Aesthetic Gynecology
Aesthetic gynecology, also known as cosmetic gynecology or intimate health, is a specialized field that offers surgical and non-surgical procedures to improve the appearance and function of the female genitalia. Driven by a growing awareness of women’s intimate health, these treatments address physical concerns that may arise from childbirth, aging, or genetics, with the goal of enhancing comfort, confidence, and overall well-being.
Common Concerns Addressed
Aesthetic gynecology procedures can help women with a variety of intimate health concerns, including:
- Vaginal laxity: Looseness in the vaginal canal, often caused by childbirth or aging, which can decrease sexual satisfaction.
- Labiaplasty: Reshaping or reducing the size of the labia minora or majora to improve aesthetic appearance or reduce physical discomfort caused by enlarged labia.
- Vaginal dryness: A common issue, especially after menopause, that can cause painful intercourse.
- Urinary incontinence: Specifically, mild stress urinary incontinence, or the involuntary leakage of urine during activities like laughing, coughing, or exercising.
- Sexual dysfunction: Issues with arousal or sensation, which can be addressed through procedures like clitoral hood reduction.
Types of Procedures
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Laser vaginal rejuvenation: Uses laser energy to stimulate collagen production in vaginal tissues, improving tightness and elasticity.
- Radiofrequency (RF) therapy: Heats vaginal tissues with radio waves to promote new collagen and elastin, tightening the vaginal canal.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP): Injections of PRP derived from the patient’s own blood can stimulate tissue regeneration and enhance sensitivity.
- Fillers and lipofilling: Injectable fillers, such as hyaluronic acid or autologous fat, can be used to restore volume to the labia majora.
- Electromagnetic stimulation: High-intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) chairs can be used to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.
Surgical Procedures
- Labiaplasty: Surgical reduction or reshaping of the labia.
- Vaginoplasty: Surgical tightening of the vaginal canal, often addressing vaginal laxity following childbirth.
- Clitoral hood reduction: Removes excess skin from the clitoral hood to improve appearance and enhance sexual sensation.
- Perineoplasty: Reconstructs the perineum (the area between the vagina and anus) to address issues like scarring or laxity from childbirth.
- Hymenoplasty: Surgical repair of the hymen.
Important Considerations
While aesthetic gynecology can significantly improve a woman’s quality of life, it is important to be aware of the following:
- Ethical concerns: Some medical bodies, like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), have raised concerns about the marketing and potential for exploitation in this field, particularly for purely aesthetic reasons.
- Lack of standardized research: While the demand is growing, there is a lack of long-term studies on the safety and efficacy of some procedures. Patients should be counseled on the potential risks and limitations.
- Patient counseling: Comprehensive counseling is crucial to ensure a woman’s motivations are sound and her expectations are realistic. For young women seeking these procedures, a thorough evaluation is essential, and delaying treatment until full genital maturity may be recommended.
How it Works
Consultation and deep cleansing
A dermatologist first performs a thorough skin analysis to identify your specific skin type and concerns. The treatment begins with a deep cleansing to remove surface-level impurities, oil, and makeup.
Advanced exfoliation
Using medical-grade techniques, the skin is exfoliated to remove dead skin cells and promote cellular turnover. This can involve specialized equipment like hydradermabrasion tools or a chemical peel with mild acids like salicylic or glycolic acid.
Extraction and targeted treatment
Extractions are performed gently to clear clogged pores of blackheads and whiteheads. A customized treatment then targets your specific skin issue, such as acne, pigmentation, or fine lines, using advanced tools like LED light therapy, lasers, or radiofrequency devices.
Nourishment and hydration
Finally, a blend of medical-grade serums rich in antioxidants, peptides, and vitamins is infused deep into the skin. A final mask or moisturizer is applied to soothe, hydrate, and protect the skin, locking in moisture and nutrients.
Before
After
have a question?
Quick answers to questions you may have
How is a medifacial different from a regular salon facial?
Medifacials are performed under the supervision of a dermatologist and use medical-grade products and devices for more targeted, long-lasting results. Regular facials mainly focus on surface-level cleansing, offer temporary results, and are primarily for relaxation. Medifacials address underlying skin issues at a cellular level, while salon facials typically do not.
Are medifacials suitable for sensitive skin?
Yes, medifacials can be customized to be gentle enough for sensitive skin. The products and techniques used are non-abrasive and often contain soothing, natural ingredients to avoid irritation. It is important to discuss any skin sensitivities with your dermatologist beforehand.
Is there any downtime after a medifacial?
Generally, there is no downtime after a medifacial, and you can resume your regular activities immediately. Some people may experience mild redness, but this typically subsides within a few hours. The full and lasting benefits of the treatment will develop over the next few weeks.
How many sessions are required to see results?
While many people notice an immediate improvement in skin texture and radiance after just one session, a series of treatments is recommended for best results. For specific concerns like acne or pigmentation, dermatologists may recommend a series of sessions spaced 4 to 6 weeks apart. Your aftercare routine and daily skincare habits also play a vital role in maintaining the results.