Is Labiaplasty Right for You?

Understanding Female Anatomy

Prior to discussing labiaplasty, it is important to have a basic understanding of female anatomy. What is typically referred to as the “vagina” is composed of many different parts. The outer, hair-bearing, vaginal lips are called the labia majora. The labia minora, which is the focus of labiaplasty, are the inner vaginal lips tucked inside the labia majora.

What is Labiaplasty?

Labiaplasty is a procedure to reduce the size of the labia minora. Discomfort associated with elongated labia minora is a primary reason for labiaplasty being the most commonly performed vaginal rejuvenation surgery according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. This procedure can be performed by your board-certified plastic surgeon under local anesthesia or general anesthesia and usually takes less than one hour.

What to expect?

During your initial consult, your surgeon will perform an examination to determine if you are a candidate for a trim labiaplasty or another approach known as a wedge excision labiaplasty. Both techniques result in the reduction of the labia minora, but your specific anatomy will determine which procedure is right for you. After the excess tissue has been removed your surgeon will close the incisions with dissolving sutures.

Labiaplasty Recovery

Most patients find it best to take one week from work to recover from this procedure comfortably at home. Resuming normal activities such as vigorous exercise, using tampons, and intercourse can usually begin 6 weeks after the procedure when most of the swelling has resolved and the incision sites are well healed.

Is Labiaplasty right for you?

Labiaplasty is sometimes viewed as a procedure that imposes a societal norm of perfect vaginal aesthetics, but the reality is that most women seeking labiaplasty have the goal of being more comfortable in tight-fitting clothing and more confident in intimate situations. To find out if you are a candidate for labiaplasty call our office to schedule your consultation.