Female cosmetic genital surgery

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Plastic Surgery
• Sexual Medicine

Background:

• Female cosmetic genital surgery is increasingly discussed but lacks standardized care, outcome data, and consistent terminology.
• Ethical and specialty organizations express concern due to the absence of measurable standards and evidence-based norms.
• Patient motivations include cosmetic enhancement, increased self-esteem, and improved sexual function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address the concerns surrounding female cosmetic genital surgery.
• To highlight the need for established training guidelines and published long-term data.
• To advocate for a more descriptive and standardized terminology for these procedures.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature and ethical considerations.
• Analysis of the lack of standardization in nomenclature and training.
• Discussion of the importance of patient assessment and informed consent.

Main Results:

• Significant concerns exist regarding the lack of evidence-based outcomes and safety data.
• There is a need for standardized training and clear nomenclature.
• Surgeons must be trained in sexual medicine to identify and exclude patients with sexual dysfunction, mental impairment, or body dysmorphic disorder.

Conclusions:

• Female cosmetic genital surgery requires urgent establishment of training guidelines and publication of long-term safety and outcome data.
• A descriptive umbrella term, 'female cosmetic genital surgery,' is proposed, encompassing procedures like labiaplasty and vaginoplasty.
• Ethical considerations and patient well-being must be paramount, necessitating thorough surgeon training and patient counseling.