Incontinence Treatment

Loss of bladder control can be a frustrating and isolating experience, especially when it affects daily comfort and confidence. Conditions such as urinary incontinence and overactive bladder are common among women, yet they can deeply impact quality of life. Effective solutions are available at Pacific Plastic Surgery Group. Dr. Darren Lazare, board-certified urogynecologist, offers specialized treatments for urinary incontinence, tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

What Does Incontinence Surgery Treat?

Incontinence procedures are designed to support proper bladder function by reinforcing or repositioning the structures that help control urination. These surgeries aim to keep the urethra properly closed when pressure builds in the abdomen when coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising. Stress urinary incontinence, the most common type, occurs when physical movement or strain leads to involuntary leakage. With advanced surgical options, Dr. Lazare helps patients regain physical comfort.

Dr. Darren Lazare | MD, FRCSC

Restorative Gynecology Surgeon

A board-certified gynecologist, Dr. Darren Lazare, is an experienced surgeon and committed advocate for women’s health. His practice in Vancouver and Surrey, BC focuses on female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery which encompasses non-surgical and surgical management of urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, voiding dysfunction, post-partum perineal injury and cosmetic gynecology. He has been performing labiaplasty, vaginoplasty and other vaginal reconstruction procedures for more than ten years, helping women regain confidence and achieve their desired aesthetic.

Dr. Lazare is rated as the #1 gynecologist in Surrey, British Columbia according to RateMDs.

Dr. Darren Lazare received his residency training in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the University of British Columbia. He successfully completed his subspecialty fellowship training in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery at the University of Alberta. Dr. Lazare has been appointed as a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of British Columbia where he is the residency supervisor for the urogynecology program. He is a Surgeon Champion for the American College of Surgeon’s National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP). He is a committed advocate for women’s health, medical education and quality improvement initiatives while maintaining a full clinical, reconstructive and cosmetic practice.

Dr. Lazare’s professional memberships include the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons, the Canadian Society of Pelvic Medicine, the International Urogynecology Association, the International Continence Society and the American Urogynecology Society.

Types of Incontinence Surgery

Urethral Bulking

Urethral bulking is a minimally invasive procedure that helps reduce leakage caused by stress or urge incontinence. During treatment, a safe, gel-based bulking agent, often made of collagen, is injected into the urethral wall. This creates gentle compression that narrows the opening, allowing the urethra to stay closed more effectively.

Retropubic Sling (TVT)

A retropubic sling, also known as a tension-free vaginal tape (TVT), acts as a supportive hammock beneath the urethra. The sling is placed through small incisions in the lower abdomen and vaginal wall to help maintain closure during physical activity or strain. The material remains in place naturally without stitches and provides long-term support for those with moderate to severe urinary leakage.

Autologous Fascia Sling

For patients who prefer a natural approach, Dr. Lazare offers an autologous fascia sling procedure that uses the patient’s own connective tissue rather than synthetic material. A small section of fascia, typically taken from the thigh or abdomen, is positioned beneath the urethra to restore proper support. This technique is ideal for patients with recurrent or complex incontinence.

Recovery After Incontinence Surgery

Recovery depends on the type of procedure performed. Patients who undergo urethral bulking typically resume light activities within 24 hours, although they should avoid heavy lifting or intense exercise for about two weeks. Those recovering from sling procedures can expect two weeks of initial downtime before returning to work. Full recovery, including a gradual return to exercise, lifting, and sexual activity, generally occurs within four to six weeks. It may take up to three months for the pelvic muscles to fully heal and strengthen after surgery.

Incontinence Frequently Asked Questions

Who Is a Candidate?

Candidates for incontinence surgery are individuals who experience urine leakage during physical movement or strain. The right approach depends on your anatomy, lifestyle, and preferences for recovery time and invasiveness. Patients in good general health who have realistic expectations and wish to reduce urinary leakage and improve bladder control are typically excellent candidates.

Schedule a Consultation

Schedule your private consultation today at Pacific Plastic Surgery Group in Vancouver, BC, by completing the online contact form.

Based in Vancouver, BC, we are conveniently located within 30 30-minute drive of Vancouver International Airport, making Pacific Plastic Surgery Group an ideal location to support out-of-province Patients.