Vaginal Rejuvenation

Vaginal rejuvenation is a term that encompasses both functional and cosmetic procedures of the labia majora, labia minora, perineum, and vaginal canal. Vaginal rejuvenation is really a marketing term for vaginoplasty – which does cause surgical tightening or narrowing of the vaginal canal. This procedure strengthens the pelvic floor muscles which may have been damaged and stretched by childbirth, trauma, and/or age. When the pelvic floor muscles lose their strength and tone and become too relaxed, it may decrease the sensation felt by both the man and the woman during sexual intercourse. Vaginoplasty usually enhances sexual satisfaction and pleasure for both partners.

The phrase vaginal rejuvenation also encompasses the term labiaplasty, vulvoplasty, clitoral hood reduction, and hymenoplasty. Labiaplasty refers to the trimming of excess tissue of the labia minora (aka the lips of the vagina). Some women are so bothered by the appearance of the labia minora, that this affects them psychologically and may interfere with their intimate relationships. Some women are too embarrassed to discuss this matter with friends, family, or their partners. An enlarged labia minora may cause discomfort when wearing certain clothes, or even during exercising.

Vulvoplasty refers to the reduction of excess or loose tissue of the labia majora. Clitoral hood reduction refers to removal of the excess skin on the sides of the clitoris. This procedure does NOT mutilate the clitoris or affect the clitoral nerves since the clitoris itself is never touched. Women may choose this procedure because they feel their clitoris appears too large and bulky, which is usually due to genetics but may be caused by exposure to hormones such as testosterone.

Hymenoplasty refers to the reapproximation of the remnants of the hymenal ring. This procedure is performed to make the patient appear virginal again. This may be done for cultural, religious, or social reasons.