Here at EndlessBeauty.com, our collective knowledge on Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation surgery was minimal, at least outside of what is shown on Nip/Tuck. To enlighten ourselves and our loyal readers, we interviewed one of the first surgeons (AND female) to specialize in the Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation (LVR) procedure, Dr. Wesley Anne Brady. Dr. Brady trained in Los Angeles with the pioneer of the LVR procedure, Dr. David Matlock in 2006, and she now conducts the procedure in her Women’s Wellness Institute in Dallas, Texas.
Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation is an outpatient procedure that takes about an hour and a half, depending on the patient’s specific case. Women who have experienced more muscle looseness may take longer. According to Dr. Brady, the procedure is accomplished through a reconstruction process of vital areas of vaginal relaxation, namely the outer third of the vagina, the orgasmic platform, internal and external vaginal diameter, introitus, and perineal body.
Women usually undergo the procedure for one of two main reasons: muscle relaxation after child birth or due to aging. Women who have had children, may no longer feel comfortable in front of their partner or while having sex because of vaginal muscle looseness, and are opting to have the procedure done to enhance vaginal muscle tone, strength, and control.
Women who suffer from an involuntary loss of urine when coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising (which is a sign of muscle relaxation) or a change in their bowel habits, may also choose to have the procedure done. This condition, known as vaginal relaxation and stress urinary incontinence, affects 30 million American women.
The procedure was developed, says Dr. Brady, by listening and caring about the needs of women, about 15 years ago. For years, women have claimed that Kegel exercises do not work. This procedure will give the desired results.
Dr. Brady warns us that LVR is a major surgery, and the risks should be taken seriously. With all types of surgery, infection is the top risk. Dr. Brady says about 2% of women suffer from infection after the surgery. Bleeding and allergic reactions are also issues to consider, which affect about 1% of cases.
Recovery time and diligent aftercare are crucial to the patient’s full-recovery and overall sexual health, claims Dr. Brady. The healing process takes about 6 weeks. During those 6 weeks, women should not do any of the following:
Normal activity can resume after 6 weeks, and after a follow-up to ensure everything has healed properly.
The procedure starts around $5,000, says Dr. Brady.
Although EndlessBeauty.com advocates for a healthier approach to beauty, we also believe that comfort and happiness in your body is what creates external beauty. With a social stigma surrounding women and sex, talking about an issue as private as vaginal looseness can cause women to suffer in silence. If vaginal muscle looseness is affecting your self-esteem, stress levels, and potential for depression, reconstructive surgery may be for you. Consider seeing a therapist before deciding on the procedure, and always be sure to talk to your regular doctor before making any decisions.
For more on the LVR procedure, a glimpse of Dr. Brady’s facility, and commentary from the doctor herself, click here.
Catherine Saunders is a staff writer and researcher at EndlessBeauty.com
