Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation

Simply defined, in laser vaginal rejuvenation (LVR), a surgeon uses laser-assisted techniques to enhance and improve the structure and appearance of the woman's genitalia. The term refers to vaginoplasty, which changes the size and tone of the vaginal opening, combined with labiaplasty, which alters the appearance of the labia.

LVR tightens and strengthens the vaginal walls and muscles, and it decreases the diameter of the interior and exterior of the genital area. This improves friction and makes sex more enjoyable for both partners. Tightening the pelvic floor, vagina, perineum, pelvic floor and labia can eliminate or reduce incontinence, which is a common problem that occurs with age and after pregnancy.

The procedure is a perfect option for women who complain of asymmetry in their labia, and who feel uncomfortable wearing close-fitting clothing such as leggings or swimsuits.

LVR methods are often used alongside scalpel-based vaginal rejuvenation surgery to provide accuracy for the surgeon and the best results for the patient.

Who Is A Candidate For Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation?

A good candidate is a woman who is bothered by sagging and loose labial or vaginal tissue, and who wants a less invasive procedure that requires less downtime.

LVR is not recommended for patients who have a chronic medical condition that causes lesions or sores in the genital region.

Your surgeon will help you determine if you are a candidate for the procedure. Use our surgeon locator to find a specialist near you!

How Is The Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation Performed?

The procedure is minimally invasive and requires no incisions or sutures and involves one or several procedures. Most are performed in outpatient surgery centers under local anesthesia; sedation might or might not be used. Most LVR procedures take under an hour.

LVR procedures include:

• Vaginoplasty (vaginal tightening)
• Labiaplasty (labia remodeling)
• Perineoplasty, (tightening of the tissues between the anus and vagina)

What Is Recovery Like After LVR?

The procedure requires very little downtime. The majority of women report minimal discomfort, and many return to work and normal life within three days. There might be swelling and redness that should resolve within two days. Swelling can be minimized with ice packs, and discomfort is usually managed with non-prescription pain medications. Patients should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity, such as vigorous exercise, until their surgeon advises them otherwise. The surgeon might prescribe gels or creams to facilitate healing (always get your physicians OK before using creams or gels).

Your vaginal rejuvenation specialist and his or her staff will provide guidelines on caring for yourself to ease recovery.

What Results Can I Expect From Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation?

Results after an LVR procedure are immediate and will become even more apparent in the days after, as the swelling and redness dissipate.

Is Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation Covered By Insurance?

Medical insurance companies do not cover any cosmetic procedure, including vaginal rejuvenation. However, if a woman has a valid medical condition such as incontinence, insurance might cover some of the costs. Ask your surgeon and insurance company about coverage for your procedure. If your insurance company agrees to pay for a portion of your procedure, get it in writing.

How Much Does Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation Cost?

Although the cost of laser vaginal rejuvenation varies greatly depending on a number of factors such as how many procedures are selected, the expertise of the doctor and the area where you live. Laser perineoplasty ranges between $3,500 and $5,500. Laser labiaplasty and vaginoplasty range from $4,000 to about $6,000. Complete LVR packages cost between $6,500 and $8,000. These prices pertain only to the surgeon's fee; additional fees might apply for anesthesia and the facility. Click here to read more about costs associated with LVR.

What Are The Benefits Of Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation?

It has been suggested that the laser procedure can increase a doctor's precision and fine control during the surgery, which could mean better and more enjoyable results for the patient. The heat of the surgical laser could also minimize blood loss by sealing the blood vessels. This, combined with the elimination of incisions, lowers the risk of infection. Surgeons who perform laser vaginal rejuvenation say that laser surgery reduces trauma to the body, allowing a shorter recover time.

What Are The Risks Of Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation?

Laser vaginal rejuvenation carries with it the slight risk of laser burns. If the burns are serious, they cause scar tissue to develop, which interferes with sexual sensitivity.

Common side effects include:

• Low-grade pain and discomfort
• Swelling
• Redness

Although there are a number of potential benefits to laser vaginal rejuvenation, the skill of the surgeon is more important than the tool he or she uses. Surgeons can provide very poor results using cutting-edge surgical lasers, and they can provide excellent results with just a scalpel. Look for a skilled surgeon who is well trained in the latest laser technology.

Does Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation Cost More?

Surgical lasers cost more to buy and maintain than scalpels. This procedure results in a higher operating cost, which will be reflected in the amount the surgeon charges. You might pay slightly more for a laser vaginal rejuvenation than you would for a similar surgery performed with a scalpel. However, many feel that the precision the technology offers, as well as decreased pain and recovery make it worth the additional price.