Can Labiaplasty Surgery Alter Sensitivity and Nerve Function?
There are a lot of different procedures that can help change the way the body looks and feels. One such procedure, a cosmetic gynecology procedure that changes the look of the labia, is labiaplasty. Labiaplasty is a procedure that alters the shape or the length of the labia minora or the labia majora. The procedure has gained popularity lately because more people are becoming aware of it and desiring to look appealing. The majority of women opt to undergo the procedure to enhance appearance, but some opt to have the procedure done to alleviate pain from excessive lengthening or asymmetry of the labia. The surgery can change how women feel sensations during sexual intercourse, as well as through everyday occurrences such as friction.
Understanding Labiaplasty
Labiaplasty usually consists of trimming or resizing the labia minora (the interior lips) or resizing the labia majora (the exterior lips), less often. The surgery can be accomplished through two techniques: the trim technique, which trims away excess tissue from the edges, or the wedge technique, which removes a wedge-shaped segment but preserves the natural form of the labia. The two techniques enhance appearance and sensation and correct issues.
Nerve Distribution within the Labia
The labia minora contains numerous nerve endings that are responsible for sexual sensation. Nerves are vital to ensure that there is satisfaction during sex. Labia surgery can create concern regarding sensitivity alteration because the nerve tracts can be disrupted during the procedure.
How Labiaplasty Can Influence Sensitivity
There are a variety of ways that you will notice changes in sensitivity following a labiaplasty procedure. Some of these are temporary and will subside with healing, while others may be permanent – these are typically the changes in sensation during sexual intercourse or the reduction of pain, chafing, and friction-related concerns.
Short-term Numbness
Many patients are numb for a brief period following the surgery due to swelling, bruising, and minor nerve injury. The numbness resolves within a couple of months to a few weeks as the nerve improves and the body heals.
Long-lasting Sensory Changes
Sometimes, women report that they are able to feel lasting or permanent changes in sensation. This can occur if the nerve endings are severely damaged or if scar tissue develops that prevents the nerves from healing. However, experienced surgeons use precise techniques to avoid damaging the nerves and preserve as much sensation as possible.
Increase in Sensitivity
Some women report that they are more sensitive following the procedure. This may be because the surplus tissue that was causing discomfort during sex or physical activity has been removed. Once the excess labial tissue has been removed, some patients report that sex improves because there is less rubbing or friction.
Things That Influence Nerve Function and Sensitivity After Surgery
Surgeon Experience and Technique
Picking a skilled and experienced gynecologic or plastic surgeon will ensure that nerve function will be safe. Labiaplasty surgeons are aware of the intricate anatomy of the labia and take care to avoid unnecessary nerve damage.
Healing Process and Differences in People
Every patient will recover differently, and age, skin elasticity, and overall health will determine how the nerve heals. Good recovery and nerve healing are very important to take care of the site afterward by not rubbing it excessively or injuring it.
How Much Tissue is Removed
Removing more tissue makes nerve damage more likely. Using careful techniques that preserve as much natural tissue as possible is less likely to create large sensitivity changes.
Reducing Risks During Labiaplasty
To reduce the possibility of sensitivity or nerve function alteration, patients need to be instructed to:
Choose a Qualified Surgeon
Research the surgeon’s qualifications, read reviews, and view photos of former patients to ensure that they have a solid track record of performing labiaplasty.
After Surgery
After surgery, it is important to take care of your surgical site. Care for your wound, avoid sex during the next six weeks, and avoid doing heavy exercise. This will avoid complications and enable healing. Make sure to keep your follow-up appointments, as follow-up visits allow the surgeon to observe how you are healing and correct issues early.
If you are interested in learning more about the labiaplasty procedure, or to find out if you are a candidate, call the office of Dr. Ghozland today at 310-393-9359 and we will be happy to get you scheduled for a consultation!