The hymen is a thin membrane that partially covers the vaginal opening. In the past, the integrity of a woman’s hymen was used as evidence of her virginity, since the hymen would normally only be broken during her first sexual encounter. However, in this modern age of vigorous exercise and tampons, the hymen may be broken for a number of non-sexual reasons.
Hymen repair, reconstruction or restoration, also known as hymenoplasty or hymenorrhaphy, can restore the hymen to an unbroken state. This procedure can be performed out of respect for religious or cultural influences, or for personal reasons. It’s not uncommon to incorporate hymen repair along with other vaginal rejuvenation procedures.
Dr. Otto Placik is a female genital rejuvenation specialist serving Chicago and its suburbs. A board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Placik understands the significance that hymen repair and reconstruction can represent, and has helped women feel whole and confident again.
Please contact us online or call our Chicago or Arlington Heights plastic surgery offices for more information on hymen repair and reconstruction, including prices.
Dr. Placik is a board certified plastic surgeon in Chicago and an active member of The American Society of Plastic Surgeons. He received his medical degree from Northwestern University where he also completed residencies in general and plastic and reconstructive surgery.
Read more >>Virginity used to be the greatest determining factor of a woman’s worth as a new bride. If her sexual history was suspect, the family of the bride could present the sheets from the wedding night to prove their daughter’s innocence, as breaking the hymen typically causes bleeding after intercourse. While today’s women may espouse and assimilate with contemporaneous ideals of female independence and strength, many still value their cultural traditions; there are still many reasons why a woman may prefer an intact hymen for her wedding night, or to restore her hymen for personal reasons.
In the course of the consultation, Dr. Placik discusses the unique considerations of the individual with attention to their specific personal and, perhaps, cultural expectations. Different techniques may be applied depending on the desired outcome and timing. During a standard procedure, Dr. Placik first treats the fragments of the hymen to remove the top layer of tissue through a process called denuding, which allows the membrane edges to heal together after surgery. Next, Dr. Placik gathers together the remnants of the hymen and reattaches them using dissolvable stitches. However, there are a variety of alternative surgical approaches.
Dr. Placik most often performs hymenoplasty as an outpatient procedure, so neither general anesthesia nor a hospital stay is required. Instead, Dr. Placik uses a local anesthetic to ensure that you’re comfortable throughout the surgery, or can offer oral sedation if you prefer. The entire surgery takes just an hour or two.
The actual restoration of the hymen takes place during your recovery, as the body’s natural healing process heals and regrows the reconstructed membrane when a standard procedure is performed. Most patients can resume normal daily activities almost immediately. More vigorous exercise, tampon use and sexual activity should all be abstained during the recommended period. Women can expect sexual intercourse after hymenoplasty to rupture their repaired hymen, often accompanied by some discomfort and spotting or bleeding.
Women who are concerned about the integrity of their hymen may be good candidates for hymenoplasty. Hymen reconstruction may be performed for societal reasons, as part of the healing process following sexual abuse, to correct an injury to the hymen or as part of “revirginization,” the process of reclaiming a virginal status for yourself or as a symbolic gift for your partner.
Dr. Placik will meet with you at our office in Chicago or Arlington Heights, where you’ll talk about your personal hopes for hymen repair and reconstruction. Dr. Placik will conduct a pelvic exam to determine the best approach to take and discuss your options with you, as well as gain a better understanding of your goals for surgery. Dr. Placik may recommend additional genital rejuvenation procedures if he feels they may better help you meet those goals.
The length of time since your hymen was torn has no bearing on the outcome of your hymenoplasty. Whether your hymen was broken in childhood due to a love for gymnastics or during a sexual encounter as a young adult, Dr. Placik can help recreate a complete hymen again.
Costs for repair or reconstruction of your hymen depend on a number of different factors, including the complexity of the procedure and whether additional surgeries will be performed as well. The total cost will include Dr. Placik’s fee, as well as any payments for the surgical facility or anesthesiologist, if necessary. Dr. Placik and his staff strive to provide excellent value and can help you with cosmetic surgery financing to make your procedure even more affordable.
During your hymenoplasty, Dr. Placik will administer a local anesthetic to ensure that you feel comfortable throughout your procedure. The surgery itself is relatively quick, and you can normally return home to begin your recovery as soon as later the same day. You may notice a feeling of tightness or soreness for the first few days, although this is mild for most women. You should refrain from sexual intercourse and tampon use for the recommended period.
The risks associated with hymen repair are considered very minimal, and include discomfort, bleeding or hymen discoloration, premature hymen breakdown or, conversely, a repair that may require surgical release or intervention. The risks for more serious complications, such as hematoma or numbness, are rare but still possible.
Dr. Placik promises you his best possible care and attention. If you would like to schedule a private consultation to learn more about hymen repair and reconstruction, please contact us online or call us at 847-398-1660.
To meet with double board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Otto J. Placik, you can request a consultation online or call our Arlington Heights office at 847-398-1660 or our Chicago office at 312-787-5313 to schedule your appointment. We look forward to meeting with you and helping you look your very best.
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