Female genital surgery – the medical term for this procedure – is an operation to reduced the size of various parts of the vagina. This type of surgery has become increasingly popular. Some refer to it as having a ‘designer vagina’ however it is a little more complicated than the name suggests. This surgery can also be used to tone, reshape, reconstruct and even tighten the various muscles and the surrounding skin of the vagina. In total, there are four common kinds of female genital surgeries; Labiaplasty, Vaginoplasty, Hymenoplasty and Clitoropexy.
Why have Female Genital Surgery? Women can be self-conscious about the appearance of their genitals, particularly as age sets in and the labia become stretched and saggy. The vaginal cavity can also be stretched due to the effects of child birth (and time), resulting in decreased sensation during sexual intercourse. For some women, female genital surgery is performed to improve their appearance (and there by confidence), for others, it is not so much the look of their genitals that they wish to improve, but the satisfaction that comes of their use.
The Procedure
Risks and Complications Generally, modern day surgery is considered safe.
As with all procedures there are a number of risks and complications associated with having surgery under general anesthetic. These risks will be discussed with you at your consultation as well as just before you go down to surgery. Approximately one-third of patients who receive an anaesthetic during surgery will experience “anaesthesia sickness” or post-operative nausea and vomiting (POVN).
The risks and complications associated with the female genital surgery itself can include; infection, this is one of the most common complications as the vagina holds a lot of bacteria.
Bleeding is another complication, which is quite common too as there is such a high blood supply to the area. Due to the moist area within the vagina, making it a difficult place to heal. This can result in movement of the scar and can even lead to the stitches splitting causing wound separation. This means that the wound would have to be re stitched.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q. How soon after having female genital surgery can I resume regular intercourse? A. Surgeons usually suggest waiting for 6 to 8 weeks before resuming regular intercourse. However people heal differently so usually you will know when you are ready.
Q. Which is better, the surgeon using a scalpel or a laser? A. The answer to this question has to be the laser, as there is such a high blood supply in that area, that you can cause bleeding. Having a laser is great as you can cauterize the blood vessels to help stem the bleeding to that area.
Q. Can I have surgery on my vagina if I have my period? A. Unfortunately, you cannot have surgery on your genital region if you are on your menstrual period. This should be considered when booking your procedure.
