Our Summary

This research paper is about the increased demand for cosmetic revision surgeries following vaginal reconstruction surgeries (vaginoplasties) that are part of gender affirmation procedures for transgender women. The study included all patients who underwent cosmetic revision surgeries at their institution from January 2014 to April 2022.

During this period, 354 patients had a vaginoplasty at their institution, and 40 of these (about 11%) needed follow-up cosmetic surgery. An additional 44 patients who had their vaginoplasty elsewhere also came to their clinic for cosmetic revisions.

The most common type of cosmetic revision was labia corrections (31.42% of cases), followed by clitoris repair surgeries (23.26%). Other less common corrections involved the mons Venus, urethral meatus, spongiosus tissue remnants, introitus, peri-inguinal scars, anterior commissure and inferior fourchette.

The study found no significant differences in the frequency or type of cosmetic revisions needed, regardless of which specific vaginoplasty technique was originally used.

The study concludes that cosmetic revisions after vaginoplasty are common, and more research is needed to improve cosmetic outcomes and provide better scientific evidence for these surgeries. The researchers also note that labiaplasty and clitoroplasty were the most common cosmetic revisions needed.

FAQs

  1. What was the most common type of cosmetic revision following a vaginoplasty?
  2. Was there a difference in the frequency or type of cosmetic revisions needed based on the specific vaginoplasty technique used?
  3. What was the percentage of patients who needed follow-up cosmetic surgery after undergoing a vaginoplasty at the institution in question?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about vaginoplasty is to have realistic expectations about the outcome and understand that cosmetic revisions may be necessary in some cases to achieve the desired aesthetic results. It is important to communicate openly with your surgeon about your goals and concerns before the procedure to ensure the best possible outcome. Additionally, following post-operative care instructions carefully and attending follow-up appointments are essential for optimal healing and results.

Suitable For

Typically, patients who undergo vaginoplasty as part of gender affirmation procedures for transgender women may be recommended cosmetic revision surgeries if they are dissatisfied with the aesthetic outcome of the initial surgery. This may include patients who are seeking corrections for labia asymmetry, clitoral appearance, or other aesthetic concerns related to their genitalia. Additionally, patients who have experienced complications or unsatisfactory outcomes from their initial surgery may also be recommended for cosmetic revisions.

Timeline

Before vaginoplasty, the patient typically undergoes a series of consultations with healthcare providers to discuss the procedure, risks, benefits, and expected outcomes. They may also undergo hormone therapy and psychological evaluations to ensure they are mentally and physically prepared for surgery.

After the vaginoplasty procedure, the patient will experience a recovery period that includes pain, swelling, and discomfort. They will need to follow post-operative care instructions, such as taking prescribed medications, keeping the surgical site clean, and avoiding strenuous activities.

In the months following the surgery, the patient will have follow-up appointments with their healthcare provider to monitor their healing progress and address any concerns or complications. Some patients may experience dissatisfaction with the cosmetic appearance of their genitalia and may seek additional cosmetic revision surgeries to improve the results.

Overall, the timeline of a patient’s experience before and after vaginoplasty includes pre-operative consultations, the surgical procedure, recovery period, follow-up appointments, and potential cosmetic revision surgeries to address aesthetic concerns.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with vaginoplasty and cosmetic revision surgeries?

  2. How long is the recovery period after vaginoplasty and cosmetic revision surgeries?

  3. What are the expected outcomes and realistic expectations for cosmetic revisions following vaginoplasty?

  4. How many follow-up appointments will be needed after the initial surgery, and how often should they occur?

  5. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery, and what are the potential side effects?

  6. Will there be scarring after the cosmetic revision surgeries, and how can it be minimized?

  7. How experienced is the surgeon in performing cosmetic revision surgeries after vaginoplasty?

  8. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could achieve similar results without the need for additional surgeries?

  9. Will insurance cover the cost of cosmetic revision surgeries after vaginoplasty?

  10. What is the long-term impact of cosmetic revision surgeries on sexual function and satisfaction?

Reference

Authors: Mañero I, Arno AI, Herrero R, Labanca T. Journal: Aesthetic Plast Surg. 2023 Feb;47(1):430-441. doi: 10.1007/s00266-022-03029-9. Epub 2022 Aug 24. PMID: 36002774