Reconstructive Vaginal Surgery  

Vaginal reconstruction is a procedure that addresses a variety of defects or damage caused to the vagina. Reconstructive vaginal surgery may be an option for women whose uro-vaginal region has been altered or damaged by birth defects, trauma or accidents. The goal of this procedure is to restore function and improve quality of life rather than improve appearance, though enhanced appearance is often easily achieved.  

Conditions Treated With Reconstructive Vaginal Surgery 

There are many conditions for which a woman may be a candidate for a vaginal reconstruction procedures. Some of these conditions include: 

• Congenital birth defects 
• Vaginal wall or uterine prolapse, where the vaginal or uterine walls push against other pelvic organs, such as the bladder or urethra. 
• Suffered physical trauma to the uro-vaginal region because of rape or an accident 
• Gynecological or urological cancer and have undergone many surgeries or radiation treatments that have affected the associated structures  

In addition, reconstructive vaginal surgery may also be recommended for women who have stretched genital structures, soreness or pain with sexual activities or reduced sensitivity to during intercourse following childbirth.  

Procedure Details 

How reconstructive vaginal surgery is performed will depend greatly on the condition being treated as well as the patient’s overall goals and needs.  

In some cases, the surgery can be relatively straightforward. In others, vaginal reconstruction can be highly complex, with the need for reconstruction of organs and tissue grafts.  

In general, only a vaginal incision is made. Through this incision, the surgeon can restore the vagina to its original position and tighten the tissues by securing it to ligaments or muscles in the pelvis. During the procedure, a labiaplasty (a procedure that decreases the size of the labia minora) may also be performed.  

What to Expect  

Reconstructive vaginal surgery does require general anesthesia, and the length of the procedure will vary depending on the surgical goals. Most patients stay in the hospital for one or two days before being discharged.  

Risks for vaginal reconstruction can include: 

• Bleeding 
• Infection 
• Loss of sensation in the genitals 
• Scarring 
• An adverse reaction to anesthesia  
• Damage to other organs  

Effectiveness of Reconstructive Vaginal Surgery  

Reconstructive vaginal surgery is an effective way to address not only concerning defects or abnormalities, but also to restore psychological well-being for a woman.  

The urogynecologists who perform reconstructive vaginal surgery at Tampa General Hospital work closely with a care team of women’s care medical experts to ensure the optimal results and improved quality of life for all patients.