Vaginal tightening (Hyaluronic acid)

About vaginal tightening (Hyaluronic acid)

Vaginal tightening (Hyaluronic acid) is a non-surgical feminine aesthetic procedure that injects Cross-linked hyaluronic acid gel beneath the vaginal wall mucosa to physically restore volume to the vaginal cavity and reduce the internal diameter. It is suitable for those who experience laxity or discomfort due to childbirth or aging-related loss of vaginal wall elasticity. No scalpel is used, and the treatment time is approximately 15–30 minutes. Since a topical anesthetic cream is applied, pain is reduced, and you can return to daily life on the same day or the next day.

The mechanism of vaginal laxity and medical background

The vaginal wall is composed of abundant collagen fibers and elastic fibers, the production of which is maintained by the action of estrogen. However, when overstretching during childbirth, hormone decline with age, weight fluctuations, and other factors accumulate, collagen density decreases and muscle layer relaxation progresses, resulting in an enlarged vaginal cavity (vaginal laxity). A 2016 review in the International Journal of Women's Dermatology reported that childbirth, weight changes, and hormonal changes accompanying menopause lead to vaginal canal laxity and pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, significantly reducing sexual function and quality of life (doi: 10.1016/j.ijwd.2016.05.003).

How hyaluronic acid injection improves the condition

The hyaluronic acid used is a medical-grade gel treated with Cross-linking that resists degradation. When uniformly injected into the submucosal tissue of the vaginal wall, the gel physically fills the vaginal space and narrows the internal diameter. Additionally, hyaluronic acid has high water-retention capacity (retaining over 6L of water per gram), and is expected to help restore moisture to the mucosa. A 2016 randomized controlled trial in the International Journal of Community Based Nursing and Midwifery reported that hyaluronic acid cream improved vaginal atrophy symptoms (dryness and discomfort) in postmenopausal women and provided effects equivalent to hormone therapy. Because the injection formulation acts directly on the local target, more rapid improvement can be expected.

Treatment procedure

① Consultation and interview: We carefully listen to your current concerns and desired level of tightening to design the injection volume and injection sites. ② Surface anesthesia: Apply anesthetic cream and wait for 15–20 minutes. Local anesthetic injection is also available upon request. ③ Injection: Using a fine needle or blunt needle (cannula), inject Cross-linked hyaluronic acid gel from the vaginal entrance into the submucosal tissue of the posterior and lateral walls. ④ Confirmation and hemostasis: Confirm even distribution and apply pressure to any bleeding sites. ⑤ Treatment completion: Treatment time is approximately 15–30 minutes.

Downtime and precautions

Mild swelling or foreign-body sensation may occur immediately after treatment, but typically subsides within 2–5 days. Avoid sexual intercourse, hot baths (soaking in a bathtub), and tampon use for 1–2 weeks after treatment. Allow 2 weeks following treatment for pool and sauna use. Since hyaluronic acid is gradually broken down in the body, the duration of effect is generally 6–12 months. Consider periodic supplemental injections for maintenance. If the effect is excessive, the material can be dissolved with hyaluronidase (hyaluronic acid-dissolving enzyme), making it a safe option.

Duration of results and long-term care

The duration of Cross-linked hyaluronic acid varies depending on the formulation type, degree of Cross-linking, and individual metabolism, but is generally 6–12 months. Continuing pelvic floor muscle training (Kegel exercises) alongside treatment can help maintain and improve muscle strength, allowing you to experience the results for a longer period. For those seeking fundamental tightening effects or prioritizing durability, we also offer consultation on surgical vaginal tightening or combination treatments with energy-based therapies (RF, laser).