Hymenoplasty

What is Hymenoplasty Turkey?

Also known as hymenoplasty Turkey, hymen repair is a surgical procedure performed to restore a torn or damaged hymen. This procedure may be chosen for various reasons:

• Cultural and religious reasons: In some cultures, the hymen symbolizes purity and virginity. Therefore, a torn hymen before marriage may be considered shameful. Hymenoplasty can be chosen to preserve virginity before marriage or to ensure bleeding during the first sexual encounter after marriage in such communities.
• Psychological reasons: Some women may experience feelings of shame, guilt, or inadequacy due to the loss of their hymen. Hymenoplasty can provide an option for them to overcome these feelings and regain self-confidence.
• Physical reasons: Certain activities, such as sports or tampon use, can tear the hymen. In these cases, hymenoplasty may be performed for aesthetic reasons.

What is the Hymen?

Commonly referred to as the “hymen,” it is a thin, pale pink membrane located approximately 1 cm inside the vaginal entrance, resembling a ring-like structure with a central opening to allow menstrual flow. The hymen’s structure varies from person to person, and it may sometimes be completely closed, necessitating surgical intervention to allow menstrual blood to exit.
One frequently asked question is whether bleeding occurs if the hymen is elastic. In cases where the hymen is torn, the hymenoplasty method is used. A flexible, or “annular ring-type” hymen with minimal capillaries may not always cause bleeding during the first intercourse.
In some cultures, the state of the hymen and bleeding during the first intercourse hold significant importance. The structure and elasticity of the hymen, as well as the likelihood of bleeding during intercourse, can only be determined through a virginity examination, which may be performed with the individual’s consent.

Where is the Hymen Located?

The hymen is situated approximately 0.5-1 cm inside the vaginal entrance, forming a thin mucosal fold. Its thickness varies between 2-4 mm from person to person.

How is the Hymen Torn?

One common question is whether the hymen can tear from frictional contact. In some cases, if the hymen is delicate and located towards the external vaginal area, it may tear due to friction during intercourse. If a person is concerned about whether their hymen has torn from friction, they may consult a gynecologist for a virginity examination.

How is the Hymen Ruptured?

The thin mucosal fold at the vaginal entrance may tear in certain situations, commonly referred to as “hymen rupture.” The most well-known cause is sexual intercourse. Other causes include inserting a finger too deeply during masturbation, accidental insertion of a hard object into the vagina, or trauma from falls. Another common question is whether the hymen can rupture from a fall off a bicycle. In some cases, if bleeding occurs, it is possible. If bleeding persists, it is recommended to consult a gynecologist. Patients also often ask whether the hymen can rupture from friction. Frictional contact, common among young people seeking sexual gratification, can lead to hymen rupture if the penis comes into contact with the vaginal entrance.

How to Tell if the Hymen is Ruptured?

After sexual intercourse, women may experience bleeding, spotting, or staining. Bleeding does not always occur during the first intercourse; this is often due to the hymen’s elasticity. Generally, bleeding occurs during the first sexual encounter, indicating hymen rupture.

How is a Hymen Examination Performed?

First, the patient positions themselves on a gynecological table with legs spread apart to expose the vulva and vaginal area. The specialist uses two gauze pads to gently separate the labia majora, making the hymen visible. If there is a tear, it is noted during the examination. This process determines whether the hymen is intact or ruptured.

How is Hymenoplasty Performed?

There are two techniques: temporary hymenoplasty and permanent hymenoplasty. Temporary hymenoplasty should be performed one week to ten days before intercourse. The remaining hymenal tissue is stitched together using a special technique, and the procedure takes approximately 15 minutes. Permanent hymenoplasty, on the other hand, can be performed at any time and ensures bleeding during intercourse, even years later. This technique involves creating a new hymen from the vaginal mucosa using stitches that leave no visible scars. Both methods are reliable, and the success depends on the surgeon’s expertise and technique.

When Should Hymenoplasty Be Performed?

Temporary hymenoplasty must be performed one week to ten days before intercourse. Permanent hymenoplasty, however, should be performed at least one month before intercourse. Once completed, the hymen retains its restored structure for years.

How is Hymenoplasty Performed?

The procedure is carried out by a specialist gynecologist using special techniques under either local anesthesia or sedation to ensure patient confidentiality and comfort. It can be performed using two different methods: temporary and permanent.

Types of Hymens

There are many types of hymens, including:

• Annular hymen (circular with an opening in the middle)
• Septate hymen (with a central partition)
• Subseptate hymen (with a partial partition)
• Crescent-shaped hymen
• Fimbrial hymen

Some hymens may be completely closed from birth, preventing menstrual flow and requiring surgical intervention.

How is Hymenoplasty with the Flap Technique Performed?

In the flap technique, a type of permanent hymenoplasty, a flap is created from vaginal mucosa and a new hymen is formed using a special technique. The vaginal mucosa is carefully dissected, and the hymen is reconstructed with special stitches that leave no scars.

How Long Does the Flap Operation Take?

A successful flap operation takes approximately 20-40 minutes, depending on the type of anesthesia used and the patient’s tissue structure.

Is the Flap Operation Painful?

Long-acting local anesthetics ensure that the patient feels no pain during or after the procedure.

How is Hymenoplasty Performed with Micro-Surgery?

In contrast to older techniques, micro-surgery for hymenoplasty involves re-attaching the edges of the hymen using special surgical tools, resulting in a shorter procedure time and more precise results.

Laser Hymenoplasty

With technological advancements, hymenoplasty can also be performed using lasers. Unlike traditional methods, laser beams make precise cuts, followed by special stitching. Immediate repair after recent sexual intercourse is possible without any issues if there is fresh bleeding.

When is Short-Term Hymen Repair Performed?

In temporary procedures, the repair must be done no later than ten days before intercourse, though it can be performed a week or even two days in advance.

How is Short-Term Hymenoplasty Performed?

Temporary repair involves stitching together the remnants of the hymen using a special technique. A new hymen is not created; instead, the existing edges are reconnected.

Is Short-Term Hymen Repair Painful?

No, as long-acting local anesthetics are used, ensuring the area is fully numb. It is an outpatient procedure, and patients are discharged the same day.

Preferred Anesthesia Methods

Procedures can be performed painlessly and comfortably under local anesthesia or sedation (mild anesthesia).

Success Rate of Hymenoplasty

The success rate depends on the surgeon’s experience, the technique used, the patient’s vaginal and collagen structure, and adherence to post-operative care. For this reason, patients undergoing permanent repair are called for a follow-up one month after the procedure.

Is Hymenoplasty Performed by Gynecologists or Plastic Surgeons?

Hymen repair is best performed by gynecologists experienced in genital aesthetics, as they are more familiar with genital anatomy, which increases the success of the procedure.

Risks of Hymenoplasty Surgery

Potential risks are minimized by assessing the patient’s chronic illnesses, allergy history, and blood disorders before the procedure. Since the procedure is localized, the risk is very low.

How much does hymenoplasty cost in Turkey?