Vaginal rejuvenation: everything you need to know

Vaginal rejuvenation is the name given to a set of procedures designed to change the appearance of the female external genitalia. The goal is to provide a more youthful appearance. Some claim that it would also have positive health effects.

This type of procedure is applied to the internal labia, the external labia or both.. The demand for vaginal rejuvenation operations has grown dramatically in recent years. The motivations for carrying out these operations are multiple and diverse.

Why is vaginal rejuvenation done?

In general terms, vaginal rejuvenation is done to correct or improve the balance or appearance of a vagina relaxed. This vaginal relaxation takes place when this area has lost elasticity and control over the muscles that compose it has been reduced.

Vaginal relaxation is a problem that particularly affects menopausal women. This is because from the age of 30 collagen production is reduced and this is accentuated over time. This condition can cause physical and psychological discomfort in many women.

Another cause of vaginal relaxation is childbirth, especially if forceps were used or the baby was very large. Being overweight can have the same effect. This makes the diameter of the vagina increases and causes discomfort such as:

• Decreased sexual pleasure.
• Involuntary leakage of urine or urinary incontinence.
• Dryness and irritation.
• In the most severe cases, there is discomfort when doing physical activities.
• Sometimes there is discomfort when wearing certain items such as bathing suits or pants.

What types of vaginal rejuvenation are there?

To perform vaginal rejuvenation there are several procedures. The choice of the most suitable will depend on the desired effect and, of course, the evaluation of the doctor. The main ones are the following:

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Labiaplasty

It is carried out for improve the appearance of the labia minora and older when they are very large or flaccid. This can interfere with intimate hygiene and the enjoyment of sexual intercourse. Surgery reduces size and sagging.

Vulvar lipoplasty

The objective of this procedure is eliminate excess fat cells in the vulva. In particular, in the upper area of ​​the labia majora and on the mons pubis. With this, the vagina has a more attractive outer contour.

Labiaplasty augmentation

It is a liposculpture procedure in which fat is injected into the skin of the lips. The objective is to reduce wrinkles and smooth the skin in the area, as well as increase the thickness of the skin so that the vagina acquires a more youthful appearance.

Perineoplasty

This procedure is applied to the perineum; that is, the area that goes from the lower part of the vagina to the anus. This area is often affected by traumatic deliveries. The intervention allows to recover the elasticity of the tissues and improves the appearance. This increases the pleasure during sexual intercourse.

Vaginoplasty

This surgery strengthens the muscles of the vagina, removes excess tissues and reduces the diameter of the vagina. Likewise, excess vaginal mucosa is removed and the pelvic floor is strengthened, so that the vagina acquires more firmness.

Minimally invasive procedures

To perform vaginal rejuvenation there are also minimally invasive procedures that may be the best alternative, depending on the case. They are as follows:

• With radio frequency. There are electromagnetic waves that generate heat and reshape the collagen fibers. This increases the elasticity of the vaginal area.
• Fraxelated laser. Promotes the restoration of collagen and elastin. This helps reduce urinary incontinence and improves lubrication of the vagina.
• Yag laser. Increases the elasticity of the neck of the vagina and bladder; improves lubrication.

What risks are there?

Many physicians have raised concerns about the growing demand for vaginal rejuvenation procedures. So far, there is no strong evidence that they are safe and effective.

Among the possible complications that may arise there are alterations in sensation, infections, adhesions, dyspaurenia and scars. These may be very high risks, considering that these procedures may not be effective.

In premenopausal women who undergo these types of procedures there may be complications when entering menopause. In this stage, the tissues in the area are naturally thinned. Therefore, if there is minimal prolapse and procedures are applied to narrow or thin the area, after menopause everything can be aggravated.

Also, the tension in the area and the reduction of the diameter of the vagina sometimes lead to painful intercourse. Doctors, in general, are more supportive of methods that are not as invasive, such as Kegel exercises.

Factors to consider

It is important to be clear about the reasons for wanting vaginal rejuvenation procedures. In addition, it is advisable to speak frankly with the doctor and formulate realistic expectations regarding the intervention.

It is important to take into consideration the aspects that each woman will face, before and after the procedure. They are discussed below.

Before the procedure

The duration of the procedure varies, depending on the type of procedure, but it can be an average of one hour. Except for minimally invasive methods, These are outpatient surgeries that will require epidural or general anesthesia.

The following points should be taken into account:

• Preoperative assessment clinical examinations should be performed.
• The most appropriate thing is to have the surgery as soon as the menstruation ends. This facilitates healing and reduces the risk of infection.
• The patient must fast for 12 hours before the procedure.

• The risk of infection is prevented with a prescription for antibiotics.
• Recovery takes three to four days.

After vaginal rejuvenation

It is important to follow the medical indications rigorously after the procedure. In particular, not to resume normal activities until the time allotted for it has ended.

Alcohol and tobacco use can negatively influence recovery. It is best to avoid smoking a few weeks before and a few weeks after the procedure. This prevents the appearance of thicker and darker scars; In addition, it speeds up recovery time.

It is best to wear loose and comfortable clothing; that is, avoid tight clothing. The doctor will indicate when it is possible to resume sexual intercourse, something that can rarely be done before four weeks after surgery.

Vaginal rejuvenation is not without risks

All surgery involves risks and this is no exception. Therefore, it is best to carefully evaluate the reasons why a woman has this procedure. There may be unrealistic and unrealistic expectations around appearance.

It is necessary ask the doctor all the questions that are considered necessary without any inhibition. Being informed is not only a right, but also a duty. It is best to have enough evidence to make the most correct decision.