The perineum is the smallest area located between the anus and vagina. This small part holds numerous tissues that support the vagina and Anus, hence it is the most important part of the body. The muscles in this area will loosen because of various reasons
What is perineoplasty
Perineoplasty is a clinical procedure that is done to correct deformities, damages, and defects of the perineum. This surgery removes extra skin, bulges, and scars and loosens or tightening of the perineum area
Reasons for damage in the perineum
Obesity
In today’s world, due to lifestyle changes, many men and women become overweight and obese. This was not the scenario a few decades back. This excess weight gives stress to body parts like knees, ankles, hips, and also perineum. This extra weight pressurizes the muscles in that area which makes them lose elasticity. Because of this, stretched muscles do not get contracted. Hence, perineoplasty needs to be done.
Childbirth
During vaginal delivery, women have to exert a lot of pressure thus causing damage to the muscles and tissue in the perineum. Muscle damage in the perineum is caused mostly due to childbirth. Even in normal delivery cases, a fair amount of pressure is given to this area. In a few cases, gynecologists have to inject an incision on the perineum for ease of delivery. If stitches are not proper, this can also cause damage to the perineum.
Quick weight loss
When a person loses weight in a short duration, the stretched skin does not contract. This causes sagging of the excess skin in body parts including the pelvis and perineum. This excess skin can be removed by performing perineoplasty surgery.
Medical conditions where perineoplasty to be done
- Rectocele – Bulging of the front wall of the rectum into the back wall of the vagina.
- Cystocele – Bulging of the bladder that pushes the front wall of the vagina.
- Dyspareunia – Vagina doesn’t open up enough for comfortable intercourse. This can hurt when intercourse is attempted.
- Intraoital Vaginal Stenosis – Narrowing of the vagina (typically caused due to treatment of cancer)
- Incontinence – Difficulty in passing urine or stools
Perineoplasty Procedure
It is an outpatient surgery. Spinal or general anesthesia is provided before the surgery. A ‘V-shaped incision is made perineum area to perform the surgery. Laser or conventional methods are used to perform the surgery.
Recovery
Patients are advised not to participate in sex for six weeks. Lifting heavy weights or heavy workouts are not allowed. It is advisable to visit doctors in case of pain or minor bleeding.
Possible complications
- Excessive bleeding
- Infection
- Constipation
- Foul smell