Labiaplasty is the reduction and/or reshaping of the labia minora, or the inner lips of the vagina. It is an option for females who have large or uneven labia. Women with oversized labia minora may experience discomfort and irritation from wearing tight clothing, or from being physically active. Sometimes, the labia will become enlarged as a result of childbirth. Some women may opt for this procedure purely for aesthetic concerns. Whatever the reason, this is a perfectly safe and effective surgical treatment.
Since I have been practicing, I have performed a significant amount of these procedures. Here are some of the most common questions I have been asked:
Q. How long does it take?
A. Labiaplasty is a relatively quick procedure that takes about 45 minutes to complete.
Q. Will my scars be visible?
A. Labiaplasty will not leave external scarring, which is why it is beneficial to have a board-certified plastic surgeon perform this procedure. We ensure that any incisions naturally fold into the creasing of the skin.
Q. Will this procedure affect my sensitivity?
A. With some surgical procedures, there is some initial numbing in the area where the incisions are made. This will fade over time.
Q. Will I need to go under anesthesia for this procedure?
A. Labiaplasty can be performed under sedative anesthesia, or it can be done in an exam room under local anesthesia.
Q. What is the recovery like?
A. Women usually require 4 days recovery time post-procedure and it is recommended to avoid any friction on the pubic region from sports or intimacy for 8-10 weeks post-op. Overall, there is minimal discomfort associated with this procedure and the sutures that are used dissolve on their own.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, recent studies indicate that labiaplasty has a high degree of patient satisfaction and success.
You can click here to view some recent before and after labiaplasty photos.
To learn if you are a good candidate for labiaplasty, contact us to schedule a consultation.