Vulvar Concerns in Women with a History of Abdominoplasty: A Case Series

Abstract

Objectives The aim of the study was to present a series of women with a history of traditional abdominoplasty or circumferential abdominoplasty (belt lipectomy) with vulvar concerns and anatomic changes. Methods We describe 5 women with a history of abdominoplasty who were referred with symptoms of vulvar pain, dyspareunia, lower urinary tract symptoms, and/or lesion/mass. Physical examination revealed elevation of the clitoris on the pubic symphysis with or without retraction of the clitoral hood in each. Results Abdominoplasty can result in anatomic changes to the female pubic region after elevation of the mons pubis and consequent elevation of the clitoris with or without retraction of the clitoral hood. Although causation cannot be confirmed from this series, a temporal association of vulvar/clitoral pain, pelvic floor dysfunction, and anatomic alterations with or without lesions after abdominoplasty was present in each case. Conclusions Awareness regarding potential sequelae from anatomic alteration may lead to improved patient counseling and modified surgical techniques to avoid significant elevation of the mons pubis and vulvar commissure.