Detailed Procedure Information

Vaginoplasty refers to a surgical intervention aimed at tightening and reconstructing the vaginal canal and its supporting muscles. Sometimes called female genital plastic surgery or surgical vaginal tightening, this procedure addresses changes in vaginal tone and function that arise due to aging, pregnancy, childbirth, genetics, or trauma.

Many patients opt to combine vaginoplasty with complementary aesthetic genital surgeries such as labiaplasty or vulvaplasty to enhance both function and appearance.

Who Should Consider Vaginoplasty?

Over time, or following childbirth and weight fluctuations, vaginal tissues and muscles may loosen, leading to symptoms such as decreased sensation, vaginal laxity, discomfort during sex, or urinary incontinence. Vaginoplasty may be suitable if you experience:

• Reduced vaginal tightness from natural aging or after pregnancies
• Discomfort or pain during sexual activity, bicycling, or horseback riding
• Diminished vaginal sensation after childbirth
• Discomfort linked to previous genital surgeries
• Stress urinary incontinence symptoms

Benefits of Vaginoplasty Surgery

• Restoration of vaginal tightness reminiscent of pre-pregnancy or youthful tone
• Potential reduction or elimination of urinary leakage
• Enhanced confidence wearing form-fitting clothing, swimwear, or intimate apparel
• Increased sexual satisfaction
• Improved self-esteem and body image

Important Considerations Before Surgery

To ensure safety and optimal outcomes, consider the following before proceeding:

• General good health is essential for surgery candidacy
• Risks include bladder injury, bleeding, infection, or temporary loss of sensation
• Adjustment period may be necessary for both you and your partner to accommodate new sensations
• Planned future pregnancies may stretch vaginal tissues and compromise surgical results; delaying surgery may be preferable
• Recovery usually spans 2 to 4 weeks, with activity restrictions during this time

Selecting a Surgeon

Choosing the right surgeon is critical to achieving safe, effective, and satisfying results with vaginoplasty. Here are key factors to consider:

• Board certification in plastic surgery or a relevant specialty
• Extensive experience specifically with vaginoplasty and related vaginal rejuvenation surgeries
• Comfort level and confidence during consultations
• Membership in recognized professional societies such as The Aesthetic Society

Members of The Aesthetic Society adhere to stringent standards for education, training, and ethical practice, ensuring you receive expert care. Use our Surgeons Near You feature to locate qualified specialists.

Understanding the Consultation Process

Your initial consultation is an opportunity to thoroughly discuss your goals, expectations, and medical history. Expect your surgeon to assess your candidacy, explain possible techniques, and recommend treatments tailored to your needs.

Come prepared with details of your previous surgeries, medical conditions, allergies, and medications. This comprehensive review helps your surgeon develop a personalized surgical plan.

Questions to Ask Your Surgeon

• Am I an appropriate candidate for vaginoplasty?
• What results are realistic for me?
• What combination of procedures do you recommend?
• How experienced are you with this surgery?
• Where will the surgery be performed and how long will it take?
• What type of anesthesia will be used?
• What can I expect regarding incisions and scarring?
• What is the recovery timeline and activity restrictions?
• What are the possible risks and complications?
• What options exist if I am unsatisfied with the results?

For additional guidance, see our Questions to Ask Your Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon resource.

Next Steps After Consultation

Your surgeon will review your goals and exam findings, outlining treatment recommendations, expected outcomes, risks, costs, and preoperative preparation. You may decide to seek further opinions or ask follow-up questions before proceeding. Our Ask a Surgeon tool also offers a way to get expert advice online.

Preparing for your Procedure

Proper preparation helps ensure a smooth surgery and recovery. Before your vaginoplasty, your surgeon will provide detailed instructions and review your health status through an examination and medical history evaluation.

Preoperative Instructions May Include:

• Cessation of smoking to promote healing
• Avoidance of aspirin, anti-inflammatory medications, and certain herbal supplements that can increase bleeding risk
• Hydration advice to support recovery

Since vaginoplasty is most often outpatient, arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you for at least the first night.

What to Expect on Surgery Day

• The procedure typically takes place in a hospital, specialized surgical center, or accredited office-based suite
• Anesthesia options vary but general anesthesia is common; local anesthesia or sedation may also be used
• Monitors will track vital signs including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation to ensure safety
• The surgeon will meticulously remove excess vaginal tissue, tighten muscles and mucosa, then close incisions with precise suturing
• Surgical packing may be placed inside the vagina to support healing, usually removed the day following surgery
• After surgery you will be observed in the recovery area before discharge

Aftercare & Recovery

Typical Recovery Timeline

Recovery from vaginoplasty generally ranges from two to four weeks, though this varies based on the extent of surgery and individual healing. Your surgeon will provide detailed postoperative care instructions including:

• When and how to remove vaginal packing
• Guidance for hygiene and wound care
• Common symptoms such as bruising, swelling, and discharge
• Signs that warrant medical attention

It is crucial to follow all aftercare directions closely to optimize healing and minimize complications.

Recovery Experience

• Plan to rest in bed on the day of surgery
• Some bruising, swelling, and mild discomfort for several weeks is normal and manageable with prescribed medications
• Difficulty urinating may occur temporarily
• Discharge that is brown or yellowish may be noticed and is often expected
• Avoid sexual activity, tampons, baths, hot tubs, and saunas for the period recommended by your surgeon
• You might return to work approximately two weeks post-surgery depending on your healing progress

Results

Longevity of Surgical Outcomes

When performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, the benefits of vaginoplasty can be durable and long-lasting. Maintaining a stable weight and avoiding future pregnancies helps preserve results. While natural aging continues, most patients notice sustained improved vaginal tightness and function.

Postoperative Considerations

Adhering to follow-up schedules with your surgeon ensures your recovery is on track and allows early identification of any concerns. If questions arise or if you notice unexpected changes, promptly contact your surgeon to address them. Regular assessments support optimal long-term results and patient satisfaction.

Incisions and Scars

The incisions for vaginoplasty are typically made inside the vaginal mucosa, where scars are hidden from view. Skilled surgeons strive to minimize incision size and place them in subtle locations to avoid visible marks. Advanced suturing and careful tissue handling further reduce scarring risks.

As a result, patients generally do not experience noticeable external scars following their vaginal tightening procedure.

Safety Considerations

Understanding Risks Associated with Vaginoplasty

Though major complications are uncommon when vaginoplasty is performed by an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon, it remains a surgical procedure with inherent risks. Potential complications include:

• Reactions to anesthesia
• Hematoma or seroma formation requiring drainage
• Infection or excessive bleeding
• Altered sensation including numbness or pain
• Scarring or adhesion formation
• Damage to adjacent organs such as the bladder
• Unsatisfactory aesthetic or functional outcomes requiring revision

Specific to vaginoplasty, risks can also encompass:

• Bladder injury or persistent urinary issues
• Temporary or permanent changes in sensation
• Pain during intercourse

Carefully selecting a qualified surgeon and diligently following all pre- and postoperative directions helps minimize these risks and promotes a successful recovery.

Associated Costs

Financial Considerations

The total expense for vaginoplasty varies depending on factors such as the surgeon’s expertise, location, facility fees, and the extent of the procedure and any additional treatments performed concurrently.

As vaginoplasty is generally considered an elective cosmetic surgery, insurance coverage is typically not provided. Many clinics offer various financing options to help make the procedure accessible.

When evaluating costs, prioritize surgeon qualifications, safety standards, and the quality of care over price alone. This approach helps ensure safe surgery and results you can trust.

For detailed information on expected expenses, discuss directly with your chosen surgeon during consultation.