Vaginal Rejuvenation

Overview 

Vaginal rejuvenation refers to a variety of corrective procedures aimed at restoring the appearance and function of the vagina. Factors such as childbirth, aging, and genetics can cause the vagina and surrounding tissues to lose elasticity and strength. This can result in issues like urinary incontinence, vaginal dryness, sagging skin, and reduced sexual pleasure. Many individuals, including women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB), seek vaginal rejuvenation to address these concerns. 

There are both surgical and nonsurgical options available for vaginal rejuvenation. Surgical procedures often involve tightening the vaginal walls or altering the appearance of the labia, while nonsurgical treatments may use laser or radiofrequency technology to stimulate collagen production and improve tissue health. These options can help enhance comfort, function, and appearance, depending on the individual’s needs.  

Reasons for undergoing the procedure  

Individuals seek vaginal rejuvenation to address common concerns related to childbirth or menopause, such as vaginal looseness, reduced lubrication, and diminished sexual intimacy.

This treatment can help alleviate these symptoms and also:  

• The skin around the vagina is loose.  
• Urinating while laughing, sneezing, or leaping.  
• Being unable to contain your urination.  
• A drop in desire.  
• An extreme lack of moisture.  
• Sex that hurts.  
• A reduction in sexual pleasure and sensation.  
• Insufficient self-esteem or lack of confidence.  

Types of vaginal rejuvenation  

Vaginal rejuvenation procedures can be either noninvasive or surgical. These treatments can affect both the vaginal canal, which is where a tampon is inserted or penetration occurs during intercourse, and the vulva, the external part of the female genitalia.  

Surgical methods of vaginal rejuvenation  

Anesthesia or sedation is commonly used during surgical vaginal rejuvenation procedures, which are typically performed by plastic surgeons or gynecologists. These procedures include: 

• Labiaplasty: Reshapes the labia (the “lips” of the vagina). 
• Vaginoplasty: Tightens or repairs the vaginal canal, often following childbirth. 
• Clitoral hood reduction: Removes excess tissue covering the clitoris. 
• Monsplasty: Removes excess fatty tissue from the pubic area. 
• Vulvoplasty: Reshapes the vulva (the external genitalia). 
• Perineoplasty: Strengthens the perineum, the area between the vagina and anus.

These surgical methods aim to enhance both function and appearance. 

Nonsurgical methods of vaginal rejuvenation  

Vaginal rejuvenation techniques that don’t require surgery are noninvasive and require little recovery time. They assist in toning and tightening your vagina without the need for surgery or needles. The top layers of vaginal tissue are heated as part of a nonsurgical vaginal rejuvenation procedure. The underlying tissue produces more collagen and new, firmer tissue as a result.  

Treatment without surgery consists of:  

• CO2 Laser Treatment: This procedure uses a laser to heat the upper layers of vaginal tissue, stimulating the lower layers to produce more collagen. This results in firmer, tighter skin. 
• RF (Radio Frequency) Treatment: RF treatment employs electromagnetic waves, similar to those used in microwaves but at lower intensities. These waves heat vaginal tissue, boosting blood flow and collagen production. Both RF and laser treatments are typically performed in an office setting with minimal or no local anesthesia required. Most people can resume their daily activities immediately after the procedure with little to no recovery time needed.  

Risks 

Not every vaginal rejuvenation procedure has been shown to be secure or efficient. Vaginal rejuvenation carries a number of concerns, including an elevated chance of surgical treatments:  

• Bleeding  
• Infection  
• Scarring  
• Pain  
• Dyspareunia or pain during sexual intercourse  

During the procedure  

Surgical vaginal rejuvenation  

The specifics of the procedure will vary depending on the type of surgery. Initially, you’ll consult with a surgeon to discuss your symptoms and the goals you have for the surgery. This is an opportunity to ask questions and learn about the potential risks and benefits of the procedure. 

Most vaginal rejuvenation surgeries take between one and two hours, though the exact duration depends on the specific procedure, the extent of the work required, and the surgeon’s techniques. Generally, these surgeries are performed under general anesthesia in an outpatient setting. Once you are anesthetized, the surgeon makes incisions on the vulva or inside the vagina, and then closes them with dissolvable stitches.  

After the surgery, your surgeon will provide you with post-operative care instructions, including any activity restrictions such as abstaining from sex. You may use ice packs and pain relievers to manage discomfort. As you will be under anesthesia, you will not feel pain during the surgery itself. 

Ensure you fully understand the treatment process and associated risks before consenting to surgery. Adhering to post-operative instructions is crucial to avoid complications and ensure proper healing. 

Laser vaginal rejuvenation  

In this type of vaginal rejuvenation, tightening and toning are achieved by inserting a probe (or wand) into the vagina or guiding it over the external genitals. The probe features a light-emitting end that heats the tissue. Your doctor will rotate the wand or use gentle strokes to ensure even heat distribution to the targeted areas. 

Laser or radiofrequency (RF) vaginal rejuvenation treatments typically last between five and 30 minutes, depending on the type and intensity of the laser or RF waves, as well as the specific procedure being performed. This nonsurgical method is generally painless and does not require anesthesia, although a topical anesthetic may be applied if necessary. During the procedure, you might feel a warm sensation or a sensation akin to a mild bee sting. 

After treatment, it’s important to avoid sexual activity and tampon use for three to five days. Be sure to follow all post-procedure instructions provided by your doctor to achieve the best results. You may experience some redness or swelling afterward, but these symptoms usually subside within 24 to 48 hours. Multiple treatments may be needed to reach your desired results.  

Outcome 

As with most cosmetic procedures, the results of vaginal rejuvenation can vary significantly. Some treatments may be controversial and may not have strong scientific support.  

For nonsurgical treatments, it is advisable to avoid sexual activity for at least three to five days and to check for any signs of infection or bleeding before resuming intercourse. Additionally, refrain from using tampons or inserting anything into the vagina during the recovery period. 

Surgical treatments may necessitate abstaining from sexual activity for several weeks until the area has healed and any stitches have dissolved. Always adhere to the specific recovery instructions provided by your surgeon or doctor. 

The need for multiple sessions and the temporary nature of results can differ. Laser and RF treatments often require several sessions, and their results are not permanent. While surgical procedures may offer longer-lasting outcomes, there is no guarantee that the results will be everlasting.