There are several types of procedures aimed at improving the cosmetic and functional aspects of a woman’s vagina. Many patients needing a tummy tuck procedure complain of sagging of the pubic area, which has cosmetic and functional effects. A part of the tummy tuck procedure involves lifting of the pubic area, resulting in an improved cosmetic appearance, and lifting of the clitoral area to a more sensitive position.
What Is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is the reduction and/or reshaping of the inner labia — otherwise known as labia minora — so that it does not hang out of the labia majora (outer folds of skin on vaginal opening). The labia majora may also be enhanced for a neater, more youthful appearance. The result is a smaller, more natural labia appearance.
While this condition is benign, it may cause discomfort and irritation when exercising, wearing tight-fitting clothing, or during sexual activities. This corrective surgery is performed for both functional and cosmetic/aesthetic reasons.
Who Is the Ideal Labiaplasty Candidate?
Patients with elongated inner labia or asymmetry issues due to childbirth, genetics, or aging are good candidates for the procedure. Patients should have enough excess tissue in the labia that needs to be removed.
Individuals are also advised to be in good health and have reasonable surgical expectations.
What Does a Labiaplasty Consist Of?
Labiaplasty is another rejuvenation procedure of the vaginal area. Many women, either genetically or as a result of pregnancies and aging, have abnormally long internal labia (labia minora) that may have an unattractive cosmetic appearance. In addition, they can be the cause of hygiene issues, interfere with clitoral stimulation, and cause painful intercourse. Labiaplasty surgery is a highly specialized procedure in which the inner labia are delicately reduced and reshaped. Care is taken to protect the clitoris, the clitoral hood, and the surrounding nerves. The procedure is usually done with mild sedation and a local anesthetic. The recovery is rapid and relatively painless. Scarring is virtually non-existent.
Vaginal liposuction is another technique used to reshape the labia majora and pubic mons areas for an improved cosmetic appearance and to make the clitoris more accessible and sensitive.
Lastly, vaginal tightening is a technique used for women who have developed looseness of the vaginal wall after childbirth or with age. Tightening of the vagina may enhance the sexual pleasure of the woman and her partner. This procedure is generally performed by an OB-Gyn physician.
Frequently Asked Questions About Labiaplasty
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What are the different labiaplasty techniques?
Labiaplasty surgery is commonly performed using two techniques: the trim technique and the wedge technique.
The trim technique uses a vertical incision along the length of the inner labia, in which the extra tissue is removed and sewn up directly. As for the wedge excision method, small v-shaped sections of excess tissue on both sides of the labia are removed, and the skin is stitched back together in a way that preserves the natural wrinkling of the labia.
During your consultation, your surgeon will evaluate the labia and discuss your concerns to determine the option to best meet your individual needs.
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Can labiaplasty be combined with other procedures?
Absolutely. Labiaplasty can be performed as a part of a Mommy Makeover, where breast enhancement, such as breast augmentation or breast lift surgery, is combined with tummy tuck surgery and/or liposuction.
For best results, consider working with an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon you can trust.
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Will labiaplasty affect sensitivity?
There is considerable numbing in the area where the incisions are made, but this should fade during recovery. When performed safely by an experienced, careful, and attentive plastic surgeon, labiaplasty techniques are unlikely to cause loss of sensation.
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What can I expect during labiaplasty recovery?
Following surgery, most patients experience swelling and bruising for around two weeks. Pain medication is prescribed to help manage discomfort. Work can be resumed within two to four days after the surgery with restrictions.
Patients are encouraged to avoid strenuous activities, including sex, for about six weeks. This allows enough time for the labia to heal completely and prevent any injury to the suture line.
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How much does labiaplasty cost?
Labiaplasty cost varies depending on several factors, including the extent of the surgery, any combination procedures, and factors like anesthesia, facility, and surgeon fees. You will be provided an accurate price estimate during your consultation.
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How long will my labiaplasty results last?
The results of your labiaplasty procedure are intended to be lifelong. Additional pregnancies and the natural aging process may impact the quality of your results; however, the results will never be negated entirely.
