>3,000 Pelvic Reconstructive Procedures
Double Board-Certified
Dual-Fellowship Trained, Cleveland Clinic
What Functional Vaginoplasty Addresses
Functional vaginoplasty repairs pelvic floor muscles and connective tissue rather than treating only the skin at the vaginal opening. Dr. Kevin Stepp, MD, FACOG, URPS, a double board-certified urogynecologist, evaluates the causes of laxity and plans the operation around vaginal function, caliber, and structural support.
Vaginoplasty and vaginal tightening surgery describe the same foundational procedure: surgical reconstruction of the vaginal canal and its supporting pelvic floor musculature. Most patients benefit from a combination of targeted repairs tailored to their anatomy:
A Clinical Distinction Worth Understanding
Vaginoplasty is not limited to tightening the vaginal opening. Depending on the anatomy, Dr. Stepp may reconstruct the full length of the vaginal wall, including posterior and anterior support structures and connective tissue along the canal. A procedure limited to the opening does not address those internal support defects.
Advanced Pelvic Surgery and Urogynecology of Charlotte • 11210 Golf Links Dr North, #100, Charlotte, NC 28277 • (980) 771-0726
1. Posterior Repair
Reconstruction of the posterior vaginal wall, underlying connective tissue, and collagen support — correcting rectocele and restoring structural integrity of the vaginal floor. The vaginal attachments to the surrounding levator ani muscles are repaired. Where levator weakness is identified, Dr. Stepp may recommend adjunct strengthening with EmpowerRF VTone or pelvic floor physical therapy.
2. Anterior Repair
Elevation and support of the anterior vaginal wall and bladder, addressing cystocele and restoring internal vaginal contour and caliber. This repair may also improve associated pelvic heaviness or pressure.
3. Perineoplasty
Reconstruction of the perineal body — frequently disrupted during vaginal delivery — to restore the vaginal opening, closure, and external perineal anatomy. Also available as a standalone procedure when indicated.
4. Concurrent Incontinence Repair
When stress urinary incontinence is present, it can be treated surgically at the time of vaginoplasty when clinically appropriate.
Vaginoplasty may be combined with labiaplasty or labia majora restoration in one surgical session when appropriate. The Signature Intimate Restoration™ page explains the combined approach.
Surgical Experience
Dual-Fellowship Training.
>3,000 Reconstructive Procedures.
Dr. Kevin Stepp, MD, FACOG, URPS holds dual-fellowship training in both Urogynecology/Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery and Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery — both completed at Cleveland Clinic. To Dr. Stepp's knowledge, fewer than 10 surgeons in the United States hold this combination of credentials.
He has performed more than 3,000 pelvic reconstructive procedures over a 20-year career, including primary repairs, revision surgery, and combined procedures.
Recovery, Pricing & Insurance
Vaginoplasty is a significant surgical procedure. Clear expectations help patients prepare for recovery.
Recovery Timeline
Most patients manage light daily activities within 2–3 days. Return to sedentary work typically occurs within 5–7 days. Full structural healing — required before resuming intercourse or high-impact exercise — takes 6 weeks. Optimal tissue maturation and final functional results are generally apparent at 3 months post-surgery.
Pricing & Insurance Considerations
APSU is a private-pay, out-of-network practice with no membership fee. Cosmetic vaginoplasty is not covered by insurance. When surgery includes a medically indicated prolapse repair, the reconstructive component may qualify for out-of-network reimbursement. APSU provides a superbill for eligible medical procedures and a surgical quote, including anesthesia, before scheduling. Read the insurance and cost guide for details.
Schedule a Surgical Evaluation
A private consultation with Dr. Stepp includes an examination, structural assessment, and discussion of the repairs that may be appropriate for your anatomy and goals.
Schedule a Consultation
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Patient Questions
What is vaginoplasty and who is a candidate?
Vaginoplasty is a surgical procedure to reconstruct the vaginal canal and surrounding pelvic floor musculature — not a surface-level cosmetic tuck. Ideal candidates include women who experience vaginal laxity, pelvic floor weakness, or functional changes following childbirth or hormonal shifts.
Where is vaginoplasty performed in Charlotte, NC, and how do I schedule?
Vaginoplasty consultations and surgery are performed by Dr. Kevin Stepp, MD, FACOG, URPS at Advanced Pelvic Surgery and Urogynecology of Charlotte, located at 11210 Golf Links Dr North, #100, Charlotte, NC 28277. To schedule a private consultation, call (980) 771-0726.
What does vaginoplasty typically involve — what structures are repaired?
Most patients require a combination of targeted repairs. Posterior repair reconstructs the posterior vaginal wall, underlying connective tissue, and collagen support — correcting rectocele. The vaginal attachments to the surrounding levator ani muscles are repaired; where additional levator weakness is present, Dr. Stepp may recommend EmpowerRF VTone or pelvic floor physical therapy. Anterior repair elevates and supports the anterior vaginal wall and bladder, correcting cystocele and restoring internal vaginal contour. Perineoplasty reconstructs the perineal body to restore the vaginal opening and closure. Stress urinary incontinence can be addressed simultaneously when clinically indicated. Dr. Stepp tailors each plan to the patient's specific anatomy.
How long is recovery after vaginoplasty?
Most patients manage light daily activities within 2–3 days of surgery, with return to sedentary work within 5–7 days. Sexual activity and high-impact exercise are restricted for 6 weeks to allow structural healing. Tissue maturation and functional results are generally assessed at 3 months after surgery.
What does vaginoplasty cost in Charlotte, and is it covered by insurance?
Cosmetic vaginoplasty is not covered by health insurance. However, when vaginoplasty is performed in conjunction with a medically indicated prolapse repair — such as a rectocele, cystocele, or apical prolapse — the reconstructive component may qualify for partial reimbursement through your health plan. For covered medical procedures, Dr. Stepp provides a superbill to support out-of-network claim submission. Patients pursuing reimbursement should contact their carrier before scheduling to understand their out-of-network benefits. To discuss the specifics of your case, call (980) 771-0726 or visit 11210 Golf Links Dr North, #100, Charlotte, NC 28277.
What training does Dr. Stepp bring to vaginoplasty?
Dr. Kevin Stepp, MD, FACOG, URPS holds dual-fellowship training in both Urogynecology/Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery and Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery — both fellowships completed at Cleveland Clinic. To Dr. Stepp's knowledge, fewer than 10 surgeons in the United States hold this dual-fellowship credential. He has performed more than 3,000 pelvic reconstructive procedures.
