Female Genital Aesthetics

Understanding Female Genital Aesthetics

Female genital aesthetic operations are surgical procedures designed to address functional or cosmetic concerns related to the genital area. Women may seek these procedures for a variety of reasons, including issues present from birth, changes resulting from childbirth, or the natural effects of aging. Problems such as asymmetry, sagging, or functional discomfort can negatively affect a woman's physical comfort, self-confidence, and sex life. While this can be a sensitive topic, it's important to know that significant, positive changes can often be achieved with very small and precise surgical interventions.

Common Genital Aesthetic Procedures

These operations can be performed individually or, in some cases, combined to address multiple concerns at once. The primary procedures include:

1. Labiaplasty (Inner Lip Reduction)

This surgical procedure is performed to reduce or reshape the inner lips of the vagina (labia minora). Some women experience physical discomfort or self-consciousness due to the size, shape, or asymmetry of their labia. While the size of a normal person’s labia is around 1.5 cm, some patients seeking this procedure have labia that are approximately 4 cm or larger. During the procedure, sensory organs are carefully protected while the excess tissue is removed to create the desired appearance.

2. Vaginoplasty (Vaginal Tightening)

This is a surgical procedure used to correct increased elasticity and wideness of the vaginal canal, which often results from the stretching that occurs during pregnancy and childbirth. This issue can be effectively resolved by narrowing the vagina with a simple surgical procedure, which can enhance friction and sexual satisfaction.

3. Labial Puff (Fat Injections)

With advancing age or after significant weight loss, the outer vaginal lips (labia majora) and the pubic area can lose fat tissue, leading to a thinned or sagging appearance. This procedure involves taking a small amount of fat from another part of the patient’s body (such as the abdomen or thighs), purifying it, and then carefully injecting it into the outer lips. This restores volume and creates a fuller, more youthful appearance.

4. Hymen Reconstruction (Hymenoplasty)

This procedure surgically repairs a torn hymen using dissolvable stitches. The primary goal is to reconstruct the hymen's former anatomical structure to ensure bleeding occurs during the first instance of sexual intercourse following the procedure. The success of the operation can depend on factors like the timing of the original tear and how the tissue responds to treatment.

The Surgical Procedure: What to Expect

These are delicate surgical interventions that need to be performed in a sterile operating theatre.

• Anesthesia: Depending on the specific procedure and patient preference, the operation can be performed under general anesthetic, local anesthetic, or sedation.
• Duration: Most genital aesthetic operations last between 1 to 2 hours.

Recovery and Aftercare

The recovery process for most genital aesthetic operations is typically straightforward.

• Pain and Discharge: Most procedures are not very painful, and any discomfort that does occur can be easily managed with painkillers. Patients are usually able to return home the same day as the operation.
• Hygiene and Care:
  • You can typically shower 2 days after the procedure.
  • For procedures like labiaplasty or vaginoplasty, it is necessary to clean the area with a special antiseptic solution as directed by your surgeon.
  • Extra care should be taken when sitting down and standing up to avoid putting pressure on the healing area.
• Abstinence: Sexual relations should be avoided for at least 3 weeks to allow for proper healing. The recommended period of abstinence for hymen reconstruction cases may be different, and you should follow your surgeon's specific advice.