What is the difference between vaginoplasty and labiaplasty surgery ?

Vaginoplasty is a procedure which tightens the inner canal and mucous membranes of the vagina to pre-pregnancy or virginal level. Reconstruction of the anterior and posterior vaginal walls can help also with bladder position and help with post-pregnancy incontinence. Vaginoplasty is often performed at the same time as labiaplasty, resulting in both inner and outer vaginal tightness and is performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. Patients who have noticeable muscle strength weakness or incontinence as a result of pregnancy, weight loss and sometimes heredity are candidates for vaginoplasty surgery. A lot of time patients ask if vaginoplasty surgery and abdominoplasty or tummy tuck surgery can be performed at the same time. The answer is yes. The vaginal floor and anterior wall of the vagina near the urethra is tightened to address vaginal looseness, decreased vaginal sensation, vaginismus (spasms of the vaginal muscles that inhibit a woman to engage in sexual intercourse, use tampons or have a PAP smear or other vaginal test performed) or previous effects of episiotomy. A small incision is made at the base of the vagina which when fully healed, is nearly undetectable.

While the vaginoplasty procedure addresses the way the vagina feels, a labiaplasty transforms the appearance of the vaginal area. Labiaplasty is a procedure that shapes the folds of skin (labia minora and labia majora) surrounding the vulva to a more symmetrical and tighter position. The size and shape of the labia can change after childbirth, genital piercings or trauma and as the elasticity of skin begins to deteriorate with age, the skin folds begin to hang lower and become elongated. This can cause embarrassment or discomfort during intercourse, while exercising or noticeability when wearing form-fitting clothes or bathing suits. Small incisions are made within the folds of the labia and excess skin is removed before dissolvable sutures are used for closure.
For more information regarding cost, recovery and frequently asked questions, please refer to the procedures tab of our webpage.

You should address your concerns with your plastic surgeon to find out if you are a candidate for vaginoplasty or labiaplasty surgery. If you have questions or concerns regarding these procedures or any others, please feel free to contact our office at (925)939-9200.