Pelvic Organ Prolapse Surgery

Cystocele and Rectocele Repair

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when weakened supporting tissues allow pelvic organs to bulge into the vagina. A cystocele involves the bladder bulging into the front vaginal wall; a rectocele involves the rectum bulging into the back vaginal wall. Repair surgery reinforces these weakened supports to help reduce the vaginal bulge and related discomfort.

Surgical Solutions Network offers private cystocele and rectocele repair at Still Creek Surgical Centre in Burnaby, British Columbia, in the Metro Vancouver area. During your consultation, your surgeon will assess your prolapse, discuss your symptoms, and explain whether one or both repairs may be appropriate.

Why Choose Surgical Solutions Network

Vaginal pressure, a noticeable bulge, and changes in bladder or bowel function can affect everyday comfort. Our team provides patient-centred care, with clear explanations of your condition, treatment options, and recovery plan.

At Surgical Solutions Network, you can access care in a modern surgical facility with dedicated pre-operative and recovery areas. Our team helps you prepare for your procedure and understand your follow-up care, with treatment provided here in Canada.

Who We Help

We welcome patients from across Canada. Our intake team will confirm your eligibility and explain which medical records, previous assessments, and test results are needed for your consultation. Patients travelling for surgery will receive guidance on planning their procedure and recovery.

Common Concerns Assessed

Your surgeon may assess you for prolapse repair if you have:

• A bulge or fullness in or around the vaginal opening
• Vaginal pressure, heaviness, or a dragging sensation
• Difficulty emptying the bladder or changes in urinary flow
• Difficulty emptying the bowel or needing to support the vaginal wall to pass stool
• Symptoms that interfere with walking, exercise, intimacy, or daily activities

When Is Pelvic Organ Prolapse Surgery Recommended?

Surgery may be considered when prolapse causes bothersome symptoms and non-surgical options have not provided sufficient relief or are not suitable.

Your surgeon will consider your examination findings, general health, previous pelvic surgery, and personal goals. If you are planning a future pregnancy, discuss this before proceeding, as pregnancy and childbirth can increase the chance of prolapse returning.

Types of Prolapse Repair

Cystocele Repair

Cystocele repair, also called anterior vaginal repair or anterior colporrhaphy, strengthens the tissue between the bladder and vagina. Through an incision in the front vaginal wall, the surgeon repairs the weakened support layer with stitches and closes the vaginal lining.

Rectocele Repair

Rectocele repair, also called posterior vaginal repair or posterior colporrhaphy, strengthens the tissue between the rectum and vagina. The surgeon repairs the support layer through an incision in the back vaginal wall. Supporting tissue between the vaginal and anal openings may also be repaired when needed.

These repairs can be performed separately or together. Your surgeon will assess whether other areas also need support and explain any additional procedure being considered.

How Is Prolapse Repair Performed?

Cystocele and rectocele repairs are commonly performed through the vagina using your own tissues and dissolvable stitches. General or spinal anaesthetic may be used. Your surgeon will explain the planned technique, the extent of the repair, and the expected length of stay.

A temporary bladder catheter or vaginal packing may be used after surgery. Your team will check your recovery and ability to pass urine before confirming discharge arrangements.

Potential Benefits of Prolapse Repair

• Reduced vaginal bulging, pressure, or heaviness
• Improved support for the bladder or rectum
• Greater comfort during daily activities
• Possible improvement in bladder or bowel emptying when prolapse contributes to the problem

Recovery After Prolapse Repair

Some soreness, fatigue, and light vaginal bleeding or discharge are common during early recovery. Your team will provide instructions on pain relief, hygiene, and keeping bowel movements soft to avoid straining. Gentle walking and a gradual return to activity are usually encouraged.

Many patients need several weeks away from work; the timing depends on the repair and physical demands of the job. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise until cleared by your surgeon. Vaginal intercourse is usually paused for around six weeks, or longer if advised, while tissues heal.

Take the Next Step

If vaginal bulging, pressure, or related bladder or bowel symptoms are affecting your quality of life, our team can help you explore private pelvic organ prolapse surgery. Contact Surgical Solutions Network to request a consultation for private cystocele or rectocele repair.