Difference between Vaginal Tightening and Vaginoplasty

The term vaginoplasty has many meanings; however, it is generally a surgical procedure used to reconstruct or repair the female vagina. The intricacies of the procedure may vary since they differ according to the needs and expectations of the patient.

While looking from a general viewpoint, vaginoplasty is a reconstructive surgery that is used to improve the functionality of the vagina. The procedures are widely undertaken to restore the vagina's shape and size so that the patients can perform normal activities like urination, menstruation, and even intercourse.

Vaginoplasty is also combined with various other surgeries for specific purposes. In the case of gender affirmation surgery for transgender people, it is used to construct the vagina after removing the male genitals.

The vaginoplasty procedure varies according to the situation at hand depending on whether the surgery is conducted for vaginal reconstruction or gender affirmation. 

In the case of injuries during childbirth

1. At the beginning of the procedure, the extra skin is removed from the area.
2. Post that, sutures are used to secure the loose tissue (partly/entirely).
3. The opening size of the vagina is reduced, and stitches are used again.

In the case of congenital defects

1. Creation of a functional vagina to restore senses in that area.
2. Removal of excessive tissue or any other foreign structures that aren’t common.
3. Prevention of blood pools during menstruation.

In the case of gender affirmation

1. A variation of the penile inversion method is followed to partially remove the male genitalia for certain redevelopments.
2. The vaginal vault is created between the rectum and the urethra alongside the vaginal lining created from the penile skin.

As mentioned above, there can be multiple occasions where a vaginoplasty can be deemed to be necessary. These include:

1. Restoring the ability of childbirth.
2. Reconstruction of the vagina post-trauma and radiation.
3. Treating congenital disorders (anomalies present since birth).
4. Gender affirmation surgeries.

The female vagina is prone to changes in elasticity owing to the inevitable process of ageing and childbirth. As a resolution, vaginal tightening works as a cosmetic procedure that focuses on tightening up the vaginal opening and the muscles that support it. 

These procedures are also termed designer vagina procedures that are marketed with uniquely different value propositions, including self-esteem boost and extended self-confidence. Off late, laser technology has also made the cut to replace the scalpel for vaginal rejuvenation and tightening.

Vaginal tightening is a cosmetic procedure performed to rejuvenate the vaginal area, but it is not used to tackle any anomaly that affects the body. It is a completely optional procedure based on the interests of the patient.

Vaginal tightening is an elective procedure; therefore, there are no fixed parameters regarding who should opt for it. Although there are various notions for marketing these surgeries depicting benefits like:

1. Attaining higher levels of self-confidence
2. Revamping the aesthetical beauty
3. It helps in regaining the sexual pleasure
4. It helps to nullify the effects of ageing

Undertaking a vaginal tightening procedure also helps to cure conditions like dryness, excessive discharge, and recurring infections in the vaginal area.

Here are the various steps that undergo during a vaginal tightening procedure:

1. The process begins with ascertaining the amount of tightening that is required by the patient.
2. Once this is determined, the medical practitioner determines a  pie-shaped wedge to mark aside the extra skin which will be required to remove.
3. Post the excess skin removal, the walls of the vagina regain strength with the help of sturdy sutures holding it in place.
4. In the end, the mucosal skin is sealed with sutures.

There are fundamental differences between both procedures, and it is imperative for you to know all these pointers beforehand.

There are a variety of things that you should be mindful of while undertaking any of these procedures. The risks include:

Both procedures may risk the loss of sensation in the areas it is done. Although the procedures are extremely safe and secure, it is imperative to know the risks before taking the final decision.

To gain full recovery with evident results, you must follow this list of dos and don'ts to steer clear of complexities. Post-operative care holds paramount importance in the efficiency of both procedures.

Postoperative care can demand some attention and effort from your end; however, it is necessary to follow these things alongside scheduling visits with your doctor regularly.

Vaginoplasty and vaginal tightening provide some of the same benefits to females but address different problems. If you have to reconstruct or repair the vagina then you may want to consider vaginoplasty. If you have to tighten up the vaginal opening and the muscles that support it then you may consider vaginal tightening.

Connect with the medical experts from HexaHealth to weigh your options for selecting the best procedure according to your medical history.