Background
Dr. Ashford has dedicated his surgical career to the evaluation and treatment of women with vaginal and pelvic disorders or concerns. He is one of the first physicians in the nation to be board certified in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery (Urogynecology) Dr. Ashford is known in the Twin Cities as a skilled pelvic surgeon and has proven experience helping women with the worst pelvic floor disorders. His goal is restoring pelvic organs to their normal, symptomless state both functionally and anatomically.
With over 24 years of experience specializing in the surgical correction of vaginal prolapse and pelvic floor disorders, he has dedicated his career to advancing safe, effective, and patient-centered care. While many urogynecologists rely on abdominal mesh-based procedures, Dr. Ashford has developed and refined a comprehensive, mesh-free vaginal surgical approach to restore pelvic support at every level. This technique prioritizes long-term outcomes, minimizes complications, and respects the integrity of each patient’s anatomy. His commitment to excellence and innovation has made him a trusted leader in the field of urogynecology and a premier destination for women seeking personalized, expert surgical care without the risks associated with mesh.
It's obvious to understand why a surgeon would devote so much time into developing skills to address issues of pelvic organ prolapse and incontinence; it may not be as obvious to some to understand why Dr. Ashford focused equally hard on address the surgical concerns of cosmetic gynecology. Here’s what he says “Over the years, I listened closely as countless women shared deeply personal concerns about changes to their vaginal and labial anatomy—often following childbirth or as a natural part of aging. Many felt dismissed, with few options or specialists who truly understood their needs. As a reconstructive pelvic surgeon, I recognized that I was uniquely positioned to help. Driven by a desire to offer real solutions, I spent over three years training with experts around the world to expand my surgical skill set and deliver advanced cosmetic gynecologic care. Today, I combine the precision of reconstructive surgery with an aesthetic approach to help women restore both function and confidence in their bodies." If your concern is enlarged labia or a bladder protruding through the vagina, Dr. Ashford has the experience and training to restore your womanhood.
Often thought of as taboo or of lesser medical concern by physicians, excessive labial tissue, loosening vagina and other aesthetic gynecology issues are huge concerns for some women. They can interfere with normal daily activities, exercise, make intercourse difficult or less enjoyable, and result in significant social/esteem issues. As one of the few board certified Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgeons in Minnesota with expertise in this area, Dr. Ashford is keenly aware of your concerns. One of his areas of focus has been reconstructive and restorative surgery for the labia and vagina.
After many years of listening to his patients, Dr. Ashford realized that there was a need to address the aesthetic concerns that women have regarding their intimate areas. His training on functional and anatomic repair of vaginal supports as a Female Pelvic Surgeon made him uniquely fit for addressing these needs. However, no specialty prepares surgeons for cosmetic gynecologic surgery. To be clear, a visit to a traditionally trained OBGYN or Plastic Surgeon for a labiaplasty can quickly turn into a nightmare for a woman.
Exceptional Care
Armed with his training in Female Reconstructive Surgery and a keen aesthetic eye; Dr. Ashford sought out the experts in the world on cosmetic gynecology and aesthetic medicine for training. He recognized that in order to be the best, he had to learn from the best. He has traveled the world seeking opportunities to learn from the pioneers in the field of cosmetic gynecology. Over the past decade he has worked with doctors in Italy, Austria, London, Scotland, and the US. His training in Female Pelvic Reconstructive Surgery, OBGYN, and Cosmetic Gynecology combined with a keen aesthetic eye results in raving accolades from his patients.
Dr. Ashford's Credentials and Reputation
Dr. Ashford is board-certified in both OBGYN and Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery (urogynecology). He is a member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery. To join this prestigious organization a physician must be nominated by another cosmetic surgeon who can vouch for their skills and abilities. In has been named as a "Top Doctor" by MPLS/St. Paul Magazine every year since 2014. He consistently receives accolades from his patients for his diagnostic and surgical skills, understanding nature, and professionalism.
In His Words
Dr. Ashford says:
“I wake up every day striving and expecting the best for my patients. I am honored to have their trust and I value it. In return, I respect my patients and am committed to offering my very best effort. There are a large group of women in the Twin Cities whose lives are better because of the treatment they have received. I am thankful for them and the opportunity I have had to make a positive difference in their lives. It is extremely gratifying."