What is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the appearance of the labia minora (the inner vaginal lips). As part of vaginal rejuvenation, labiaplasty can correct the size, shape, and symmetry of the labia to improve the aesthetic appearance, as well as reduce or eliminate physical discomfort caused by large labia.
Benefits of Labiaplasty
Women seek labiaplasty surgery primarily because excess skin affects their self-confidence. They avoid wearing tight clothing for fear that their labia will be visible. An enlarged labia may even affect intimacy with a partner if they are self-conscious about their appearance “down there” or if their labia causes physical discomfort during intercourse. Labiaplasty surgery can change all that, restoring confidence inside and outside the bedroom.
If you’re embarrassed about the appearance of your labia, it can have a huge emotional effect on your sex life. Large or noticeably asymmetrical labia may cause you to be self-conscious about your appearance during intimacy. It can also cause physical pain or difficulty during intercourse. By eliminating excess tissue, labiaplasty can enhance your confidence in bed, prevent physical pain, and allow you to experience more sexual pleasure.
If you have excess labial skin, it may be difficult to maintain your vaginal hygiene. The folds of your labia can trap more bacteria, putting you at higher risk for health issues like urinary tract infections. If your labia is subject to constant irritation from clothing or physical activities, it could result in minor injuries that are vulnerable to disease. Labiaplasty surgery helps eliminate these issues before they become more serious.
Wearing swimsuits, tight jeans, or form-fitting workout pants can be a concern if you have large, sagging labia. You may experience discomfort from chafing or pulling or be concerned that your labia is visible in fitted clothing. No matter your reasons, labiaplasty can eliminate these problems and allow you to wear what you like without physical or emotional discomfort.
Am I a Candidate for Labiaplasty?
Candidates for labiaplasty are nonsmokers who are in overall good health. Ideal candidates for labiaplasty are women with naturally large or asymmetrical labia or who have experienced significant changes in their labia due to childbirth or aging. Other criteria for labiaplasty candidates may include:
- Decreased confidence in the appearance of your labia
- Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse, exercise, or other daily activities
- Tears or poor healing from childbirth
- Realistic expectations for your results
Pregnancy can negatively affect the results of your labiaplasty, so it’s best to be finished having children before undergoing the procedure.
How Is Labiaplasty Performed?
Labiaplasty is an outpatient procedure performed using local anesthesia with IV sedation or general anesthesia. Labiaplasty surgery is done using one of the following techniques:
Trim Method
Using this method, also called edge resection, Dr. Patel trims excess labial skin from the outside edge of the labia minora to shorten it. This is the most common method for labiaplasty.
Wedge Method
With wedge resection, a V-shaped wedge of tissue from the inside section of your labia minora is removed. This technique is often used because it creates a more natural appearance by leaving the edges of your labia intact.
The technique Dr. Patel will use to perform your labiaplasty depends on the size and shape of your labia and the desired results.
What Can I Expect From My Labiaplasty Recovery?
Once your labiaplasty surgery is complete, you will need to rest at home and take a couple of days off of work and from your normal activities while you heal. You will experience some swelling and discomfort, but these are typical side effects that will subside independently.
Any discomfort can be alleviated in several ways, including:
- Prescription or over-the-counter pain relievers
- Take a warm salt water or sitz bath
- Use a peri bottle to clean after urinating to avoid wiping the area
- Place an ice pack over your underwear in increments of 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off
Dr. Patel will prescribe antibiotics to help reduce your risk of infection after surgery. You should wear loose clothes to allow the area to breathe and avoid rubbing and friction. You will need to refrain from using tampons and engage in strenuous exercise and activities for four to six weeks. You will also need to abstain from sex during this time to allow your labia to heal properly.
When Will I See My Labiaplasty Results?
You will likely see some immediate results following your labiaplasty. However, you will have significant swelling, which takes about six weeks to resolve. There will be some residual swelling for up to six months after the procedure, after which you can see the complete results of your labiaplasty. Scarring is minimal and usually hidden within the natural folds of the labia.
Labiaplasty surgery is designed to be long-lasting so that you can enjoy your results for years.
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks of complications. The most common include infection, poor wound healing, or bleeding. Complications specific to labiaplasty surgery include:
- Decreased sensitivity
- Chronic vaginal dryness
- Scarring that may cause painful intercourse
- Asymmetry and over-resection
The best way to avoid complications after labiaplasty is to choose a cosmetic surgeon who is trained and experienced in the procedure and ensure you closely follow their aftercare instructions.
Why Should I Choose WOW Cosmetic Surgery for My Labiaplasty?
Dr. Patel understands that undergoing labiaplasty is an extremely personal decision. He will guide you through the process from consultation through recovery with sensitivity and compassion and use his extensive expertise to ensure you receive the desired results.
Labiaplasty FAQ
Labiaplasty often seeks to enhance labial aesthetics and ease discomfort rather than altering sexual sensation or function. Though rare, alterations in sensation or function may arise, especially with excessive tissue removal. It is essential to converse openly with your surgeon about sexual concerns during consultations. Their insights, attuned to your unique anatomy and aspirations, can guide decisions regarding the suitability of labiaplasty for you.
Increasingly common in recent years, labiaplasty’s popularity reflects evolving beauty standards, a heightened awareness of genital aesthetics, and a trend for customizing surgery to address specific issues. While exact prevalence rates vary, studies suggest a notable rise.
Labiaplasty is sometimes combined with other procedures, particularly those aimed at enhancing overall genital aesthetics or function. Among the common pairings lie vaginoplasty, a procedure aimed at tightening the vaginal canal, and clitoral hood reduction, which attends to excess tissue surrounding the clitoris. Moreover, some choose to undergo labiaplasty alongside treatments such as liposuction for sculpting surrounding areas or cosmetic therapies like laser rejuvenation for the vagina. Combining procedures can address multiple concerns simultaneously, providing comprehensive results.
Ready to Learn More About Labiaplasty in Dallas-Fort Worth, TX?
If you’re ready to reclaim your confidence in the appearance of your labia, it’s time to consider labiaplasty at WOW Cosmetic Surgery. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Patel, call our office at 833 DR WOW MD or complete the online contact form.