Viveve: A Valentine’s Gift for your Vagina

Vaginal rejuvenation is a life-changing procedure that can restore sexual satisfaction and sensation to women after vaginal childbirth. Reduced quality in sexual activity does not have to be a permanent condition after vaginal childbirth. This safe and simple procedure has the ability to erase the negative impacts of childbirth on your vagina so that you can focus on a future full of pleasure and joy with your partner.  Consider if vaginal rejuvenation is right for you by learning more through these gynecologist-certified answers to common questions. 

What is laser vaginal rejuvenation?

Vaginal rejuvenation, or vaginoplasty, is a restorative procedure that surgically tightens the vagina. The procedure is a laser-assisted reconstruction of vital vaginal areas. Medical lasers are used for very precise surgical work, instead of a scalpel. The result is a restored optimum architectural structure of the vagina. It treats the vagina, perineum, and supporting muscles, the vaginal areas that are integrally involved in sexual response during intercourse, and creates significant improvements in sexual response. Ultimately, it is a restoration surgery that improves sexual function, restoring the vagina to a state similar to before vaginal childbirth.

Who is vaginal rejuvenation for?

Vaginal rejuvenation is for women who are experiencing a lack of tightness in the vagina, dryness, pain during sex, or diminished sensation during sexual intercourse. The vagina and its supporting muscles and tissues can become stretched or torn during childbirth, including the area known as the pelvic floor, which rarely returns to its pre-pregnancy state. Vaginal rejuvenation is usually performed to correct problems that can occur after vaginal childbirth. Women may choose vaginal rejuvenation for cosmetic reasons or to have a better quality of life and physical comfort.

Is Vaginal rejuvenation only for women who have had children?

No, vaginal rejuvenation is not only for women who have had children. Women who have not had children are candidates if they are experiencing vaginal relaxation.

Can any gynecologist perform vaginal rejuvenation? 

No, not all gynecologists are qualified to perform vaginal rejuvenation procedures. This is a skill specific to cosmetic gynecologists who complete further training to become proficient in performing vaginoplasty and other vaginal rejuvenation procedures. Dr. Lazare is a qualified OGBYN and cosmetic gynecologist who has completed a fellowship in pelvic reconstructive surgery. 

How long does it take to recover from vaginal rejuvenation?

Vaginal rejuvenation has a short recovery period. The most difficult time will be the first three days, where you will feel a lot of pressure and the sensation of needing to have a bowel movement. After 2 to 4 days, most patients can go back to work and resume regular life tasks. However, you must wait a full 6-8 weeks before engaging in sexual activity. 

Does vaginal rejuvenation treat stress urinary incontinence?

Vaginoplasty can reduce leakage, but it does not often fully correct stress urinary incontinence. During your assessment, Dr. Lazare will recommend additional treatment. For example, bladder sling surgery can be performed at the same time as vaginoplasty to correct stress urinary incontinence.

What are the non-surgical options?

Viveve is an alternative non-surgical option to vaginal rejuvenation. Viveve is similar to vaginoplasty in that it is an effective treatment to improve women’s sexual function. The procedure creates new collagen in the vagina which allows the vagina to return to its pre-childbirth function and structure. With this procedure, the sensation is restored and laxity is decreased.

How do women feel after getting vaginoplasty? 

Based on a survey with 95 responses in 2021, 94% of women felt that vaginoplasty was worth it.