Cosmetic procedures to improve the appearance of the female genitalia are increasing in popularity amongst the plastic surgery community, but they are typically not spoken about as openly as other cosmetic procedures. Through female genital rejuvenation surgery, women are able to achieve enhanced appearance, improved self-esteem, and increased confidence during intimate settings.
About Female Cosmetic Surgery with Dr. Ennis
The female genitalia follows a consistent basic anatomy, but the appearance between women can vary. Further, the external genitalia appearance can be affected by genetics, aging, hormones, childbirth and weight changes.
To learn about female cosmetic surgery, please read the guide below or contact Ennis Plastic Surgery at 561-405-9020 to book a consultation or ask us a question. We are here to help you get the look you desire.
About the Female Genitalia
In order better understand the female rejuvenation procedures, it is important to have a basic understanding of the anatomical components of the female genitalia.
1. Vulva: The external female genitalia2. Mons pubis: The rounded, soft, fatty tissue that is located above the pubic bone3. Labia majora: The outer labia that protect the structures of the female genitalia. The labia majora are soft, fleshy folds of skin and are naturally covered with pubic hair.4. Labia minora: The inner labia of thin and hairless smooth skin that surrounds the opening to the vagina5. Clitoris: The region that is highly sensitive during intimate encounters. It is generally pea sized and located at the front of the vulva, where the two labia minora meet.6. Clitoral hood: Anatomically, known as the prepuce. It is the skin that covers the clitoris, protecting it.7. Vagina: The canal that joins the uterus to the outside of the body. This is the birthing canal for childbirth.
Changes in the Female Genitalia
One of the most common life events that can negatively impact the appearance of a woman’s genitalia is childbirth. Unfortunately, the wondrous act of childbirth can bring about some unwanted and lasting changes to the female anatomy. These changes include: stretching of the vaginal wall and elongation of labia minora, weakening of the pelvic floor musculature, and even protrusion of vaginal tissues. In addition, childbirth can result in tearing of the pelvic floor, causing unwanted scarring and discomfort.
Aging can contribute to sagging or stretched genital structures, particularly for the labia minora. The pelvic floor musculature can lose strength, allowing for protrusion of the vaginal wall through the vaginal opening. The labia majora can lose fullness and volume, giving the area a sunken or sagging appearance. In addition, aging and pregnancies can contribute to a loss of muscle tone and elasticity in the abdomen and result in abdominal laxity and sagging of the mons pubis.
The good news is that advanced cosmetic surgical procedures can restore the form, function and appearance of the female genitalia and surrounding area.
The ideal candidate for female genital rejuvenation surgeries include women who are concerned about:
- Laxity in the vaginal canal
- Changes to the external appearance of the vulva
- Elongation of the labia minora
- Discomfort during exercise or intercourse caused by redundant labial tissues
- Sagging or bulging fatty tissue above the pubic bone
- Scarred or misshapen genital structures
- Inability to wear certain items of clothing due to protruding or elongated genital structures
Female rejuvenation surgeries at Ennis Plastic Surgery include the following procedures:
Labiaplasty
Labiaplasty changes selected tissues of the labia, most often by reducing the labia minora. Labial size and shape vary naturally. Discuss your specific symptoms or concerns, alternatives, scars and the possibility of persistent discomfort or changes in sensation.
Vaginoplasty
Hoodectomy
Mons pubis rejuvenation
The mons pubis is naturally rounded, soft and comprised of fatty tissue, located above the pubic bone. Some women can develop a sagging mons pubis, particularly after pregnancy and weight gain. Other women have excess fatty tissue in the mons pubis, causing a bulging pubic region. Through cosmetic rejuvenation, the surgeon is able to elevate the mons pubis and reduce any excess bulging. Elevation of the mons pubis is often combined with other procedures such as abdominoplasties, liposuction and C-Section scar revisions as these areas are often affected together and need to be addressed together.
Female Genital Rejuvenation Results
Women may choose to have one surgical procedure or a combination of several procedures, depending on the structures affected and the goals of surgery. These procedures are performed on an outpatient basis with general anesthesia, in order to ensure patient comfort throughout. Patients can experience mild swelling and mild discomfort for the first several weeks after surgery, but most people can return to work activities within one week. Vigorous exercise and sexual intercourse is not appropriate for approximately six weeks, in order to ensure proper and complete healing of the structures involved.
Cosmetic female genital rejuvenation procedures can give women greater comfort and self confidence during intimate encounters, as well as increased comfort during exercise and while wearing tight fitting clothes or bathing suits. The procedures can give women greater self-confidence and appreciation of their female body.
About Dr. Scott Ennis
Dr. Ennis’ personal motto states “life is a journey – you should make it the best story ever.” This inspiring mantra is one that he is happy to share with his patients. He loves to help his patients renew their own vigor for life and find the confidence to live their lives to the fullest.
Limitations and risks
Genital appearance varies naturally. Surgery does not guarantee improved sexual function or comfort. Risks include bleeding, infection, scarring, changes in sensation, pain with intercourse and the need for further surgery. Symptoms such as pelvic floor problems deserve an appropriate medical evaluation.
Learn more in the ACOG guidance on elective female genital cosmetic surgery.
