What is Vaginoplasty?

A feeling of looseness or decreased sexual pleasure can be a common frustration for women following childbirth, as pregnancy and the birthing process can permanently stretch out the muscles of the vaginal canal. On occasion, this may occur in women without a prior history of childbirth and may be related to chronic pelvic strain associated with constipation or bearing down.
Vaginoplasty, often called vaginaplasty, vaginal rejuvenation or vaginal tightening, is a procedure that repairs lax internal muscles, and may increase sexual pleasure to help you feel like yourself again after pregnancy. For others, the increase in sexual friction achieved through more direct contact of the genitalia during intercourse can enhance one’s feelings of sexual intimacy.
Vaginal rejuvenation can also include labiaplasty and perineoplasty to improve the external appearance of your vaginal area as well. This latter procedure can correct the “open” appearance of the vagina that may lead to protrusion of tissue which many women find undesirable. Patients have also desired revision of unacceptable episiotomy scars or tears sustained at the time of delivery.

AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR VAGINOPLASTY?

If you’ve noticed diminished sensation during sex, or have a persistent feeling of internal looseness, you may be a candidate for this type of procedure. Vaginoplasty can tighten the internal muscles of the vagina or the vaginal opening itself to decrease the visibility of protruding tissue or an “open” appearance. Women with alteration in their bowel or bladder habits (fecal retention or stress urinary incontinence or leaking) should discuss this with their urogynecologist first as this may require reconstructive procedures.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING VAGINOPLASTY RECOVERY?

Plan to rest for the first few days after your Chicago vaginal tightening. Stool softeners are highly recommended. You may notice some bruising and swelling, both of which can be alleviated with the use of ice packs or oral medication. Most women return to work and their daily routine after 2 or 3 days, although sexual activity and tampon use should not resume for at least 6 weeks. Specific exercises such as vaginal dilation and scar massage may be instituted during this period. You should also avoid baths, swimming and hot tubs during your recovery period.

WHAT WILL SEX BE LIKE AFTER VAGINOPLASTY?

While improving your sexual function is a primary goal of vaginal rejuvenation, it’s impossible to predict how different women will respond sexually after surgery. Typically, women report stronger, tighter muscle tone and increased sensation for both them and their partner. The effects of renewed self-confidence after surgery can also be a contributor to an improved sex life after surgery.