Vaginal Reconstruction: the operation that all women inwardly desire
Many women would desire their vulva to look different as they want to look younger, boost their self-confidence or even look better with some tight trousers on. Many of them, however, are reluctant to proceed to an operation because they consider it as a difficult or complex procedure. The truth is that labiaplasty is easier than they imagine. And risks get minimized if the surgeon is certified and specialized to perform it. We talked with the President of the Greek Society of Cosmetic & Reconstructive Gynecology, Dr. Naoum, who is an expert in Cosmetic and Reconstructive Gynecology and he got all the answers to frequent questions on surgical vaginal reconstruction.
Dr. Naoum, Vaginal Reconstruction is becoming more and more popular lately. Would you like to explain why?
Vaginal Reconstruction is wide spreading enormously over the last decade, both in Greece and abroad. Hundreds of women have gone under cosmetic reconstructive gynecology procedures in our country, a number that has exceeded all our expectations when we first presented whose operations to the Greek public.
And what is the reason for the increase in demand?
As the years go by, women are getting more and more concerned with the appearance of their genitals. Their desire for a harmonious appearance in the vulva area is also evidenced by the ever-increasing number of women who choose to have hair removal in area. Remember that the area of the vulva is an erogenous zone intertwined with sexuality. More women also go to the gym and want a fitness look with tight clothes. It is a fact that Vaginal Reconstruction is an operation that most – if not all – women will need at some point in their lives.
Why do you say that?
First of all, there is a group of women who have disparities in the vulva area and that is much more common than most people think. Large, hypertrophic or asymmetrical inner labia for example, which project an unsightly image. It is an innate condition, the same as having a sharp nose for example. This deformity, however, can cause to them a lot of insecurity for their body. And this can be seen even to a teenage girl or a young woman. In that case, sexual expression gets difficult, and Vaginal Reconstruction can offer a great solution. Women with sagging vulva due to normal childbirth or excessive weight loss are also good candidates for a labiaplasty. Last but not least, the procedure is becoming popular to all women that face the alteration of the image of the vulva due to menopause and the decline of hormones but also due to aging.
So, are you suggesting that women at all ages may need Vaginal Reconstruction?
Exactly. Of course, every rule has exceptions but in general terms a woman, even with a well-formed vulva, will sooner or later suffer the wear and tear of aging.
Can age be revealed by the image of the vulva?
Yes, it can. Alterations in the appearance of the vulva area t is a normal sign of aging. Of course, some women may be perfectly OK with this. But most of them mind their appearance, desire to look younger, are sexually active and consequently pay attention even in the appearance of their vulva as it stimulates their sexual self-confidence.
Operating in the “intimate” area gives the impression of a complex and difficult procedure. How exactly is vaginal rejuvenation performed?
The surgeon proceeds to reduce the volume of the lips, to achieve symmetry between the small and large lips. At the same time, the goal is to restore the contour of the lips and offer a brighter and healthier color. It sounds easy. Moreover, it’s easy. Nevertheless, it takes a lot of experience and specialization in order not to have unpleasant complications. And that is because in this area we have nerve endings associated with orgasm and arousal, clitoris and urethra. Any intervention should be made by a specialist who knows very well the anatomy of the area. This is the reason why a woman should contact a specialized surgeon with excellent knowledge of the anatomy of the area and experience in such operations.
Are there any latest developments in the surgical techniques used?
In recent years, my team and I have developed the one-cut technique. It is a special surgical technique, which – with a single incision – restores the image and functionality of the vulva, contributing to the remodeling of unwanted malformations painlessly and without signs. The operation is performed in a special area within the clinic and lasts 1 to 2 hours. This option has received many positive reviews from many of our patients who had their image changed immediately, quickly and safely.
Are there any common complications after the surgery?
Vaginal rejuvenation is a safe method, which does not present complications. However, in the event that the woman feels a possible minor discomfort in the operated area, she can immediately contact the doctor, who will suggest taking analgesic drugs. In rare cases, there may be a small swelling for a few days after surgery, which completely subsides, very soon.
What should a woman pay attention to after vaginal rejuvenation? When can she start having sex?
The return to daily activities is almost immediate. On the same day, the woman can drive or take a bath, and she can return to work the next day. Finally, abstinence from intense physical exercise is recommended for 7-10 days and cessation of sexual intercourses for 20-25 days after surgery.
Are the results of the operation permanent?
Yes, the results are visible right after the surgery and are permanent.
Can vaginal rejuvenation be combined with other treatments?
Of course. Our Clinic offers a variety of other treatments and procedures on the field Aesthetic Gynecology, aiming at the rejuvenation and the appearance of the sensitive area. Depending on the needs and desires of each woman, vaginal rejuvenation can be combined with treatments such as Vaginoplasty, Large Labia Regeneration with fat or hyaluronic acid transfer, G-Spot enlargement, clitoral plastic surgery or genital area whitening.
