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.