Is Cosmetic Vaginoplasty Safe?

Sexual satisfaction is a key component of a healthy romantic relationship. In fact, sexual satisfaction is associated with higher levels of love, commitment, and stability in relationships – and lower divorce rates. Unfortunately, many men and women report having little interest in sex or trouble achieving orgasm.

One problem for women is weakened, loose vaginal muscles that often occur after childbirth or with age. Furthermore, women may become self-conscious of lax vaginal muscles, which can impact their desire to have sex. At Female Health Associates of North Texas, located in Fort Worth, Texas, board-certified urogynecologist Dr. Jeffrey M. Hantes offers vaginoplasty, which is a vaginal surgery that can tighten weak and lax vaginal muscles, remove excess tissue, and restore your vaginal health and appearance. 

Having vaginal surgery may intimidate or worry you. Here, Dr. Hantes explains why vaginoplasty is a safe and effective treatment option to improve your sexual satisfaction, health, and self-confidence.

Should I have a vaginoplasty?

If you’re experiencing stretched-out and slack vaginal tissue and muscles, you may be a good candidate for vaginoplasty. During childbirth, skin and vaginal muscles stretch and expand to allow the birth of your baby during a vaginal delivery. In most cases, the skin and muscles return to pre-pregnancy form. However, in many cases, the muscles and skin remain stretched and loose. These loose vaginal muscles may be exacerbated with each subsequent pregnancy.

Additionally, older women may experience similar vaginal laxity issues since vaginal skin may undergo the same changes with age. Stretched-out vaginal muscles and skin can impact your ability to enjoy sex and reach orgasm. If you don’t plan on having more children, Dr. Hantes can determine if you’re a good candidate for vaginoplasty after a physical exam and health history.

What happens during a vaginoplasty?

At Female Health Associates of North Texas, a vaginoplasty procedure is performed in-office under local or conscious sedation, if desired, to ensure you’re comfortable and relaxed. Dr. Hantes uses the most advanced surgical technique to tighten your muscles and remove excess tissue. 

You can expect the surgery to last about two hours. After time in the recovery room, you’ll be able to go home to relax and recover.

What happens after a vaginoplasty?

After the procedure, you may feel pain, swelling, and bruising for several days. This discomfort should slowly dissipate. As with any surgical procedure, downtime is integral to a healthy and speedy recovery. You should take it easy for about two weeks after your procedure. 

You should refrain from using tampons or having sex for about eight weeks. It may take up to three months to enjoy the full results of the surgery. One study found cosmetic genital surgery to be safe and effective, and the majority of study participants reported overall satisfaction and improvement in sexual function, genital appearance, and self-esteem.

If you’re considering vaginoplasty to help tighten your vaginal muscles and improve your vaginal health, call Female Health Associates of Texas to make an appointment or request one online.