Cosmetic Surgery and Beauty Magazine #65

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Adelaide pelvic reconstructive surgeon Dr Oseka Onuma
says genital surgery can restore confidence, self-image and quality
of life in patients with aesthetic or functional concerns.
Caitlin Bishop reports.
Sexual and reproductive health is integral to a
woman’s mental and physical wellbeing. Questions
surrounding the appearance and function of the
vagina and urinary system can plague women of all ages,
yet talking openly about these concerns can be challenging
for some women. A blanket of taboo means there is a lack
of open and honest public dialogue that makes it difficult for
some women to seek successful treatment – or even know
there are treatment options available.
Dr Oseka Onuma is a gynaecologist and pelvic
reconstructive surgeon based in Adelaide. He explains
that there is a widespread misunderstanding of what
is classified as ‘normal’ in both vaginal anatomy and
urogynaecological health.
‘I never make assumptions, as there is such a wide
spectrum of what is “normal”,’ he says. ‘The real problem
may be more subtle than the patient’s main concern, so
I need to know not only the symptoms but the length of
time they’ve been endured and the way they have impeded
upon the patient’s way of life.’
According to Dr Onuma, this wide spectrum of normality
means a thorough examination, with an experienced
doctor, is paramount in achieving an accurate diagnosis
and establishing the best treatment plan.
‘A thorough examination is required to correlate the
clinical findings with the symptoms, this results in high
success rates – both in terms of the surgery and patient
satisfaction,’ he explains.
Treating urinary incontinence
In cases of stress urinary incontinence, urethra
function is usually compromised and the
surrounding muscles and pelvic tissue are generally
weakened. This means urine can escape during
exercise or other movements such as coughing
or laughing.
There is a minimally invasive procedure to help
correct stress urinary incontinence. The treatment
uses tensionless vaginal tape (TVT), which is
inserted through the vagina and positioned
underneath the urethra to create a supportive sling.
This is held in place by surrounding tissue – no
stitches are needed – and, during movement or
exercise, the mesh supports the urethra and helps
maintain its seal.
Functional and cosmetic rejuvenation
In some cases, functional and cosmetic concerns go
hand-in-hand in genital surgery. The shape and anatomy of
genitalia is unique to every woman and the effects of child
bearing and age can take their toll on some women more
than others.
Many women suffer problems with their genitalia
after childbirth that can contribute to feelings of self-
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