Common Reasons for Vaginoplasty Revision and How They Are Addressed
In the world of cosmetic gynecology, there are a variety of procedures that can help to change parts of your more intimate areas that you may not be happy with. One such procedure is known as a vaginoplasty. Vaginoplasty is a procedure that makes the vaginal canal stronger or reconstructs it for medical or aesthetic purposes. The majority are satisfied with the outcomes, but some will require additional surgery due to complications, dissatisfaction with the outcomes, or the natural changes that occur in the body over time. Revision of the vaginoplasty is undertaken to correct complications that occurred during the initial surgery to ensure that it functions properly and aesthetically. Some of the reasons why vaginoplasty will need to be revised are outlined below, along with the correction.
Results that are Less than Satisfactory
Many patients desire revision vaginoplasty because they are dissatisfied. This dissatisfaction stems from various causes, such as unevenness, scars, or an unusual appearance. Some patients are dissatisfied because the initial surgery left them less firm than desired.
Solution
Surgeons solve the issues through surgery to enhance the shape, balance, and appearance of the vaginal region. If tightening the vaginal region is desired, other techniques are employed to tighten the tissue and enhance the outcomes. Occasionally, a laser is employed to create scar tissue that feels more natural and less obvious.
Excessive Scarring or Tissue Formation
Scar tissue develops spontaneously once you recover from surgery. However, if there happens to be excessive scarring or healing tissue, then it will be uncomfortable, cause pain, and not look as aesthetically pleasing as possible.
Solution
Minor scar revision surgery makes large scars less raised and flat by removing scar tissue. If there is an excessive amount of tissue, the doctors can remove it using a carefully aimed laser. This can change the scar tissue to make it smoother and less obvious.
Ongoing Discomfort or Pain
Some patients who undergo a vaginoplasty continue to experience pain or discomfort following the initial vaginoplasty. This can occur due to nerve issues, excessive scar tissue formation, or an error during the procedure. Women who are unhappy with their procedure and wish to correct these issues may often come back in for a vaginoplasty revision.
Solution
Revision surgery has the capability to alleviate pinched nerves, remove excessive scar tissue, or relocate the offending structures. Even treatments like physical therapy and physical therapy to the pelvic floor are highly effective in decreasing pain.
Fistula Formation
A fistula is an abnormal connection between the vaginal canal and another part of the body, such as the bladder or the rectum. This happens infrequently but will sometimes lead to issues like urine leakage or infection. As you can imagine, this can be a problem for an individual following a vaginoplasty procedure.
Solution
Surgery is crucial to seal the fistula and restore normal function. If it’s quite severe, it will need a series of operations to correct. Subsequently, it is also crucial to avoid infections and manage the wound to heal properly.
Vaginal Narrowing
Vaginal stenosis, or narrowing of the vagina, can occur if there is excessive scar tissue that causes the vaginal canal to narrow. This can lead to pain and discomfort during intercourse or the inability to insert tampons or receive proper examinations.
Solution
Treatment options include surgery to remove the scar tissue and to enlarge the vaginal canal. Vaginal dilators will maintain the vaginal size afterward and prevent the vaginal canal from becoming narrow again. Check-ups regularly with a specialist are essential to observe the improvements.
Infections and Wound Healing Issues
After surgery, complications such as infections or poor healing can worsen the outcomes of vaginoplasty, requiring further surgery.
Solution
Quick treatment using antibiotics and wound care will be sufficient to prevent it from becoming worse. If the wound does worsen, it will be surgically corrected. Taking care of the wound, keeping it clean, and adhering to the surgery care guidelines will decrease the possibility of developing an infection.
Trouble Urinating
Some patients may be faced with difficulty controlling urine or having difficulty urinating following vaginoplasty. This may occur due to the structural changes that impair the urethra or surrounding tissues.
Solution
You might need surgery to shift the urethra or to correct blockages. Some nonsurgical options include pelvic floor therapy and behavior techniques that will cause the bladder to function more effectively. However, a vaginoplasty revision can also help to clear up concerns.
If you would like to learn more about the vaginoplasty procedure, including how a vaginoplasty revision can help correct anything that you may not be happy with following a vaginoplasty, call the office of Dr. Ghozland today at 310-393-9359 and we will be happy to get you scheduled for a consultation!