Incontinence Surgery in Vancouver, BC

Incontinence surgery in Vancouver, BC offers a path toward improved bladder control and greater confidence for women living with urinary incontinence. Whether you experience involuntary leakage during everyday activities or feel an urgent, uncontrollable need to urinate, these challenges are more common than many people realize, and effective, evidence-based treatment options are available. Dr. Darren Lazare, a board-certified gynecologist with subspecialty training in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery, works with patients throughout Vancouver and the surrounding communities to develop personalized incontinence treatment plans. 

To learn more or schedule a consultation, call (604) 774-2723 or contact us online.

Understanding Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence refers to the involuntary loss of urine, and it can take several forms depending on its underlying cause. Stress incontinence occurs when physical movement or activity, such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, or heavy lifting, increases abdominal pressure and causes leakage in the bladder. Urge incontinence, sometimes associated with overactive bladder, involves a sudden, intense urge to urinate followed by involuntary leakage. Overflow incontinence happens when the bladder does not empty fully, leading to frequent or constant dribbling. Functional incontinence may affect individuals with physical or cognitive impairments who cannot reach a restroom in time.

Mixed incontinence combines elements of more than one type, which is why a thorough evaluation is essential before recommending the most suitable treatment approach. Dr. Lazare takes time to understand each patient’s unique situation, ensuring that any urinary incontinence procedure or treatment that is recommended depends on an accurate, individualized diagnosis rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.

Risk Factors for Developing Urinary Incontinence

Several factors may contribute to developing urinary incontinence. Pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause are among the most common contributors in women, as these life stages can affect pelvic floor strength and pelvic anatomy. Post-menopausal women may experience changes in tissue elasticity that affect bladder function. Additional risk factors include:

• Neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease
• Medications, obesity, and chronic conditions that affect bladder function
• A history of pelvic surgery or pelvic organ prolapse
• Urinary retention issues that place strain on the bladder
• Lifestyle factors such as fluid intake, dietary adjustments, and weight management habits

Understanding your personal risk factors helps guide discussions about the most appropriate treatment option for your specific needs. During your consultation, Dr. Lazare will review your health history and listen carefully to your symptoms and concerns.

Incontinence Treatment Options: From Conservative to Surgical

Not every patient requires surgery. Many urinary incontinence treatments begin with conservative approaches, and incontinence surgery is typically considered when other options have not provided sufficient relief. Treatment options vary based on the type and severity of incontinence, as well as overall health and personal goals.

Conservative incontinence treatment may include pelvic floor muscle exercises, bladder training, behavioral therapies, dietary adjustments to reduce irritants, topical estrogen for post-menopausal women, and keeping a urinary diary to identify urination patterns. These strategies can significantly improve symptoms for some patients and may also complement urinary incontinence procedures when surgery is recommended.

When conservative measures are not enough, surgical procedures offer a more lasting approach to managing incontinence. Dr. Lazare will walk you through every option during your consultation and help you understand what each involves, what recovery looks like, and what realistic treatment outcomes you can expect.

Pelvic Floor and Surgical Approaches

Incontinence surgery focuses on supporting the pelvic floor and addressing the structural issues that contribute to involuntary leakage. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that support the bladder, uterus, and bowel. When these structures weaken or are damaged, stress urinary incontinence and other bladder control issues may develop.

Midurethral Sling Surgery

Midurethral sling surgery is one of the most widely studied surgical procedures for stress urinary incontinence. A synthetic mesh or natural tissue is used to create a supportive sling beneath the urethra, helping to prevent unexpected urine leakage during activities that increase abdominal pressure. Sling procedures are generally well-tolerated and are considered a minimally invasive procedure compared to older surgical approaches.

Urethral Bulking Agents

Urethral bulking involves injecting a substance into the tissue surrounding the urethra to help it close more effectively and reduce involuntary leakage. Urethral bulking is often considered for patients who may not be ideal candidates for more extensive surgery or for those seeking a less invasive approach to managing symptoms. Urethral bulking may be performed in an office or outpatient setting, and multiple sessions could be needed depending on individual response.

Pelvic Organ Prolapse Repair

In some cases, urinary incontinence occurs alongside pelvic organ prolapse, where organs such as the bladder or uterus descend into or beyond the vaginal wall. Reconstructive surgery to address prolapse can also help improve bladder control by restoring proper pelvic anatomy and reducing pressure on surrounding structures.

Combination Procedures

Can urinary incontinence procedures be combined? Yes, in many situations, addressing prolapse and stress incontinence together during a single surgical procedure may enhance effectiveness and reduce overall recovery time. Dr. Lazare will discuss whether a combined approach is appropriate for your situation.

Who May Be a Candidate for Incontinence Surgery

Incontinence surgery is typically considered when urinary incontinence has been diagnosed following a thorough evaluation, conservative treatments have not provided adequate relief, and the patient is in suitable health to undergo a surgical procedure. Diagnosis typically involves a review of your medical records, physical examinations, bladder function tests, and a discussion of your symptoms and how they affect your daily life.

Patients who may benefit include those with:

• Confirmed stress urinary incontinence that limits physical activity or daily routines
• Urge incontinence or mixed incontinence unresponsive to behavioral therapies
• Pelvic organ prolapse contributing to bladder control issues
• Emotional and social challenges related to managing incontinence in daily life

Every patient’s situation is different. Dr. Lazare takes a careful, individualized approach to determining whether surgery sooner or continued conservative management is the right path for you.

Ready to take the next step? Call (604) 774-2723 or request a consultation online to discuss your options with Dr. Lazare.

