Top 10 Questions Women Ask About Vaginal Rejuvenation

Vaginal rejuvenation is a broad term that refers to surgical and nonsurgical procedures that help improve a woman’s vaginal appearance and function. Studies show that vaginal rejuvenation procedures, such as labiaplasty, vaginoplasty, and clitoral hood reductions, are more popular than ever.

Dr. Jeffrey Hantes, a board-certified urogynecologist and fellowship-trained pelvic surgeon at Female Health Associates of North Texas, located in Fort Worth, Texas, has extensive experience and expertise in vaginal rejuvenation procedures. Here, he answers the most common questions he gets from his patients.

1. What are vaginal rejuvenation procedures?

Vaginal rejuvenation procedures can be for cosmetic or functional reasons. They’re procedures that can help a woman who doesn’t like the appearance of her vaginal area due to aging, childbirth, or genetics, or for women who have problems such as incontinence, sexual issues, or discomfort. 

2. What are the benefits of vaginal rejuvenation?

Vaginal rejuvenation procedures can help tighten and improve the form and function of your vagina. Some of the benefits include:

• Reduce urinary incontinence
• Increase sexual satisfaction
• Reduce pain or irritation related to excess skin
• Tighten the vaginal canal
• Reduce vaginal dryness

Additionally, addressing a concern related to your vaginal appearance can help you feel more confident in bathing suits and when naked.

3. Am I a candidate for vaginal rejuvenation?

If you’re embarrassed by the appearance of your vagina or concerned about issues related to the function of your vagina, such as incontinence or dryness, you may be a candidate. The best way to determine if you’re a candidate for vaginal rejuvenation and which procedure can best address your issue or concern is to make an appointment with Dr. Hantes for an exam and consultation. 

4. What is a labiaplasty?

Labiaplasty is a surgery to remove excess tissue from the labia minora, the small lips of the interior vagina, or the labia majora, the larger, outer vaginal lips. The surgery is performed for both cosmetic and functional reasons. Excess labia skin can get caught in zippers or rub against clothing, causing irritation.  

5. What is a clitoral hood reduction?

Clitoral hood reduction surgery is also performed for both cosmetic and functional reasons. Excess skin around the clitoral hood can also similarly cause irritation and sometimes embarrassment. Furthermore, this excess skin can interfere with sexual pleasure by obscuring the clitoris, which can interfere with sexual stimulation and enjoyment.

6. What is a vaginoplasty?

Both childbirth and aging can lead to loose vaginal walls. Loose vaginal walls can make sex less enjoyable, as well as increase the chance of urine leakage. A vaginoplasty is a procedure to remove excess skin and tighten vaginal skin and muscles. 

7. Can I combine two procedures?

Yes. Dr. Hantes can perform a combination of procedures during the same surgical appointment.

8. What are potential risks or side effects? 

As with any surgery, there are risks. Potential complications include bleeding, pain, scarring, and infection. However, choosing a skilled surgeon, such as Dr. Hantes, can reduce your risk of complications.

9. What can I expect during a procedure?

At Female Health Associates of North Texas, we perform the procedures in-house. Dr. Hantes administers local anesthesia to make sure you’re comfortable throughout the surgery. Depending on your goals and chosen procedure, the surgery should last between one and two hours. Afterward, you spend some time in the recovery room before being discharged on the same day.

10. When can I have sex again after the procedure?

You need about 2-3 days to recover from the surgery. After that, it can take 4-6 weeks to heal fully and for your stitches to dissolve before you can resume sexual activity again. Dr. Hantes will advise you when it’s safe to resume sexual intercourse.

For more information about vaginal rejuvenation or to schedule a consultation, call our office or request an appointment online through our website.