Lichen Sclerosus & Surgery: What Does the Science Say?
Introduction Topical corticosteroids are the gold standard treatment; read about it here and here. While steroids are effective in reducing inflammation, slowing the progression of the condition, getting patients into remission, and reducing the likelihood of developing vulvar cancer, they cannot reverse existing vulvar fusing/scarring. Fusing and scarring, however, can affect the functioning of your vulva. If your fusing and scarring are causing functional issues, you *may* be a candidate for surgery. In this post, I will review the surgery for clitoral fusing and recurrent tearing. Further, I will share important information you should know before booking surgery. *This post is evidence-based. I draw on the medical literature to share what you need to know about surgery and lichen sclerosus. Importantly, what I share is my interpretation of the science and data. Surgery for Clitoral Fusing If you read my post on architectural changes, you are familiar with the term clitoral…