Cosmiatria Genital: O Limite dos Procedimentos Estéticos Entre a Ginecologia e a Cirurgia Plástica - uma revisão literária

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Brazil leads in intimate surgeries, with labiaplasty accounting for 18.43% of global procedures in 2019 (Rohden, 2021). This growing demand is influenced by aesthetic standards, media, and pornography (Lowe, 2021). Genital cosmetology includes labiaplasty, vaginoplasty, vulvar fillers, and genital whitening, sparking debates on ethics, functionality, and aesthetics. While gynecologists prioritize function, plastic surgeons focus on appearance. In Brazil, 79.2% of labiaplasties are performed by plastic surgeons, compared to 34.5% in the United States (Rohden, 2021). The lack of anatomical standards and the pathologization of genital diversity raise ethical dilemmas (Panicker, 2022). Collaboration between specialties can improve safety and outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the complementarity between gynecology and plastic surgery in aesthetic genital procedures and their medical, ethical, and sociocultural impacts.

METHODS: A qualitative literature review was conducted using databases such as Scielo, PubMed, Lilacs, and the Brazilian Journal of Plastic Surgery, focusing on articles published between 2019 and 2025. Systematic reviews, clinical trials, and medical guidelines were prioritized. Studies without peer review or direct relevance were excluded.

CONCLUSION: Labiaplasty is the most common intimate procedure, often performed for aesthetic reasons, raising medical and ethical concerns. Other procedures include vaginoplasty, vulvar augmentation, mons pubis liposuction, clitoral hood reduction, and genital whitening (Medeiros, 2019). Joint action between gynecologists and plastic surgeons enhances outcomes: gynecologists preserve function and sensitivity, while surgeons improve aesthetics. Many women lack awareness of anatomical diversity and pathologize natural variations (Rohden, 2021; Lowe, 2021). The effectiveness of vaginal rejuvenation with CO₂ laser remains limited and controversial (Cheng, 2021). The absence of regulation and long-term studies exposes patients to risks such as scarring, infections, and loss of sexual sensitivity (Panicker, 2022). Formal guidelines, professional training, and patient education on female anatomy are essential to ensure safe, ethical practices that respect women's autonomy