Vaginal Surgery

What You Need To Know

Vaginal reconstruction or vaginal rejuvenation surgery are the terms used for a wide range of procedures whose objectives are to repair or reconstruct the vagina. Vaginal surgery aims to reduce pain and improve the appearance, size, function and possibly the sensitivity of the vagina. Several procedures may be included under this umbrella term including:

• Vaginoplasty (tightening of the vagina)
• Labiaplasty (reshaping of the labia)
• Vulvaplasty (reshaping of the vulva)

Reduction of pain is not the only positive result of vaginal surgery, many women discover a renewed self-confidence post-procedure.

Why You Might Need Vaginal Surgery

Any woman whose uro-vaginal region has been altered or injured for various medical reasons may be eligible for vaginoplasty.

Among the many candidates for reconstructive procedures are:

• Cancer patients who underwent extensive surgery or radiation treatments for cancer of the organs and structures of the urinary tract and/or reproductive system.
• Women with vaginal wall prolapse.
• Women who have physical trauma to the vaginal region as a result of accident, assault or rape.
• Women with congenital abnormalities (birth defects) affecting the vaginal region.

Additionally, vaginal reconstruction or rejuvenation is a great option for a woman in good health who has one or more of the following concerns:

• The contours of the genital structures have become inelastic or stretched out
• Soreness or pain with sexual activity or exercise
• Diminished sensation during intercourse proceeding childbirth
• A desire to improve the contour or appearance of the genitals

How Advanced Gynecology Can Help

Our board-certified team of women's health experts are ready to help you with diagnostic care and a range of treatment options.
For more information, schedule an appointment today or call 706-389-9228 to speak with one of our patient coordinators. We will counsel you about the best options for you and your health.

How to Prepare for Vaginal Surgery

While every woman is different and the various purposes for these procedures are varied, the intended result of these surgeries are similar:

• To tighten the vagina to restore it to nearly the same size it was before experiencing childbirth
• Improving the appearance of the labia can lead to a boost in self-confidence
• Exercise can become more comfortable
• Heightened sensitivity during sexual intercourse
• Improvements in self-perception and self-esteem can enhance quality of life

It should be noted that while it is true that vaginal tissues can stretch, such as what is experienced during childbirth, surgically tightening the vaginal tissue on its own does not guarantee a heightened sexual response. In fact, heightened sexual sensitivity is not an automatic guarantee for more pleasure and can instead lead to oversensitivity and pain.

Preparation for surgery depends on the type of surgery being performed and what the needs of the reconstruction or rejuvenation are. Your doctor will offer several recommendations that you will need to follow prior to your surgical procedure and are common to most surgeries.

Potential Side Effects & Risk Factors for Vaginal Surgery

The procedure typically takes only a few days of recovery time. Depending on the type of vaginal surgery performed, you will probably not be able to engage in sexual intercourse for around six weeks post-procedure. As with any surgical procedure there are a few risks including:

• Risk of infection
• Loss of sensation
• Scarring
• Adverse response to anesthesia