As women, we deal with a lot of issues that can affect our self-confidence. While we can learn coping mechanisms to get over these hurdles, in some circumstances, we need some outside help.
One area that we can be particularly sensitive in is our sexuality. For example, society places major importance on being a virgin and having an intact hymen. Some women aren’t born with one, or they may have lost theirs without sexual activity, and they want to fix this.
Therefore, a procedure to consider is hymenoplasty. What is a hymenoplasty, why should you get one, and what can you expect from it? Read on to find out.
What Is a Hymenoplasty?
A hymenoplasty is a type of female genital surgery and is also known as hymenorrhaphy, hymen reconstruction surgery, or virginity restoration surgery.
This procedure reconstructs the hymen, which is a thin membrane that partially covers the vaginal opening. In many cultures and religions, an intact hymen is a physical sign that a woman is still a virgin.
However, it’s entirely possible to not have a hymen and still be a virgin. For example, some women are born without one. In addition, the hymen can be stretched or torn due to various reasons, including tampon use or injury.
Why Do People Get a Hymenoplasty?
First of all, you might have the question, “Can your hymen grow back?” The answer is no, and this is the reason why people get this procedure done, as they can’t restore the hymen on their own.
But why would they want to do this? Well, as we’ve stated earlier, an intact hymen is a sign of virginity in certain cultures or religious traditions, so some women may want to meet these expectations. They may wish to bleed during future intercourse as a sign of virginity.
They can also want a hymenoplasty after sexual trauma or abuse. When they can take control of losing their virginities on their terms, these women can experience psychological healing.
Or it’s as simple as the procedure being a personal choice. Some individuals may feel a restored sense of self-confidence after having the surgery, as the hymenoplasty before and after situations are completely different.
How Is Hymenoplasty Surgery Performed?
Are you now curious about how a hymenoplasty is performed? We’ll discuss the steps below.
Consultation and Evaluation
You’ll first meet with the surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations. They’ll go over your medical history and any past gynecological surgeries or trauma. You might have to go through a pelvic exam.
If you’re approved for the surgery, then you’ll be advised to avoid blood thinners and alcohol before the procedure. Your surgeon will also give you standard pre-surgery instructions, don’t eat 6-8 hours before, arrange for post-op transportation, etc.
As for the procedure itself, there are three types: basic hymen stitching (hymenorrhaphy), flap method, and alloplant technique.
Basic Hymen Stitching (Hymenorrhaphy)
This is the most commonly performed technique. It’s done with local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.
If there are remnants of the torn hymen present, the surgeon will pull the remaining tissue together and stitch it together using dissolvable sutures. The goal is to recreate a small ring of tissue that will typically tear (and maybe bleed) during sexual intercourse.
This is an outpatient procedure that lasts 30-45 minutes. You can go home the same day.
Flap Method
If there are no hymenal remnants, then the surgeon will use the flap method with general anesthesia.
They’ll use a small flap of tissue from the vaginal wall to reconstruct the hymen. It’s shaped into a ring and stitched into place. Over time, it’ll heal and resemble a natural hymen, which may tear during sex.
This surgery takes a little longer (1-1.5 hours), but is still considered an outpatient procedure with same-day discharge.
Alloplant Technique
This technique is less commonly used, as it’s controversial. It’s typically used for those who want instant results, as it uses biomaterial implants to create an artificial hymen.
The alloplant technique isn’t widely available and it’s more common in certain regions, such as the Middle East or South Asia.
Recovery and Aftercare
Because a hymenoplasty is an outpatient procedure, you’ll only experience mild swelling, spotting, and discomfort for a few days. If you have any pain, you can manage it with over-the-counter medications or prescribed pain relievers.
While recovering, you should keep the area clean and dry, and wear loose cotton underwear for better comfort. Avoid douching or inserting anything into the vagina; this includes sexual intercourse. You shouldn’t do strenuous activities for at least 4-6 weeks too (this is how long it typically takes to heal).
If you notice excessive bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, or a fever, then contact your surgeon. These are all signs of an infection.
Risks and Complications
In general, hymenoplasty is safe, but all procedures (including this one) have the usual risks attached. They include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Scarring
Because you have a new hymen, you may also experience tightness or discomfort during future intercourse.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
There are some real ethical concerns regarding hymenoplasty, as critics argue that it reinforces harmful myths around virginity and women’s sexuality. On the other hand, supporters view it as a matter of personal autonomy and cultural choice. If you’re thinking of getting this procedure, then make sure it’s something you’re doing for yourself, and not because you’re being pressured to.
You should also note that hymenoplasty is illegal in some countries due to ethical concerns. At the time of writing, it’s legal in Mexico, so it’s a place to consider.
See if a Hymenoplasty Is Right for You
The answer to the question, “What is a hymenoplasty?” is that it’s a surgery that restores the appearance of the hymen. It’s usually a quick and safe outpatient procedure that has minimal downtime.
If you’d like to restore your hymen, then make sure you choose a board-certified surgeon with experience in this field. That way, you’re more likely to be satisfied with your results.
Get in touch with us today if you want to schedule a consultation for a hymenoplasty. Dr. Valdez is an internationally recognized surgeon with over 16 years of experience.
References:
- Eserdağ S, Kurban D, Kiseli M, Alan Y, Alan M. A New Practical Surgical Technique for Hymenoplasty: Primary Repair of Hymen With Vestibulo-Introital Tightening Technique. Aesthet Surg J. 2021;41(3):333-337. doi:10.1093/asj/sjaa077
- Saraiya HA. Surgical revirgination: Four vaginal mucosal flaps for reconstruction of a hymen. Indian J Plast Surg. 2015;48(2):192-195. doi:10.4103/0970-0358.163060
- Hymen: Overview, Function & Anatomy. Cleveland Clinic. Accessed May 27, 2025. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/22718-hymen