Randy A. Birken, MD
Fellow, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologist
Clinical Assistant Professor, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
The expansion of aesthetic surgery to gynecology may conjure confusion and perhaps some laughter, but to a woman who experiences vaginal looseness, urinary leakage, and reduced pleasure during intimacy, there is nothing amusing about it at all. Added to this problem is the stretching or elongation of the labia, or lips, or the external genitalia, further emphasis by the liberal exposure of female nudeness and what models, actresses, and “sexual workers” promote as female organ beauty. Beyond just the appearance of the external genitalia comes the discomfort of exercise, problems wearing tight clothing, and diminished self-esteem. First laser vaginal rejuvenation: a combination of several surgical techniques that tighten and restore vaginal anatomy to pre-childbirth conditions, hence improving sexual response as well as correcting both urinary and rectal dysfunction and the discomfort of pelvic prolapse. Meticulous in detail, the outpatient procedure takes about one and half hours to complete with minimal postoperative pain, bleeding, or prolonged recovery. After six weeks, patients may engage in coitus with improve sexual responses for both partners. Designer Laser Vaginoplasty: a precise laser reconstruction of the labia and the prepuce that supports the clitoris, resulting in a clean and aesthetically enhanced appearance as well as elimination of discomfort during exercise, particularly for those women who cycle, run long distances, or horseback ride. As a bonus, most women state improved clitoral pleasure now that the anatomy as been corrected. As with laser vaginal rejuvenation, the recovery time is quick and with minimal pain and completely healed by six weeks.
Combination Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation and Laser Designer Labiaplasty
Many women choose to do both procedures under one anesthetic to accomplish both vaginal and labial restoration. While surgical time is longer, recovery and discomfort is not appreciably increased postoperatively. The evolution of cosmetic surgery to gynecologic problems makes sense and provides a safe and effective treatment for women who, in the past, would feel ashamed to discuss such concerns with their physician. However, a woman who seeks this type of surgery must do her homework and research gynecologists who have had additional training in cosmetic gynecology rather than their general obstetrician and gynecologist who has not had the additional tutelage in this highly specialized form of female surgery.