What is a Labiaplasty?

What is Labiaplasty?

A labiaplasty (also called labia reduction) is a procedure in which the labia minora, (the inner fold of skin around the vagina and clitoris), and/or the labia majora, (the outer rounded folds), is reduced in size or made more symmetrical. This is not to be confused with a vaginoplasty or vaginal rejuvenation, which is a procedure in which the vagina is tightened or rejuvenated.

Reasons for Obtaining a Labiaplasty

There are many reasons for obtaining a labiaplasty. Some women with large labias may experience pain or chafing during sexual relations or when they play sports or are physically active. Large labias may be noticeable when women wear form-fitting clothing or even hang out from panties or a bathing suit. In addition, some women have a labiaplasty simply because they wish to improve the appearance of their labia.

Who is a Good Candidate?

Any woman who would like to have their labia reshaped or reduced in size may be a good candidate for labia surgery. Because each situation is different, you should schedule a no cost consultation with us to discuss your options. Our physicians are skilled in performing labiaplasty surgery and we will be happy to meet with you to discuss your needs.

The Consultation

During the consultation, you can discuss your expectations with our physicians who will determine the best way to achieve the results you desire. Our clinic has labiaplasty before and after photos as well as other materials that can explain the procedure and what you can expect during and after the procedure.

Cost

The cost of this surgical procedure can vary by region or by the physician. Ask the physician about the cost during the consultation. However, the main consideration should be your physician’s skill and experience with labiaplasty.

The Procedure

A labiaplasty is a short, outpatient surgery that lasts 60 to 90 minutes. Our physicians will use local anesthesia so you will be awake during the procedure, but you will not experience pain or discomfort. Some physicians use lasers and others use cutting tools to reduce the size of the labia. We perform labiaplasty’s using the Ellman Surgitron as our preferred method ensuring the most precise incisions to get the most desired natural cosmetic appearance.  This method is much less destructive to cutting tools, and traditional lasers.

Recovery

Patients can return home after the procedure is finished. Your surgeon will recheck the incisions the following week to make sure that you are healing well. You will also come in for a one-month post-op visit.

You may experience some minor to moderate discomfort for one to two weeks after the procedure, but you may be able to return to work after a period of a day or so. During recovery, you will be instructed not to use tampons or to wear thong underwear or tight clothing that may chafe against the incisions. Additionally, you will be instructed to avoid strenuous activities or intercourse for a period of six to eight weeks.

Labia surgery are minor cosmetic procedures. Scarring is very rare and the labia typically heal without physical signs of the surgery. You may be permitted to return to normal activities and intercourse after six weeks, but full healing may take up to three months. Your doctor will explain the recovery process during the consultation, as well as give you detailed instructions about the recovery process.

Risks

Like any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with a labiaplasty. Scarring or an asymmetrical labia as a result of labia surgery is extremely rare, but these results are possible in some cases. As part of your follow-up,  will do any touch-ups if needed at no cost. In addition, infections are possible. Bleeding may occur after the surgery. If you experience any of these side effects, call our office and ask the nurse or physician how to proceed. Depending on the nature of the problem we will advise you every step if the way.

Some people have claimed that a labiaplasty can interfere with childbirth later on due to an accumulation of scar tissue. However, this is not true. Labiaplasty surgery does not interfere with the vagina or any other area directly associated with childbirth. Many women go on to have normal pregnancies and births after having a labiaplasty.

Deciding Whether to Have a labia reduction surgery
Labia reduction is typically painless and simple and can offer real benefits for a woman who is uncomfortable with the size of her labia. It is important to find a Dr with whom you are comfortable before you commit to labia surgery. Schedule a consultation with our office and ask our surgeons all the detailed questions you may have.

Our physicians and office staff will be happy to answer any questions and work with you to get your desired results. We know how important it is for you to look good and feel comfortable with your body. Let us help you feel good about your body.

For more information or to schedule a consultation with a surgeon, please contact us.