the vagina, as well as tightening the vaginal muscle wall.  

Q: After the procedure, how long do I have to abstain from sex?  

Your doctor will provide you with specific post-operative instructions, but a good general guideline is to avoid sexual intercourse and masturbation for at least six weeks after surgery. If you choose to undergo a labiaplasty at the same time, your doctor may have additional guidelines for the recovery period.  

Q: In general, how long do results last? 

Aging and accident aside, the results from Vaginoplasty are long-lasting. This procedure carries an exceptionally low risk of side effects, which means you can expect to be very happy! 

For women in Minnesota and beyond, Dr. Erhard is a board certified gynecologist and cosmetic surgeon with a practice emphasis in vaginoplasty and labiaplasty. If you are interested in learning more about what these procedures can do for you, email Dr. Erhard and her team at info@mngaclinic.com or read more about the procedures at http://mngaclinic.com/VaginalRejuvenation.aspx.

Labiaplasty: Giving Your Goods the “It” Factor

The vagina is an extraordinary organ, the root of a woman’s femininity and all too often, a source of considerable anxiety or discomfort. Listen up, ladies: With labiaplasty, it no longer has to be this way. Alleviating these anxieties can be accomplished with labia surgery; figuring out if the procedure is right for you starts with an understanding of what it can accomplish, from physical to aesthetic implications. Let’s dig in.  

Labiaplasty: An Overview 

As with any surgical procedure, the first step is a consultation. This is an opportunity to ask your surgeon important questions about the procedure, their training and preferred surgical techniques, as well as browse before and after photos to discuss and set your aesthetic goals. The procedure itself takes less than an hour, requires only local anesthetic and usually involves only mild discomfort during recovery. Most surgeons recommend a recovery period of 4-6 weeks—avoiding sexual activity during this time is a must—to allow your body to heal and ensure best results.   

Physical: Putting the “It” in Clit 

Often performed as part of a labiaplasty, clitoral hood reduction is just as it sounds: A procedure in which the size of the clitoral hood is reduced. The result? A more exposed clitoral glans—which in turn means greater sensitivity and easier access to the seat of female sexual stimulation. Women often opt to add clitoral hood reduction to the traditional labiaplasty, and post-operatively report higher arousal and greater satisfaction. We say: Let form meet function.  

Aesthetic: Don’t Let It All Hang Out 

For some women, accident, aging, injury or genes leave them with protrusive labia and vaginal discomfort. For others, however, it’s simply a matter of aesthetics. Labiaplasty offers relief for both. From correcting asymmetries to trimming excess, labia surgery is tailored to your unique needs and personal goals. With precision surgical techniques, the labia minora are retouched and the vulva beautified for an all-new you.  

If you are interested in learning more about what a labiaplasty can do for you, email Dr. Erhard and her team at info@mngaclinic.com or read more about the procedure at http://mngaclinic.com/VaginalRejuvenation/Labiaplasty.aspx.   

Labiaplasty: Minor Surgery, Major Boost

Dangle, protrude, hurt and annoy: These are the words women often use to describe concerns about their labia minora. The antidote, on the other hand, can be summed up in a word: labiaplasty. Whether the genital lips are a source of social anxiety or physical discomfort, the consequences can feel overwhelming—but a solution does exist. Let’s take a minute to answer some common questions about the pros, possible cons and prices of labia surgery.

 

"What can a labiaplasty do for me?"  

Well, it depends on your goals. Dr. Erhard considers each woman’s case on an individual level—each woman’s body is unique, and thus, there is no "one size fits all" labiaplasty. When a woman is unhappy with the appearance or the size of her genitalia, some common culprits include effects of childbirth, the natural process of aging, genetic factors, and accident or injury. On a general level, a labiaplasty includes a labia minora reduction and/or correction of asymmetries or other discrepancies of the labia minora. The surgery is personalized to fit the needs of the individual woman, and the results are equally personal. Patients have reported higher sex drive, greater self-confidence, more comfort wearing certain clothes. It all depends on you. 

 

"Are there risks or side effects with a labiaplasty?" 

A labiaplasty, despite the long name, is actually a simple and relatively quick surgery. Local anesthetic is used, so you will not feel pain during the procedure, and post-operative pain will be minimized. Dr. Erhard is a board certified OB/GYN, and is fellowship trained in Vaginal Reconstructive Surgery and renowned in the field of Cosmetic Vaginal Surgery. She uses precision surgical tactics and takes great care to protect and preserve the sensitive tissues of this area while ensuring a great aesthetic outcome.   

"Be honest: How much will a labiaplasty set me back?" 

Unlike many other kinds of plastic and cosmetic surgery, a labiaplasty is an affordable procedure. The cost can range from about $3,000 to $5,000, a comprehensive fee that includes everything except prescription medications. Care Credit and other financing options are available through our office. 

If you are interested in learning more about what a labiaplasty can do for you, email Dr. Erhard and her team at info@mngaclinic.com or read more about the procedure at http://mngaclinic.com/VaginalRejuvenation/Labiaplasty.aspx.