Childbirth and menopause are two major phases in a woman’s life that bring on a host of significant changes to a woman’s body, particularly the vagina. Vaginal delivery causes vaginal laxity, a condition in which the vagina loses its natural elasticity and sensitivity. After menopause, the dramatic decline in a woman’s estrogen levels and collagen production also causes vaginal laxity. This common intimate issue can gnaw away at a woman’s sense of self-worth.
Fortunately, there is a procedure that can address vaginal laxity—vaginoplasty. This is a type of vaginal rejuvenation procedure that aims to address the loosening of the vaginal canal tissues and to restore the contraction and tightening capacity of the vaginal muscles. Vaginoplasty ultimately revitalizes the health, appearance, and function of the vagina.
Let’s delve into vaginoplasty and learn about how to prepare for and what to expect during and after the procedure.
Preparing for the Procedure
Your gynecologist will need to examine your vagina to determine whether you’re a good candidate for this procedure. An inspection is also necessary to ascertain how loose the vaginal muscles and walls are. After the examination, your gynecologist may have to ask you questions about your medical history.
To minimize potential risks and get your body ready for the procedure, your gynecologist will likely give you preoperative instructions weeks beforehand.
If you are a smoker, your doctor will require you to stop at least two weeks before your procedure. This is imperative, as smoking can cause surgical complications and affect the initial healing phase. One to two weeks prior to your surgery, you may also be required to skip taking certain medications and dietary supplements, such as those that can increase your risk of bleeding.
During the Procedure
Vaginoplasty is performed on an outpatient basis, which means you can return home on the same day. You will be placed under anesthesia to keep you relaxed throughout the procedure.
During the surgery, the doctor addresses the laxity at the vaginal orifice by removing excess skin and suturing the muscles back to create a smaller opening. The result is a tighter vagina.
The procedure takes several hours to complete.
After the Procedure
After vaginoplasty, you should be able to return to work after a recovery period of a week. Your doctor will recommend that you avoid having sexual intercourse and masturbation until several weeks after your surgery.
Ninety percent of women who receive a vaginoplasty report an improvement in sensation and self-confidence.
Vaginoplasty in Miami, FL
The success of vaginoplasties is highly dependent on the skill and experience of the doctor. This is why you should only have it done by an expert on vaginal rejuvenation techniques.
At Levin’s Women’s Health & Wellness Center, we have board-certified gynecologists who have performed numerous successful vaginal rejuvenation procedures. One of our providers, Dr. Joan Alvarez, is a recipient of the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists (AAGL) “Recognition of Excellence in Minimally Invasive Gynecology” award. You can rest assured that you are in good hands.
If you have questions about vaginal rejuvenation or would like to make an appointment with Dr. Alvarez, call our clinic at (305) 981-0231 or use our online request form.