Vaginal reconstruction is the term used to refer to a range of procedures that are aimed at repairing or reconstructing the vagina, significantly improving its appearance, function, size, and possibly, sensitivity.
Even with its life-changing benefits, a vaginal reconstruction procedure—like any other type of surgery—is not without its fair share of risks and contraindications.
Let’s check out the risks and contraindications of vaginal reconstruction that you may find worth discussing with your gynecologist if you’re interested about the procedure.
Potential Side Effects and/or Risks
Vaginal reconstruction typically takes only a few days of recovery time. Depending on which type of vaginal reconstruction procedure you want done, your gynecologist will likely recommend that you abstain from sexual intercourse for about six weeks following the surgery.
Listed below are the side effects or risks common among all types of vaginal reconstruction:
Risk of Infection
Any time you have an incision, you also have the risk of infection. Your doctor, however, will take every step necessary to reduce the possibility of infection following the surgery. After the procedure, you’ll receive antibiotic prescription and instructions on how to keep the area clean.
- Bleeding
Most women experience some bleeding after this surgery, albeit only light. Your doctor will explain the difference between a normal amount of bleeding and when you should be concerned.
Your gynecologist will use the proper techniques and recommend that you avoid taking any blood thinners or medications that can increase bleeding or interfere with the clotting process for a certain length of time before your procedure.
Bruising
You may notice you have some bruising at and around the site after your surgery. This is typical and stems from bleeding underneath the surface of the skin. This will gradually subside in a few days.
- Scarring
Anytime a cut is made in your body, there’s also a possibility of scarring. Scarring occurs from the body’s natural healing process, particularly the collagen that the body releases to the site.
Since the incisions from this surgery are small, scarring is usually minimal. Your gynecologist also makes the incisions in areas prone to scarring as inconspicuous as possible.
Contraindications for Vaginal Reconstruction
Vaginal reconstruction is contraindicated in women who have any of the following conditions:
- Active vulvovaginal infection/s (herpes and other STDs)
- History of impaired wound healing and keloid formation
- History of radiation to vaginal/colorectal tissue
- Pelvic organ prolapse (a condition in which the pelvic muscles can no longer support the organs in it—bladder, rectum, or uterus—causing any of these organs to slip down from their normal position and bulge into the vagina)
- Pregnancy or three months within the postpartum period
- Cervical, vaginal, or other lesions in the treatment site that are unevaluated and undiagnosed
Vaginal Reconstruction Experts in North Miami, FL
Many of these risks can be avoided simply by choosing a vaginal reconstruction expert, who has had a proven track record for delivering successful outcomes.
At Levin’s Women’s Health & Wellness Center, our board-certified gynecologists are not only known for the exceptional outcomes and patient experience they provide but also for their warm, reassuring demeanor. If you’re contemplating going for vaginal reconstruction, you can rest assured that you can feel most comfortable discussing with any one of our gynecologists your concerns and hopes about the surgery. They will explain to you how the procedure works, what you can expect, and how it will benefit you in words you can perfectly understand.
If you have any questions about vaginal reconstruction or would like to schedule a consultation for the procedure with one of our gynecologists, call us at 305-981-0231, or you may use our online appointment request form. We look forward to helping you reinvigorate your sex life!