Labiaplasty Procedure

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  3. Labiaplasty

Labiaplasty is plastic surgery of the labia majora and/or the labia minora, which are the external folds of skin surrounding the structures of the vulva. The procedure involves surgically reducing excess tissue of the labia. When combined with vaginoplasty, this procedure may also be called "vaginal rejuvenation."

In some women, the labia can become enlarged and elongated, causing discomfort when wearing certain clothing, occasional hygiene issues, as well as being aesthetically displeasing. Labiaplasty surgery permanently corrects this problem, and is considered by plastic surgeons to be a fairly simple procedure that can usually be done under a local anesthesia on an outpatient basis.

Occasionally the labia majora, or outer lips of the vagina may be enlarged, usually due to excess fat, and this can be corrected as well.

Labiaplasty risks: Doctors cite potential risk bleeding or infection. It is important to avoid aspirin and other anti inflammatories for 10 days prior to surgery. Antibiotics and good hygiene will diminish one's risk for infection. Pain or discomfort is present, although not significant with a wedge technique. Wound separation is possible. Labiaplasty recovery requires avoiding intercourse for 6-8 weeks post-operatively.

List of Questions and Answers

What is Labiaplasty?
A Labiaplasty, commonly referred to as Labia reduction, is an aesthetic surgery for the female genitalia, which involves reduction of the labia. T he average length of the labia minor (inner labia) of females between the ages of 18-50 to be 61 mm. However, longer lengths were recorded up to 100 mm. Patients request the surgery because their labia either hang, or appear to be too long. Some patients complain of discomfort when wearing tight undergarments.
Most patients have the labiaplasty to reduce the length of the labia because they either experience discomfort or pain or are simply unsatisfied with the way their labia looks. Some women have always been this way (congenital), whereas others develop the problem after childbirth or as they age. Those with full fatty mons (vaginal lips) can safely undergo liposuction of that area. Candidates usually have these signs or symptoms
  • Long, or 'hanging' vaginal lips
  • Labial discomfort, pain, or irritation, particularly during certain activities or while wearing certain clothes
  • Embarrassment during intimacy
During your consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon it's important to listen to all of the pre-op instructions your surgeon gives and discuss all of the surgery and outcome concerns you have.
  • Quit smoking 2 weeks prior to surgery
  • Stop taking multivitamins, herbals, and aspirin prior to surgery
  • Have an Physical examination (H&P) and CBC (anemia detection) to clear you for surgery

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