Brandi Glanville of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills fame recently revealed in her memoir the cosmetic procedure she underwent to get back at ex-husband actor Eddie Cibrian for his infidelity. The procedure, called gynocosmetology, is more commonly known as vaginal rejuvenation. It is a purely cosmetic procedure, one that is designed to modify the structure and appearance of a woman’s genitals. It is not as popular as, say, breast augmentation but demand for this procedure is increasing. In 2009, over 50,000 vaginal rejuvenations were performed in the United States alone. So is Brandi Glanville on the right track with her decision to undergo this type of surgery? Just what is vaginal rejuvenation, what is involved and is it a good option for women considering it?
Vaginal Rejuvenation Explained
Vaginal rejuvenation is a type of reconstructive cosmetic surgery involving parts of the female genitalia, such as the vulva, the mucous membrane and the vaginal canal. It is usually performed on women whose private areas have been altered physically due to a birth defect, trauma, injury, disease or childbirth. Aside from creating an improved appearance, the procedure may also strengthen, reshape and firm up the outer areas to create a more youthful appearance. It is the equivalent of having a face-lift in that it helps improve the appearance of the outer genitals. The procedure is performed using a laser.
Vaginal rejuvenation, such as the one performed on Brandi Glanville is usually a combination of procedures such as vaginoplasty and labiaplasty. Vaginoplasty refers to a surgical procedure where the patient’s vaginal canal is tightened. A procedure called hymenoplasty may also be performed, wherein ruptured hymen is reconstructed. In labiaplasty, the labia or outer lips of the vagina are reduced or enhanced cosmetically in order to change the shape. Part of the labia is removed and the muscles and soft tissues near the area are tightened.
Help for Women that Suffer from Chronic Irritation
In some cases, the surgery may be necessary. Reduction of the labia is often indicated for women who suffer from chronic irritation due to sports, sex or tight clothes. Once the area has been changed physically, they usually no longer complain of discomfort.
Vaginal Rejuvenation – Recovery
The surgery is performed in a clinic or hospital and is generally an outpatient procedure. The patient will be put under general anesthesia, which should reduce the pain and discomfort for several hours during and post-surgery. Patients are prescribed painkillers and antibiotics to prevent infections. Recovery is relatively short, and patients can expect to move around in just a few days. Results are often visible in 2 to 3 weeks.
Vaginal Rejuvenation – Risks and Complications
Brandi Glanville’s surgery, while successful, was not without risks. It is still a surgical procedure, one that could lead to bleeding, infection and development of scar tissues. Nerve endings may also be severed, resulting to the loss of feeling and sensation after the operation. In some women, however, the loss of feeling is temporary and they eventually recover in a few weeks or a few months.