Perineoplasty

About the Procedure

During childbirth, it is common for women to experience a tearing or purposeful cutting of the perineum which is the area between the vaginal opening and the anus for easier delivery. This tearing of the perineum can cause a widening of the perineum which some women find aesthetically unpleasing. A teared perineum can also cause scarring which can make subsequent deliveries difficult and make vaginal sex uncomfortable. For women who desire a tighter appearance to the perineum for either aesthetic or health reasons, a perineoplasty, also called a perineorrhaphy, can be performed. A perineoplasty typically only requires local anesthesia and is done on an outpatient basis. Patients may be prescribed a sedative for improved comfort throughout the procedure. The patient will be positioned on a table with the legs spread. The incisions done during a perineoplasty will vary depending on the needs of the patient and may include additional procedures such as a vaginoplasty or labiaplasty. The procedure may be performed with either a traditional scalpel or with lasers. Typically, incisions will be made in a V-shaped pattern within the vaginal mucosa. Excess skin and any scar tissue is excised. The vaginal levator muscles are tightened. Internal and external closure of the vaginal mucous and perineal muscles are performed to achieve a tighter appearance and function of the perineum. Results are noticeable immediately after the 30-45 minute procedure.