Introduction to Vaginal Repair Surgeries
Vaginal repair surgeries, also known as vaginal rejuvenation or vaginoplasty, are types of surgical procedures that aim to improve the aesthetics and function of the vagina. In recent years, vaginal repair surgeries have become popular as they improve vaginal health, increase sexual satisfaction, boost self-confidence, and enhance overall quality of life.
Although there’re several types of surgeries that target each concern, this article will focus on three types of vaginal repair surgeries available in Dubai. They’re anterior vaginal repair, posterior vaginal repair, and perineorrhaphy vaginal tightening.
3 Types of Vaginal Repair Surgeries
Anterior Vaginal Repair
Anterior vaginal repair, also known as anterior colporrhaphy, is a surgical procedure that’s carried out to repair or strengthen the fascial support layer [a thin casing of connective tissue that surrounds and supports every organ, blood vessel, bone, muscle, etc., in place] between the bladder and the front wall of the vagina.
Typically, the anterior vaginal repair is performed to treat anterior wall prolapse, also known as cystocele or dropped bladder, a condition where the bladder falls out of its usual position and protrudes to the front of the vagina.
What Happens During Anterior Vaginal Repair
Although the specific steps of anterior vaginal repair may vary according to each surgeon’s expertise, whether the mesh is used, and the severity of the prolapse, here’s a general description of the surgery:
- The surgery is performed under deep sedation.
- Once anesthesia is induced, an incision is made along the center of the front wall of the vagina, starting near the vaginal entrance and ending at the top of the vagina.
- Then, the vaginal mucosa is separated from the supporting fascial layer.
- The weakened fascia is then repaired using absorbable stitches. Absorbable stitches, also known as dissolvable stitches, are stitches that naturally dissolve into the body as the wound heals. Typically, these stitches will be absorbed within four weeks to five months, depending on the type of stitches used.
- The surgery ends with closing the incision with another set of stitches.
The choice of anesthesia and the requirement for additional procedures like bladder repositioning or vaginal tissue removal will depend on individual conditions. Typically, the recovery period for this surgery is between two to three weeks. During this time, the patient is advised to follow the post-operative care recommended by the specialist.
Benefits and Risks of Anterior Vaginal Repair Surgery
As with all surgeries, anterior vaginal repair also comes with its set of potential benefits and risks. Some of the benefits of anterior vaginal repair include:
- Relieves symptoms of vaginal bulge, discomfort, and frequent urination
- Improves bladder function
- Improves long-term prolapse symptoms
Potential risks of surgery include:
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Painful urination
Posterior Vaginal Repair
Posterior vaginal repair, also known as posterior colporrhaphy, is a surgical procedure performed to repair or reinforce the fascial support between the rectum and the back wall of the vagina. It’s done to treat rectocele, a medical condition where the rectum moves out of its ordinary position and bulges within the backside of the vagina, causing the back wall to sag. Rectocele can lead to bowel dysfunctions such as difficulty in passing stool or feeling of incomplete bowel movements.
Therefore, the purpose of the surgery is to tighten the supportive tissues between the vagina and bowel and to remove any bulge in the vagina.
What Happens During Posterior Vaginal Repair
Though the techniques may vary according to the surgeon’s experience and individual condition, here’s a general description of the surgery:
- The surgery is performed under deep sedation.
- An incision is made to the back wall of the vagina.
- Then, the weakened fascia is repaired using dissolvable stitches.
- The surgery ends with closing the incision with another set of stitches.
- Typically, the recovery period for the surgery is between two to three weeks. During this time, it’s essential to follow the post-operative care recommended by the specialist.
Benefits and Risks of Posterior Vaginal Repair
Benefits of the surgery include:
- Relieves symptoms like discomfort during intercourse, difficulty in keeping a tampon in, and feeling of incomplete emptied bowel
- Improves bowel function
- Improve long-term prolapse symptoms
Potential risks of surgery include:
- Risk of pain, infection, bleeding, or trauma to adjacent tissues. However, it’s important to note that risk is significantly minimized under professional care.
Perineorrhaphy
Perineorrhaphy vaginal tightening, also known as perineoplasty, is a surgical procedure that’s performed to tighten the area between the vaginal opening and the anus, also called the perineum. The purpose of the surgery is to reconstruct the vaginal muscles to tighten the opening, repair any possible tears, and correct any disfiguring scars.
Additionally, if perineal scar tissue has caused a narrower vaginal opening that makes penetration painful, perineorrhaphy can also expand the vaginal opening, thus leading to improved sexual sensation.
What Happens During Perineorrhaphy
Here’s a general description of the surgery:
- The surgery is performed under deep sedation.
- A small V-shaped incision is made along the back wall of the vagina that borders the anus.
- Then, the surgeon removes the excess skin or scar tissue and repairs the deeper muscle layer surrounding the vagina.
- The edges of the incision are connected to tighten the perineal muscles and the vagina.
The recovery time for perineoplasty varies according to individual factors and the extent of the surgery. Typically, it’s noted that the perineum recovers within two weeks; however, the average period for complete recovery is between six to eight weeks. During this time, the patient is recommended to avoid heavy activities, intercourse and follow the post-operative instructions.
Benefits and Risks of Perineorrhaphy
The benefits of perineoplasty are:
- Improves sexual function
- Boosts self-confidence
- Relieves pain and discomfort during intercourse
- Restores the tightness and repairs damage to the perineum and vulva
Potential risks of the surgery include:
- Dyspareunia
- Possibility for bleeding, infection, and pain
- Possible damage to the surrounding tissues
However, it’s important to note that risk is significantly minimized under professional care.
Get Help with Dr. Mozhgan
In conclusion, vaginal repair surgeries can be life-changing for women who suffer prolapse symptoms or discomfort during intercourse. If you suffer from any of the symptoms mentioned above, discussing it with a specialist is vital to find appropriate treatment. Dr. Mozhgan is a highly skilled and experienced surgeon who has transformed the lives of women. If you’re considering vaginal repair surgeries, book an appointment with Dr. Mozhgan. With her expertise and compassionate care, you can be at peace knowing you’re in safe hands.
