Vaginoplasty can mean a lot of different things, but in general, it’s a procedure to construct or repair the vagina.

The details of the procedure depend on your goals or medical needs and include reconstruction or recreation of the vagina using various surgical techniques.

Who needs vaginoplasty?

• Individuals seeking repair of childbirth defects or trauma to improve sexual function.
• Women who need vaginal reconstruction after undergoing radiation or excision of the vagina to treat cancer or other conditions.
• Transgender individuals undergoing gender affirmation surgery.
• Women born with congenital abnormalities (issues present from birth) affecting the development of the vagina.

Is vaginoplasty the same as vaginal rejuvenation?

Vaginoplasty is one type of procedure to improve the vagina’s appearance or function. Other vaginal rejuvenation procedures include:

• Labiaplasty, which evens out or decreases the size of the labia — the fleshy lobes of the vagina.
• Vulvoplasty, which reshapes the outer part of the vagina.

What happens during vaginoplasty performed for women with childbirth injuries?

When vaginoplasty is done to repair injuries after childbirth, the procedure involves:

• Removing extra skin.
• Using stitches to secure loose tissue in part or the full depth of your vagina.
• Reducing the opening size of your vagina.

Vaginoplasty to repair congenital defects (an issue you’re born with) may include:

• Creating a functional vagina.
• Removing excess tissue or abnormal structures.
• Preventing blood from pooling during menstruation.

What are the risks and benefits of vaginoplasty?

Risks after vaginoplasty for childbirth injuries can include:

• Dyspareunia (painful intercourse).
• Numbness or loss of sensation.

Benefits after surgery can include:

• Improved sexual satisfaction and self-esteem.

What is recovery like after vaginoplasty?

Recovery may last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the extent of surgery. Postsurgical care after vaginoplasty depends on the type of vaginoplasty performed and should be advised by your operating surgeon.