Life Healthcare is a leading private hospital operator in South Africa and primarily serves the market for privately insured individuals, representing approximately eight million people. The group provides mainly acute care, high technology private hospital services.
The extensive hospital network includes 64 hospitals (of which 57 are majority owned by Life Healthcare and another seven in which the group holds substantial minority ownership), providing a range of healthcare services throughout South Africa.
What is Hymenoplasty? Hymenoplasty or Hymen Reconstruction Surgery is a procedure to artificially restore the hymen. The aim of a hymenoplasty procedure is to reinstate bleeding during sexual intercourse, in particular for the woman who is getting married for the first time. Hymenoplasty is culturally sensitive and linked to a belief in certain cultures that the hymen is proof of virginity.
How is Hymenoplasty typically carried out?
The surgeon draws together the perforated hymen and stitches it to leave a small opening in the vagina. The hymenoplasty is designed to recreate the look of the “virgin” vagina which will bleed on penetration.
What surgeon performs Hymenoplasty?
Hymen reconstruction is carried out by a cosmetic surgeon.
About Hymenoplasty
Key facts to plan your treatment: how long it takes, your hospital stay, anaesthesia, risks and recovery.
Duration of surgery/treatment
The hymen reconstruction procedure takes up to an hour to complete.
Days admitted
None. Hymenoplasty is performed on an outpatient basis.
Anesthesia
The hymen reconstruction procedure is usually carried out under local anesthesia.
Recovery
- The patient will be able to go back to work the day following the hymenoplasty surgery.
- Full recovery will not take place for 6 to 8 weeks.
Risks
The hymenoplasty surgery is a simple procedure but it does carry some risks.
Risks include:
- Loss of sensitivity in the area.
- Infection.
- Bleeding.
After care
- Refrain from sexual activity until the hymenoplasty is fully healed – up to 6 months but usually between 6 to 8 weeks.
- Refrain from taking part in vigorous exercise for up to 12 weeks.
- Take painkillers after the hymenoplasty surgery to ease discomfort and swelling.
Hospital Group
Hospital Group
Private Hospital