Vaginal Rejuvenation: Is it right for you?

We live in a world where many people feel pressure to stand out, to be special, or unique; to have something that nobody else has. And yet, ironically, we simultaneously strive to look and feel our best. We work hard to achieve he?look; to look like the tars? The cosmetic and fashion industries obviously promote these endeavors. There are now, many new and varied surgeries that are being developed to help us meet our personal appearance goals. Additionally, exercise programs, diet education, healthy living advice, drug and tobacco avoidance are all important goals that we are all well in tune with. All of these pieces of advice will help us lead longer, happier and healthier lives.

So what does all this have to do with aginal Rejuvenation?(also known as Vaginoplasty, Vaginal Tightening Surgery, Vaginal Tightening by Surgery, Cosmetic Vaginal Surgery, and Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation)? Good question.

I want to take this opportunity to point out that, in my opinion, Vaginal Plastic Surgery and Vaginal Cosmetic Surgery may have less to do with how the vagina looks and more to do with how it works and feels. A recent study showed that nearly 50% of women in the United States report some form of sexual dysfunction(1). The most common complaints are lack of interest in sex (39%), low arousal (26%), and difficulty reaching climax (20%). Each of these issues is directly related to the function and appearance of the labia and vagina.

Over time, many changes occur to the pelvic floor muscles, bladder, rectum, anus, vagina, and labia. There are many causes for these changes; most of which are beyond the control of the individual. Most commonly, pregnancy and childbirth have a dramatic effect on the integrity and strength of the pelvic muscles. Many women heal back to a point where they feel satisfied but often state just not the same? Care providers will usually teach Kegel exercises as a way to improve pelvic function non-surgically. When these efforts are not adequate, many women will seek surgical assistance. Natural aging, repeated heavy lifting, medical conditions that cause a lot of coughing or straining, and weight gain can also lead to drastic changes in genital function and appearance.

In our experience, urinary incontinence and difficulty with bowel movements are two of the more common problems that develop and then worsen over time. Fortunately, there are very effective procedures that will help one regain normal function and return to an independent daily living free of these debilitating limitations. In regards to Vaginal Rejuvenation, Arizona has seen a sharp increase in demand for these types of procedures. The most important thing you can do to help yourself is discuss these issues with your physician. There are some new materials and techniques available that have revolutionized the ease of Vaginal Plastic Surgeries, recovery and the effectiveness of these repairs. Thousands of women are regaining their active lifestyles after minimally invasive surgeries that only require a week or so of recovery and yet yield a lifetime of satisfying and normal function.

The words aginal Rejuvenation?are a relatively new term that refers to the multiple procedures that can be done to repair the various problems that one may experience. Each person will have her own unique needs, and treatment should be designed on an individualized basis. An experienced, versatile gynecologic surgeon, fully versed in the different options available, will be able to design a treatment plan that is ideal for your specific needs and desires in regards to Vaginal Plastic Surgeries, Vaginal Tightening, and Vaginal Tightening by Surgery,. I have found that really listening to what my patient is noticing and feeling in her body provides me with invaluable information. This information helps me recommend the correct combination of Vaginal Rejuvenation repairs that are right for her. So, be frank, open, and honest with your doctor when you have discussions on these topics.

Let’s turn our attention to the specifics of these options.

I evaluate my patients with attention to four compartments: external (labia minora and introital skin), anterior vagina (urethra and bladder neck), posterior vagina (rectocele and anal sphincter), and the deep vagina (cervix, uterus and enterocele). Any person may need attention to one individual area, all four compartments or any combination thereof. Therefore, each person must be carefully evaluated for what would maximize benefit and minimize risks. Repair of the anterior and posterior compartments (if necessary) are usually straight forward. Revisions of the labia and whether or not to remove the uterus (hysterectomy) are often times a more difficult decision.
First, labia minora come in a wide variety of normal shapes, sizes and colors. When a patient has recurring infections, discomfort or pain with different activities (whether it be intercourse, biking, running, horseback riding, etc), or unhealed trauma, she should be considered for revision. In cases where there is dyspareunia (painful sexual intercourse), frequent urinary tract infections, and difficulties with hygiene and urination, your health insurance may cover Labioplasty Surgery. However, when a patient has a cosmetic goal for the labia without a functional issue, we think it is important to carefully review and discuss the risks and benefits involved in a surgery of this type.

As far as hysterectomy is concerned, we usually recommend a conservative approach if the uterus is not greatly enlarged or severely prolapsed. Many women would love to avoid monthly menses and often request a hysterectomy. Hysterectomy is a very common surgery. It is considered a major surgery and, as such, carries certain risks and problems. New ablation techniques are very effective in alleviating menstrual difficulties without the serious complication risks or lengthy recoveries. Additionally, the uterus and cervix are thought to be instrumental in normal sexual function and climax. Consequently, its?removal can adversely affect female orgasm. Armed with these options/benefits/risks, I only recommend hysterectomy when conservative management has failed or there is documented tissue pathology (i.e., cancer or large fibroids of the uterus). Two other situations arise that often lead me to recommend hysterectomy; painful or tender uterus (adenomyosis) and severe (grade III or IV) prolapse. Although neither of these situations is life threatening, they both cause significant dysfunction and diminish quality of life. Hysterectomy will allow this person to be functional again and thus make up for any loss in climax sensitivity. Certainly normal sexual function and orgasm are achievable after hysterectomy but make require a new approach and a shift in focus to external stimuli.

In summary, aginal Rejuvenation?is a modern term that represents a variety of procedure combinations utilized to surgically repair the internal and external female genitalia. Many of the techniques used are tried and true procedures that have been utilized for decades. Others are new twists with new materials that have offered significant improvements in effectiveness and reduced recovery times. Don’t be too nervous or shy to discuss personal issues with sexual function, urinary leakage, vaginal pressure with bowel movements, or any other seemingly embarrassing topic with your doctor. You are not alone in your struggles. We are trained to help you with these issues by formalizing an individual plan for repair and rejuvenation.

In conclusion, I would like to emphasize the importance of finding a surgeon with two equally important attributes. First, your surgeon should be well trained and skilled in the techniques required for this type of repair. Get personal recommendations from friends and/or do your research with the medical board and specialty board. For example, is your surgeon board certified? Check with your friends for referrals. Second, and just as important, he or she should also be able to listen carefully to your needs, issues, and desires and then perform your work-up and evaluation in a skilled, organized fashion with understandable explanations for you regarding options, risks, and expectations. Communication, explanation, and expectation are all crucial components in a successful relationship with your doctor ensuring your happiness and fulfillment. For more information regarding vaginal rejuvenation please visit us online at www.nvpsaz.com/body/vaginal-rejuvenation.

1. Shifren JL, Monz BU, Segreti A, Johannes CB. Sexual problems and distress in United States women: prevalence and correlates. Obstet Gynecol. 2008;112(5):970-978

Ty Witt, MD, FACOG is a board certified Gynecologist. Steven Gitt, MD, FACS is a dually board certified and re-certified Plastic Surgeon who has been in private practice for over 16 years. Dr. Gitt and Dr. Witt are in a group practice with 3 other Plastic Surgeons at North Valley Plastic Surgery www.nvpsaz.com in Phoenix, Arizona.

Tags: Dr. Mathews, Labiaplasty, medical, new, Rejuvenation, right, sexual, sexual function, surgery, Vaginal, vaginal rejuvenation, Vaginal Tightening, women | Category: Cosmetic Gynecology, News & Education |