Vaginoplasty is a surgical procedure to create a vagina and vulva – including labia and clitoris and shorten the urethra (the tube you urinate from) and remove the penis (penectomy) and testes (orchidectomy). This procedure is performed under general anaesthesia, and the surgical changes made are reversible if needed.
Following is a summary of the stages involved in vaginoplasty:
- Removal of testes (orchiectomy)
- Removal of penis (penectomy)
- Creation of a vaginal cavity/neovagina (vaginoplasty)
- Creation of a clitoris (clitoroplasty)
- Creation of labia (labiaplasty)
You may be recommended to use a dilator after surgery to prevent shrinking to the length and width of the vagina. Using a dilator after surgery will help prevent the contraction of the skin graft inside the vagina and improve the elasticity of the vaginal wall.
Benefits after vaginoplasty
With vaginoplasty, you may be able to have penetrative vaginal sexual intercourse (once you are ready and fully healed). Like many women, naturally occurring lubrication may not be sufficient, and you may need lubricant.
Risks from surgery
As with all surgery that involves general anaesthetic there is a risk of complications, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT), infection, nerve damage, acute or chronic pain, and the need for surgical revision.
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