Labiaplasty is a cosmetic plastic surgery procedure that involves altering the labia. This procedure typically involves the removal of excess tissue from a woman’s labia. It can be performed for either cosmetic reasons or to help alleviate discomfort caused by elongated or enlarged labia.
What Does Labiaplasty Involve?
The procedure can be conducted by putting the patient under general anesthesia or, in minor surgeries, local anesthesia along with a sedative. During labiaplasty, the plastic surgeon shortens or reshapes the patient’s vaginal lips as desired by the patient. If there is excessive tissue, it is removed using a scalpel or laser. The edges are sutured using thin dissolvable stitches.
Normally, the procedure takes less than two hours to perform. Patients can return home the same day in most cases.
The Recovery Process
The recovery time for labiaplasty is usually quite short. The patient may have to take some time off work and other strenuous activity in order to rest and heal. The patient will have to make sure the area is kept clean and free from any kind of infections.
Patients must wear loose underwear and clothing to prevent irritation from rubbing. They are advised to use sanitary napkins instead of tampons, at least for a few weeks. It will be important to abstain from sex during recovery in order to avoid any post-surgical complications.
Typically, after a patient has undergone labiaplasty, they feel some soreness, swelling, and bruising for a short period of time. It can also be uncomfortable for them to sit for long durations or while using the toilet. Painkillers can help alleviate the discomfort.
Speak to your plastic surgeon for more details on what recovery steps you should follow in case you decide to undergo this procedure.
Am I a Good Candidate for Labiaplasty?
This procedure is ideal for those who are unhappy with the dimensions of their labia. Women who have contracted an active gynecological disease or a sexually transmitted infection are advised against undergoing this surgery.
Labiaplasty cannot be performed on girls who are younger than 18 years old, since their labia may still be developing even after puberty as they enter early adulthood.
Women who smoke regularly and are unwilling to quit may face some issues while healing and during recovery, so they may not unsuitable for labiaplasty surgery.
Some women have unrealistic aesthetic intentions when it comes to cosmetic procedures. Doctors are entitled to counsel them and explain why they should reconsider their decision.
The procedure should not be performed on women while they are menstruating. This helps decrease the risk of infections and potential hormonal imbalances.
Like all cosmetic procedures, patients are advised to meet with their plastic surgeon and discuss labiaplasty, its results, potential side effects, and the recovery process. They should undergo the procedure only after they are aware of all details and truly require the surgery.
Learn More at a Labiaplasty Consultation
Dr. Morwood has over 20 years’ experience as a plastic surgeon, he is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, he is a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and for years he has served as either the chief or vice chief of the Division of Plastic Surgery of Monterey.
For more information about Dr. Morwood or if you would like to schedule a consultation, please contact us here.