Perineoplasty is a surgery that rebuilds the perineum — the tissue between the vaginal opening and anus — by bringing separated muscles back together and removing stretched or scarred skin. It narrows a wide or gaping vaginal opening, often after childbirth, and takes about an hour under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, usually as a day procedure.
- Duration
- About 1 hour (longer if combined)
- Anesthesia
- Local + sedation or general
- Hospital stay
- Usually same day
- Back to desk work
- About 1 week
- Cost guide
- ₩1.5M–₩3M (estimate)
- No intercourse
- About 6 weeks
What is perineoplasty and who needs it?
During vaginal birth the perineal muscles can stretch or tear. Even when well repaired, some women are left with a wide or gaping opening, a thin or scarred perineum, or tissue that feels "open". Perineoplasty restores the perineal body — the central support point of the pelvic floor.
Women may consider it for:
- A visibly wide vaginal opening or air entering the vagina
- Reduced sensation during sex after childbirth
- Painful or irregular scars after a tear or episiotomy
- A thin perineum that feels weak
If painful scar is the only issue, a smaller episiotomy scar revision may be enough.
Perineoplasty, vaginoplasty and perineal repair compared
| Procedure | Main target | Typical goal |
|---|---|---|
| Perineoplasty | Perineum and vaginal opening | Narrow the opening, rebuild the perineal body |
| Vaginoplasty | Vaginal canal walls and muscles | Tighten the canal itself |
| Perineal repair | Damaged perineal muscles or sphincter area | Restore function after injury |
| Episiotomy scar revision | A painful scar | Relieve pain and smooth the area |
Perineoplasty and vaginoplasty are frequently combined so that both the opening and the canal are addressed in one operation.
Your perineoplasty at Yoonho, step by step
- Examination in English At Yoonho Women’s Hospital in Apgujeong, Seoul, Dr. Joonho Cho examines the perineum, pelvic floor tone and checks for prolapse.
- Planning The degree of narrowing is planned carefully — too tight an opening can make sex painful.
- Pre-operative tests Blood tests, a Pap test if due, and infection screening when needed.
- Surgery A diamond- or triangle-shaped area of stretched skin is removed, the perineal muscles are brought together, and the skin is closed with absorbable stitches.
- Recovery and discharge After a short rest you usually go home the same day with pain relief and written aftercare in English.
- Follow-up Wound checks in the first 1–2 weeks and a review around 6 weeks.
- Wide or gaping vaginal opening
- Thin or scarred perineum after birth
- Air entering the vagina
- Reduced sensation during sex
- Aims to rebuild perineal support
- Narrower, more defined opening
- Smoother scar line
- Many patients notice greater comfort
Recovery timeline
- Days 1–3 Swelling and soreness, especially when sitting. Use cold packs and a cushion.
- Week 1 Many women return to desk work. Keep stools soft to avoid straining; rinse after using the toilet.
- Weeks 2–3 Discomfort eases; avoid baths, swimming and heavy lifting.
- About 6 weeks Intercourse, tampons and strenuous exercise usually resumed after a check-up.
- 2–3 months Tissue softens and final results are visible.
Risks and what it cannot do
Possible complications include bleeding, infection, wound separation, scarring, pain with intercourse (especially if the opening is too narrow), and, rarely, injury to nearby structures. A later vaginal birth can stretch the area again, so many women wait until their family is complete.
Perineoplasty does not treat prolapse of the bladder or uterus; that needs prolapse repair.
Cost and insurance
As a general guide, perineoplasty costs about ₩1,500,000–₩3,000,000, higher when combined with vaginoplasty; a written estimate is given after consultation. Cosmetic perineoplasty is generally not covered by Korean National Health Insurance. English receipts and medical certificates can be issued for insurance claims.
Why international patients choose Yoonho
Frequently asked questions
How is perineoplasty different from vaginoplasty?
Perineoplasty rebuilds the perineum and narrows the vaginal opening, while vaginoplasty tightens the vaginal canal. They are often combined.
Will sex be painful afterwards?
Some tenderness is common for the first weeks after you resume intercourse. The opening is planned conservatively to avoid lasting pain; lubricant and a gradual return help.
Can I have a vaginal birth after perineoplasty?
Yes, it is possible, but the area may stretch again. Tell your obstetrician about your surgery.
How long should I stay in Seoul?
Plan for about 7–10 days so the wound can be checked before you fly.
Is perineoplasty covered by insurance?
Cosmetic perineoplasty generally is not. If it treats a functional problem, coverage depends on your insurer; English documents are provided.
OB-GYN Specialist · Ph.D. · Medical Director
M.D., M.Med. & Ph.D., Chung-Ang University · OB-GYN specialist training, Eulji University Medical Center · Member, Korean Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last reviewed: . This page is for general information and does not replace an in-person consultation.
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Yoonho Hospital · 304 Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul · Mon–Fri 9:00–18:00, Sat 9:00–13:00 · Walk-ins welcome.