Vaginoplasty Surgery

What is Vaginoplasty?

Vaginoplasty is a surgical procedure in which tissue in the genital region is repositioned to form or reconstruct a vaginal canal and vulva, including the labia. It is used for:

• Vaginal reconstruction
• Gender affirmation surgery
• Enhancing sexual function or satisfaction
• Correcting congenital abnormalities

A related procedure, Vulvoplasty, can create a feminine outer genital area with a shallow vaginal canal.

Types of Vaginoplasty

1. Intestinal Vaginoplasty

   • Uses a segment of the sigmoid colon to create a neovagina
   • Minimally invasive with small incisions

2. McIndoe Vaginoplasty

   • Uses a skin graft to line the surgically created vaginal canal

3. Penile Inversion Vaginoplasty

   • Common for transgender women
   • Involves inverting penile and scrotal skin to form a vaginal canal

4. Buccal Mucosa Vaginoplasty

   • Uses inner cheek tissue to line the neovagina

5. Peritoneal Vaginoplasty

   • Uses the abdominal lining
   • Performed laparoscopically

Indications for Vaginoplasty

• Gender affirmation for transgender women
• Congenital anomalies (e.g. absent or malformed vagina)
• Vaginal looseness or trauma repair
• Enhancing sexual satisfaction

Preoperative Requirements in India

• Physical examination
• Ultrasound
• Blood, urine, and pregnancy tests
• Psychological and medical evaluation (especially for gender affirmation cases)

Procedure Overview

For Repair or Tightening:

• Remove excess/damaged tissue
• Tighten loose vaginal tissue with stitches
• Reduce vaginal opening size as needed

For Congenital Abnormalities:

• Remove abnormal or excess tissue
• Ensure proper menstrual flow
• Create a fully functional vaginal canal

For Gender Affirmation:

• Reconfigure penile and scrotal tissue
• Invert and insert skin to create vaginal canal and labia
• May include clitoral reconstruction and urinary repositioning

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does a vaginoplasty hurt?
A: The procedure is performed under general or local anesthesia, so no pain is felt during surgery. Mild postoperative discomfort may include bruising, swelling, soreness, or tenderness.

Q: What is the recovery time?
A: Full recovery typically takes 4–6 weeks, depending on the patient.

Q: What are common side effects?
A:

• Urinary retention
• Bruising and swelling
• Infection
• Bleeding
• Skin necrosis