At Animal Works, we’re committed to your pet’s comfort, health, and long-term well-being. One of the procedures we offer is vulvoplasty surgery, a corrective surgery often recommended for dogs suffering from excessive skin folds around the vulva, a condition known as recessed vulva or vulvar fold dermatitis.
What Is Vulvoplasty?
Vulvoplasty, also called episioplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin folds surrounding the vulva to expose the area properly and improve airflow. The goal is to reduce chronic infections, irritation, and discomfort that can result from this anatomical issue.
Why Is Vulvoplasty Needed?
Some female dogs—especially those that are overweight, develop a recessed vulva, where the vulva is partially hidden within folds of skin. This can trap moisture and bacteria, leading to:
- Chronic urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Vulvar irritation and redness
- Strong odor and discharge
- Pain when urinating or sitting
- Constant licking of the area
- Skin infections (dermatitis) around the vulva
If left untreated, these problems can become ongoing and difficult to manage with medications alone.
When to Consider Surgery
We may recommend vulvoplasty if:
- Your dog has repeated UTIs or persistent discomfort
- Medical management like antibiotics or topical creams have failed
- The skin around the vulva is inflamed, red, or has a persistent odor
- There is evidence of structural abnormality during a physical exam
What to Expect from the Procedure
Vulvoplasty is generally considered a safe and routine procedure. The excess skin is surgically removed, allowing the vulva to be exposed naturally. Recovery is typically straightforward, and most dogs go home the same day with a short course of pain relief, antibiotics and an e-collar to prevent licking.
The Benefits
Many pet owners notice a dramatic improvement in their dog’s comfort and quality of life after vulvoplasty. Benefits include:
- Fewer or no UTIs
- Reduced licking or discomfort
- Clearer, healthier skin around the vulva
- Improved hygiene and odor control
We’re Here to Help
If your dog is experiencing symptoms that may be related to a recessed vulva, we encourage you to speak with your regular veterinarian. At Animal Works, we perform vulvoplasty surgery on a referral basis and work with your primary care veterinarian to ensure the best outcome for your pet. If a referral is appropriate, our experienced surgical team will evaluate your dog and discuss whether vulvoplasty is the right option.