What to Expect: Consultation, Procedure, and Recovery

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation at our Vancouver, BC office, where Dr. Lazare will take time to gather relevant medical records, review your health history, and conduct appropriate physical examinations. You may be asked to bring or gather relevant medical records from previous providers to help ensure a complete picture of your pelvic health. Bladder function tests and a urinary diary may also be part of the diagnostic process.

Once a suitable treatment approach is identified, Dr. Lazare will explain the procedure in detail, including what to expect on the day of surgery, anesthesia options, and how to prepare. Pelvic floor exercises before surgery may also be recommended to help prepare the surrounding tissues.

Most patients are able to return to light activities within a few weeks, though complete recovery and final results may take longer to fully develop. Dr. Lazare’s team will provide clear post-operative guidance tailored to your specific procedure. As with any surgical procedure, risks include temporary discomfort, swelling, urinary retention, or other complications, all of which will be discussed thoroughly before you move forward.

Many patients experience a meaningful improvement in bladder control and overall quality of life.

Why Choose Dr. Darren Lazare for Pelvic Medicine in Vancouver, BC

Dr. Darren Lazare brings a thoughtful, patient-centered approach to pelvic surgery and reconstructive care. He completed his residency in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the University of British Columbia and went on to complete a subspecialty fellowship in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery at the University of Alberta, one of a select group of physicians in Canada with this level of specialized training.

He currently serves as a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of British Columbia, where he oversees the urogynecology residency program. His involvement in medical education reflects a commitment to advancing the standard of care in pelvic medicine. Dr. Lazare is also recognized as a Surgeon Champion for the American College of Surgeons’ National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP), demonstrating his dedication to quality improvement initiatives and patient safety.

His professional memberships include the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons, the Canadian Society of Pelvic Medicine, the International Urogynecology Association, the International Continence Society, and the American Urogynecology Society, affiliations that reflect both his expertise and his engagement with the broader clinical community.

Frequently Asked Questions About Incontinence Surgery in Vancouver, BC

Have more questions? Call us at (604) 774-2723 or connect with our team online. We are happy to help you find the answers you need.

What types of urinary incontinence can be treated with surgery?

Surgery is most commonly recommended for stress urinary incontinence and, in some cases, for mixed incontinence when conservative approaches have not provided sufficient relief. Conditions such as pelvic organ prolapse that contribute to bladder control issues may also be addressed through reconstructive surgical procedures. Dr. Lazare will determine the most appropriate treatment option based on a thorough evaluation of your specific diagnosis.

How do I know if I am a candidate for incontinence surgery?

Candidacy is determined through a comprehensive consultation that includes reviewing your medical records, assessing your symptoms, and conducting appropriate bladder function tests. Surgery is typically considered when urinary incontinence has been diagnosed, and conservative treatments such as pelvic floor exercises, bladder training, and behavioral therapies have not delivered adequate improvement. Contact our office to schedule a consultation and begin the evaluation process.

What is the difference between a sling procedure and urethral bulking?

Midurethral sling surgery involves placing a supportive structure beneath the urethra to help prevent leakage during activities that increase abdominal pressure, making it well-suited for stress incontinence. Urethral bulking involves injecting a substance to help the urethra close more effectively and is often considered for patients who prefer or require a less invasive approach. Dr. Lazare will discuss which option aligns best with your anatomy, health history, and treatment goals.

How long is the recovery after incontinence surgery?

Recovery varies depending on the procedure performed and individual health factors. Most patients return to light daily activities within a few weeks, though full recovery and stabilization of results may take several months. Dr. Lazare’s team will provide detailed post-operative guidance specific to your procedure, and individual recovery timelines will be discussed during your consultation.

Will I need multiple treatments or just one procedure?

This depends on the type of incontinence treatment recommended. Urethral bulking may require more than one session to achieve the desired improvement, while sling procedures are typically performed as a single surgical intervention. During your consultation, Dr. Lazare will outline a clear treatment plan, so you understand what to expect from start to finish.

Can urinary incontinence procedures be combined with other pelvic surgeries?

Yes, in appropriate cases, addressing stress urinary incontinence alongside pelvic organ prolapse repair during a single procedure may be both practical and beneficial. Combining surgeries may help reduce overall recovery time and can enhance effectiveness when both conditions are present. Dr. Lazare will evaluate your pelvic anatomy carefully to determine whether a combined approach is right for you.

Are the results of incontinence surgery permanent?

Complete cure rates vary based on the type and severity of incontinence, the specific surgical procedure, and individual factors such as age and overall health. Many patients experience significant, lasting improvement in bladder control and symptom management; however, results are not guaranteed to be permanent, and some patients may require additional treatment over time. 

What should I bring to my first appointment?

It is helpful to gather relevant medical records, including any previous imaging, urodynamic test results, or notes from other providers who have treated your incontinence. A list of your current medications, a urinary diary if you have been keeping one, and any questions you have about your symptoms or treatment options will also help make your first visit as productive as possible. Our team can guide you on what to prepare when you book your appointment.

Does managing incontinence through surgery require lifestyle changes afterward?

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle after surgery can support long-term treatment outcomes. This may include continuing pelvic floor exercises, managing fluid intake, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding heavy lifting during the recovery period. Dr. Lazare will discuss specific recommendations based on your procedure and individual health goals during your post-operative appointments.

Take the Next Step Toward Better Bladder Control

Living with urinary incontinence can affect your confidence, your routines, and your overall well-being, but you do not have to manage it alone. Incontinence surgery in Vancouver, BC, performed by an experienced specialist in female pelvic medicine, may offer the meaningful relief you have been looking for. Dr. Darren Lazare and our team are here to listen, evaluate your situation thoroughly, and guide you through every step of your care. Call us at (604) 774-2723 or schedule a consultation online today.