It’s no secret childbirth can leave women wondering if their bodies will ever feel like they did pre-baby again. The subject is still relatively taboo in some social circles, and many don’t feel comfortable discussing the topic or asking questions. After several stars of the television series The Real Housewives underwent vaginal rejuvenation procedures and were very open about them, many women found themselves wondering how it all works and if the procedure could help them, too.
What Is Vaginal Rejuvenation?
The most basic explanation is that a vaginal rejuvenation procedure can help tighten the outside, inside or both areas of the vagina, said Dr. Christy Walker, a gynecologist and board-certified cosmetic surgeon serving the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.
“Vaginal rejuvenation involves the surgical tightening of the vaginal muscles and the outer contouring of the labia to help achieve a more youthful appearance and feel to the whole area,” Walker said.
At Walker’s practice, a vaginal rejuvenation is a combination of two cosmetic surgeries: vaginoplasty and labiaplasty. A vaginoplasty surgically brings the muscles of the vagina back together to tighten and restore the vaginal canal to its pre-childbirth size and strength. A labiaplasty reduces the length of the labia minora, more commonly referred to as the vaginal lips.
The term vaginal rejuvenation has actually become more of a blanket term to describe a number of plastic surgeries and even non-invasive procedures that involve the female genitals. Other procedures sometimes performed as part of a vaginal rejuvenation include clitoral hood reduction, labia majorplasty, monsplasty and even a pubic lift.
“For those looking for a less invasive way to rejuvenate the vagina, a laser treatment is a great alternative,” Walker said. “It helps address things like dryness, pain and even looseness and requires no down time or recovery time.”
Who Is a Good Candidate for the Procedure?
The ideal candidate for a vaginal rejuvenation is one who has had children and does not plan on having more children in the future. It’s also important to be in good health, Walker said.
“Women who feel self-conscious about the appearance or function of their vagina should absolutely seek a consultation with a vaginal cosmetic surgeon,” she said. “They can tell you exactly what kind of procedure you would benefit from most.”
Is It Just for Cosmetic Purposes?
This is a common misunderstanding when it comes to vaginal rejuvenation. Although some women do choose to have vaginal surgery for cosmetic reasons, many also have procedures done for medical reasons.
“A large number of women experience leaks when laughing or sneezing after childbirth,” Walker said. “Vaginal rejuvenation helps these women gain control back over their own bodies.”
