Labiaplasty - Vaginal Surgery

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. Wikipedia describes the 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 hangs, or appears to be too long. Some patients complain of discomfort when wearing tight undergarments.

What problems does Labiaplasty address?

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

How is the Labiaplasty procedure performed?

This procedure should be performed by a Plastic Surgeon at a surgery center. There are two basic surgical techniques used in Labiaplasty surgery, the trim method and the wedge method.

What is Labiaplasty Post-Op recovery like?

After Labiaplasty surgery there will be some discomfort and swelling. You can expect 80% of the swelling to subside by the end of the first week. The remaining swelling should be gone by 6 weeks.

Post-Operative recovery instructions

First week: Off of work
First week: Daily salt soaks
First 3 weeks: No sexual intercourse
At 4 weeks: Return to normal activities

Will everything look and feel normal after my procedure?

Yes. The scars are very fine and hidden within natural skin creases. It is very difficult to spot them even up close. Sensation is often improved since there are no flaps of extra skin in the way.

What are the risks and possible complications?

As with any surgery, there are risks and possible complications associated with Labiaplasty. The most common complications include:

Infection
Bleeding
Change in sensation
Ongoing pain