A fractional CO2 laser
The MonaLisa Touch delivers gentle, controlled laser energy to the vaginal wall. The aim is to prompt the tissue to renew itself, producing new collagen and restoring moisture and elasticity.
Services
The MonaLisa Touch
A hormone-free, in-office laser treatment for the vaginal dryness, irritation and painful intercourse that often follow menopause. Dr. Balat was among the first physicians in Houston to offer it.
The problem it treats
As estrogen falls, the tissue of the vagina and vulva becomes thinner, drier and less elastic. Clinicians call this genitourinary syndrome of menopause, or vaginal atrophy. It can cause dryness, itching, burning, pain with intercourse, and urinary urgency or repeated bladder infections.
Unlike hot flashes, these symptoms usually do not fade with time. Without treatment they tend to progress.
How it works
A short office visit
Each treatment takes only a few minutes and does not usually require anesthesia. Most women describe mild discomfort at most and return to normal activity the same day.
A series, then maintenance
Treatment is usually given as a series of sessions several weeks apart. Many women then return about once a year to maintain results, which vary from person to person.
What to know before you decide
Vaginal laser treatment has been studied for more than a decade. Many studies report meaningful improvement in dryness and comfort, but a good number are small or lack a comparison group, and the long-term evidence is still developing. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has cautioned the public about energy-based devices marketed for vaginal rejuvenation, so it matters that treatment is chosen for a clear medical reason and carried out by an experienced gynecologist.
That is why a MonaLisa Touch visit starts with an exam and a conversation about all your options, including low-dose vaginal estrogen, non-hormonal moisturizers and the O-Shot. For some women the laser is the best fit. For others, a different approach or a combination works better.
Talk with Dr. Balat about the MonaLisa Touch
Book a visit at the Binz Street office, or start with an online consultation if you would rather talk first.