Intimate rejuvenation: understand the procedure that is increasingly sought after
The search for intimate female rejuvenation procedures has grown throughout the world. According to the 2024 global report from the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), the number of women who resorted to interventions aimed at intimate rejuvenation increased by 20% in the last two years.
For experts interviewed by CNN Brasil, this increase is related to breaking the taboo surrounding the topic of intimate health and the greater search for quality of life.
"Women no longer accept discomfort as a natural part of life. They are more informed, know their own bodies better and speak more naturally about intimate health. Furthermore, menopause and sexual dysfunctions are no longer taboo topics, increasing the demand for treatments that improve comfort, function and quality of life", explains gynecologist Iana Vilasbôas Carruego.
Factors such as hormonal changes, genetic predisposition, pregnancy, childbirth and menopause can cause changes in the intimate region throughout life. Among the most common complaints among women are loss of tissue elasticity, vaginal dryness, discomfort during sexual intercourse and aesthetic changes to the vulva.
"Decreased lubrication and urinary symptoms, such as urgency and incontinence, and anatomical changes, such as flaccidity of the labia majora, hypertrophy of the labia minora and changes related to weight and aging", adds Carruego.
The term "intimate rejuvenation" encompasses different procedures, which can be surgical or non-invasive, and they do not necessarily seek to rejuvenate the intimate region, but also to improve its functionality.
Among the most popular procedures are laser and radiofrequency treatments, used to stimulate collagen production and improve tissue quality.
Among surgeries, labiaplasty, a procedure that reduces or reshapes the small vaginal lips, is among the most performed interventions. Although the aesthetic component is relevant, doctors reinforce that the main indication for intimate rejuvenation is to improve quality of life.
"Aesthetics, in most cases, go hand in hand with function. Hypertrophy of the labia minora, for example, causes not only aesthetic discomfort, but also functional discomfort. Patients feel discomfort in underwear, during sexual intercourse and when cleaning. Clitoral hypertrophy can leave the clitoris exposed and become hypersensitive, or, with friction, loss of sensitivity. The lack of fat in the labia majora can cause pain when riding a bicycle, in tight clothing due to lack of protection and 'padding' promoted by fat. In addition to aesthetic complaints, in which insecurity can cause loss of quality of sexual life, libido, for emotional and psychological reasons", details Renata Magalhães, plastic surgeon with expertise in intimate surgeries and full member of the Brazilian Society of Plastic Surgery (SBCP).
Who can do it?
The procedure is recommended for women who suffer from severe vaginal dryness, pain during sexual intercourse, recurrent urinary infections caused by the loss of the natural protective barrier, or flaccidity that causes involuntary loss of urine when coughing or sneezing.
The indication must be individualized and based on symptoms that impact the patient's quality of life.
Women who experience physical discomfort, functional changes or aesthetic dissatisfaction may be candidates for treatments, as long as they undergo a detailed medical evaluation.
"These treatments are indicated when there is an impact on a woman's quality of life, whether physical, sexual or emotional. Pain during sexual intercourse, vaginal dryness, urinary incontinence, discomfort with clothing, limitations in physical activities and anatomical changes that generate suffering are examples of situations that may justify treatment", details Carruego.
Despite technological advances, experts warn that the procedures are not risk-free. Possible complications include infections, bleeding, inadequate healing, persistent pain and changes in sensitivity.
In non-surgical treatments, local irritation, burns and results below expectations may also occur.
"Any surgery must be carried out in a surgical center, even if it is minor. Do not do it in an office, as the risk of complications is greater. And the surgical center is also safer for unforeseen, urgent and emergency situations. Last point: ask to see several before and after photos so that you can evaluate the doctor's work and decide with more confidence that you will be satisfied", adds Magalhães.
Source: CNN