Vaginoplasty

After childbirth the vaginal muscles are stretched and, although postnatal physiotherapy and exercises can help, the vagina often does not regain its normal tone and remains lax. This can cause dissatisfaction for both partners during sexual intercourse.

The perineal body (the muscle between the vagina and the anus) can also be damaged by childbirth which results in the entrance to the vagina gaping open.

Vaginoplasty, or vaginal rejuvenation, is a procedure that corrects these problems resulting in a tighter feel, both inside and at the entrance to the vagina.

When can I resume sexual intercourse?

Sexual activity can be resumed 4-6 weeks after the procedure.

When can I exercise?

Gentle exercise can usually be resumed 2-4 weeks after surgery.

When can I drive a car?

You should be comfortable enough to drive after 2 weeks but you should always check with your insurance company first.

When can I go back to work?

You would be able to return to work usually after 2-4 weeks.

Aftercare

After discharge from the hospital you can call the hospital day or night for any advice and, should the need arise, you can visit the hospital to see the resident doctor. In the event of a complication directly related to your surgery which may require further treatment, your surgeon and hospital will provide all necessary care without further cost (exclusions apply).

You will be seen by your surgeon for a follow up visit after six weeks and you will be given detailed information about your care during the immediate post operative period.

What are the risks

All surgical procedures carry some risk. Your surgeon will discuss these in detail with you at your consultation.

Additional information

Duration of Surgery: 45 minutes.

Hospital Stay: 24 hours (approximate)

Anaesthesia: General

Recovery Period: 2-4 weeks (approximate)

As with all surgery there is always a small risk of complications. Infection is minimised by antibiotics given at the time of surgery but if infection does occur this will cause discomfort and delay healing.

The stitches used for vaginoplasty are similar to those used after childbirth and dissolve naturally after 5-7 days. They do not usually need to be removed. Excess scar tissue can form which may occasionally cause the vagina to become too narrow and this can cause discomfort with intercourse. Some women also complain of loss of sensation at the entrance to the vagina due to damage to the sensitive nerve endings in the area.

Most women, however, find that the results of surgery are very satisfactory and their sexual function and pleasure is enhanced after vaginoplasty.

Click here for a list of Plastic and Cosmetic Specialists at Westmead Private Hospital.