The demand for cosmetic gynecology procedures is rising globally.1 However, the language surrounding these procedures can often be complex or misunderstood by patients.
This glossary aims to provide clarity, offering straightforward definitions of common treatments, terms, and concepts. We’ve divided the terms into clear sections by body area and treatment type to make it easier to navigate and understand the language used in this field.
Labia Minora
- Labia Minora Reduction (Labiaplasty): A surgical procedure designed to reduce the size or reshape the inner labia. It can address both aesthetic concerns and physical discomfort.
- Labia Minora Elongation: A condition where the inner labia extend beyond the outer labia, potentially causing discomfort during physical activities or sexual intercourse.
- Surgical Techniques: These include direct excision, wedge excision, deepithelialization, W-plasty, composite reduction, and Z-plasty. Providers often follow detailed procedural standards like those outlined by the American Board of Cosmetic Gynecology’s certification standards.
Clitoral Region
- Clitoral Hood Reduction (Clitoral Prepuce Reduction): Surgical removal of excess skin covering the clitoris, sometimes performed with labiaplasty.
- Clitoral Amplification (O-Shot): Injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or other fillers into the clitoris, aiming to enhance sensitivity or sexual response, though evidence is still limited.
- Clitoral Frenulectomy: Surgical removal of part of the frenulum, the small tissue fold below the clitoris, often done alongside other labial procedures.
Leaders in the field, like the American Board of Cosmetic Gynecology’s leadership team, help shape ethical and safety standards for these treatments.
Labia Majora
- Labia Majora Augmentation: Adding volume to the outer labia using fat transfer (lipofilling) or hyaluronic acid fillers.
- Labia Majora Reduction: Surgical or liposuction-based reduction to decrease size or prominence.
- Labia Majora Tightening: Non-surgical treatments using devices like lasers or radiofrequency to firm the tissue.
For professional guidelines, see the certification standards used by certified providers.
Mons Pubis
- Monsplasty: Surgical reduction and lifting of the fatty area over the pubic bone, often done after major weight changes.
- Energy-Based Tightening: Non-surgical methods that use heat-based devices to improve the firmness of the mons.
Vaginal Procedures
- Vaginal Tightening (Surgical or Energy-Based): Surgical repairs to narrow the vaginal canal or genital opening, or energy-based treatments like radiofrequency or lasers to firm tissue.
- Vaginal Amplification (G-Shot): Injections (often PRP or fillers) into the anterior vaginal wall to potentially enhance sexual sensation, though strong supporting evidence is limited.
For professionals defining the future of the field, the American Board of Cosmetic Gynecology’s leadership team plays an important role in advancing training and setting standards.
Genital Depigmentation
- Energy-Based or Topical Depigmentation: Using lasers, chemical peels, or topical products to lighten the skin of the vulva, perineum, or anus. Patients should be aware that peer-reviewed data supporting these treatments are minimal.
Key Therapeutic Descriptors
- Reduction: Removing tissue to decrease size or prominence.
- Augmentation: Adding volume or reshaping tissue.
- Amplification: Enhancing surface area or sensitivity, typically through injections.
- Tightening: Firming tissues using energy-based methods.
- Depigmentation: Lightening skin color with topical or device-based treatments.
Filler Types
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): Concentrated platelets from a patient’s own blood, used to stimulate tissue or nerve activity.
- Lipofilling: Transferring fat from another body area to the genital region for added volume.
- Hyaluronic Acid or Other Fillers: Injectable materials used for reshaping or volume enhancement.
For details on how qualified providers are trained and evaluated, visit the American Board of Cosmetic Gynecology’s certification standards.
Final Thoughts
Understanding cosmetic gynecology terms is a key step for anyone considering treatment or working in this specialized area. With so many procedures and approaches available, having a clear grasp of the language makes it easier to discuss options and set expectations. Whether you’re a patient or a healthcare provider, using the right terms builds trust and clarity.
For professionals ready to deepen their expertise and credibility, consider taking the next step: get certified with the American Board of Cosmetic Gynecology and strengthen your practice with advanced training.
References
1. Garcia, Bobby, et al. “Joint Report on Terminology for Cosmetic Gynecology.” International Urogynecology Journal, vol. 33, no. 6, May 2022, pp. 1367–86. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-021-05010-7.
