This thesis is written for the purpose of presenting the correct perspective of the above subject and is not meant to be advertisorial.

In this day of so-called life style medicine, much is being offered in the field of aesthetic medicine. No one knows what the long term side effects of these applications. Under the same guise, CVS is offered to patients as an enhancement of appearance and sexual improvement. The other term, which is propriety, courtesy of Dr Matlock, is designer laser vaginoplasty (DLV).

In simple terms, CVS involves the alteration of the natural appearance of the external female genitalia. The appearance of the external genitalia is dependent on race and physique, and nothing in the way of normal activities alter its appearance, except the process of vaginal delivery.

Even with normal vaginal delivery, the only part of the external genital that is altered is the area between the lower edge of the vagina and the anus (the perineum). This area becomes scarred due to the need for episiotomy in the process of delivery of the baby. All other components of the external genitalia, like the labia minora and majora and the clitoris are unchanged.

Hymenoplasty

This is probably the most common CVS procedure, which hopes to recreate the hymen.

The hymen is a ring of tissue that is left at the entrance of the vagina after the formation of the vagina during foetal development. It is usually torn at the first sexual intercourse and then degenerates into a very thin rim of tissue at the entrance of the vagina. It can be recreated by surgical means, and the extent of the plastic operation is dependent on the amount of residual tissue. This in turn will determine if it can be done as an outpatient or day surgical procedure.

The hymen is a sign of virginity and its importance varies greatly in different societies and cultures.

However, in the real world, recreating the hymen will not recreate virginity in total.

Virginity embodies not only the hymen, but mind, body and soul!

Labialplasty

Trimming the labial minora is the more common procedure, as some women may complain that it is too large. There are very few medical indications for this procedure.

In women who are very active in sport, it may be a hinderance. A large labial minora may be uncomfortable during sexual intercourse.

I suspect that the dawn of the minimalist panty (call it by any name) is the reason why there is demand for this operation.

Whatever may the reason, it is well to know that the labia minora is highly innervated, and is essential for sexual stimulation. By trimming it, the end result may be aesthetic, but sexual stimulation may be reduced. Moreover, if there is excessive scarring due to poor technique or infection, dyspareunia (painful sex) is the end result.

The other labial cosmetic surgery is enhancement of the labia majora, to make it look more prominent. It is essentially aesthetic, and adds nothing to function. The surgery involves injection of silicon or the transplantation of fat from the thighs.