Lately, there’s been a rise in the number of women opting for female rejuvenation, driven by desires to improve comfort, aesthetics, or resolve personal issues. Two such procedures that are often discussed are vaginal rejuvenation and labiaplasty.
Interest in enhancing the appearance and function of female genitalia has significantly increased. According to the American Urological Association, labiaplasty rates rose worldwide by 45% from 2014 to 2015 and by more than 50% in the US from 2014 to 2018. The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) reported that approximately 12,756 surgeries were performed in 2018, costing over $53 million. ASAPS also predicts a 53% increase in the number of labiaplasties over the last 5 years. While they are sometimes mentioned interchangeably, they serve different purposes and have distinct methodologies. Understanding the nuances between them can help women make informed decisions about which procedure might be appropriate for their needs.
Vaginal Rejuvenation
Vaginal rejuvenation encompasses a range of treatments designed to tighten the vagina, enhance its appearance, and improve comfort. These treatments, both surgical and non-surgical, include procedures such as vaginoplasty or vaginal lift, perineoplasty, and laser therapy, focusing on rejuvenating both internal and external vaginal areas.
Vaginal rejuvenation helps with issues like loss of elasticity and strength from childbirth, aging, or genetics. This can cause incontinence, dryness, sagging skin, and less sexual pleasure. Many women choose these treatments to improve the appearance and function of their vagina.
These treatments also minimize symptoms such as:
- Loose vaginal skin
- Urine leakage during activities like jumping, sneezing, or laughing
- Difficulty in controlling urine
- Reduced sexual desire
- Increased dryness
- Pain during intercourse
- Diminished sensation and sexual satisfaction
- Decreased confidence or self-esteem
Labiaplasty
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure focused on the reduction and reshaping of the labia minora and/or labia majora, enhancing the symmetry and appearance of the external genitalia. While primarily aesthetic, labiaplasty can alleviate physical discomfort caused by excess tissue. People often seek this procedure to address issues such as irritation, chafing, or pain during physical activities and intimacy. By improving the structure and aesthetics, labiaplasty helps individuals regain comfort and confidence.
Labiaplasty may assist in addressing a variety of additional symptoms, including:
- Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Discomfort wearing tight clothing or during certain physical activities
- Visible asymmetry or irregularity in the labia
- Emotional distress related to body image or self-esteem
- Increased anxiety or tension during intimate encounters
- Impact on sexual relationships due to physical discomfort or dissatisfaction
When discussing female genital procedures, it’s important to understand the distinction between procedures such as labiaplasty versus vulvectomy. They serve entirely different purposes; labiaplasty focuses on aesthetic enhancement of the labia, while vulvectomy involves the surgical removal of all or part of the vulva, typically due to medical conditions such as cancer.
Surgical Technique
Vaginal Rejuvenation
Depending on the desired outcome, vaginal rejuvenation can involve surgical methods such as vaginoplasty or non-surgical treatments like laser therapy. The non-surgical options often use energy-based devices to promote collagen production, while surgical methods involve more invasive techniques to tighten the vaginal muscles and surrounding tissues.
Labiaplasty
Labiaplasty is typically performed using either the “trim” or “wedge” excision technique. The procedure is minimally invasive, usually performed under local anesthesia, and involves the removal of excess tissue to achieve a more symmetric appearance. Dissolvable sutures are used, and incisions are made in natural creases to minimize visible scarring.
Recovery Time and Post-Procedure Care
Vaginal Rejuvenation
Recovery can vary significantly depending on whether the procedure is surgical or non-surgical. Non-surgical methods generally have minimal downtime, whereas surgical methods like vaginoplasty may require several weeks for full recovery. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities and sexual intercourse during the recovery period.
Labiaplasty
Most patients undergoing labiaplasty experience only mild swelling and bruising, with a recovery period of about two weeks. Post-procedure care includes rest, use of pain medication, and avoiding activities that may strain the surgical site.
Risks and Side Effects
Vaginal Rejuvenation
Potential risks include pain, scarring, infection, and changes in sensation. Non-surgical methods, like laser treatments, have been reported to cause burns and long-term discomfort in some cases.
Labiaplasty
Labiaplasty is considered a low-risk procedure with potential side effects such as swelling, bruising, and minor discomfort. Serious complications are rare but may include infection or changes in sensation.
Both vaginal rejuvenation and labiaplasty offer unique benefits and cater to different needs. If you seek improved vaginal aesthetics and comfort, vaginal rejuvenation might be suitable for you. However, if your concerns are more centered around labial symmetry and size, labiaplasty could be the ideal choice.
Consulting with a qualified plastic surgeon is crucial to understand the risks, benefits, and suitability of each procedure for your individual circumstances. For more information on plastic surgery in Richmond or to schedule a consultation, contact Kitto Plastic Surgery by calling (804) 294-1777 or request an appointment here.