Despite the fact cosmetic gynecology has been around for a while now, there’s still a lot of confusion surrounding these types of procedures.
For instance, we find many people confuse a labiaplasty with a vaginoplasty, thinking the procedures are interchangeable.
The reality is, though, both procedures serve a different purpose. Knowing what these procedures are for will make it easier for you to determine which procedure will fit your needs.
Vaginoplasty – Restructuring Vaginal Tissues
A vaginoplasty is a type of gynecologic plastic surgery which restructures the vagina. Over time – either with age or pregnancy and childbirth – the vagina can lose its shape and structure. The vagina isn’t as tight as it once was.
When this procedure is performed, a portion of the vaginal wall is removed and then the vaginal muscles are tightened and those of the pelvic floor.
Why would a woman want a tighter vagina? There are numerous reasons why women decide to have this procedure. They include:
- Feeling loose (both to the woman and to her sexual partner)
- Loss of sensitivity (some people claim this procedure improves the sexual experience for both the woman and her partner with improved sensation and tightness)
- A transgender sex change (the complete formation of a vagina).
Labiaplasty Is Cosmetic Surgery on Outer Gynecologic Tissues
Just as a vaginoplasty focuses on the vagina, a labiaplasty focuses on the labia, or the outer “lips” of a woman’s genitals.
Some women have what they feel is excess tissue which makes up either the inner or outer labia.
It’s important to note no two women are completely alike when it comes to their physical makeup – and this goes for their genitals as well. Some women have no problem with having more tissue than others.
In other cases, the extra tissue can cause insecurity and even pain. Some women have reported their inner labia are so long it can actually be pulled up into the vagina during intercourse. This is not just uncomfortable – it’s extremely painful.
Sometimes it’s not the amount of tissue which makes up the inner and outer labia a woman has an issue with. In many cases, the problem is with the shape of the labia.
When this procedure is performed, the amount of tissue can be reduced and reshaped as well. For example, if a woman has one vaginal lip which is longer or larger than the other, we can reshape it so the lips are symmetrical.
Is Cosmetic Gynecology For You?
Some women need cosmetic surgery for other reasons besides improving the sexual experience and giving women more confidence. These surgeries can correct some birth defects and even help with urinary incontinence.
Recent studies have shown cosmetic surgery on the labia is the second fastest growing cosmetic procedure in North America.
A major reason for this is the fact it gives women more confidence. Lack of self-confidence can lead to sexual dysfunction, as can physical challenges – like the friction which is felt during intercourse because of larger labium.
If you experience urinary incontinence, pain during sex, don’t enjoy sex as much because of less sensitivity, or simply don’t feel comfortable with the way your private parts look – cosmetic surgery may be indicated.
Choose the Best Surgeon for Your Gynecologic Needs
If you decide you’re interested in a cosmetic gynecologic surgery, we welcome you to schedule a consultation with us. We can inform you of all the pros and cons of the procedures, as well as what to expect after you’ve had the surgery.
Are you interested in learning more about cosmetic gynecologic procedures? Please contact us via email or phone. We’re happy to answer all of your questions during a confidential consultation.
