Posted January 23, 2024 in Labiaplasty
5 Min Read:
Labiaplasty is a surgery that has brought countless women greater physical and emotional comfort. This specialized procedure allows women to feel better about their bodies, become more confident, and reach greater sexual satisfaction.
However, many find the idea of an operation on such a delicate area to be too frightening to consider–and understandably so. Don’t worry, we’re here to assuage your fears and break down what exactly you can expect from the labiaplasty procedure, recovery, and results.
What Is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is an elective cosmetic procedure that reduces the size and protrusion of the labia minora (inner lips). It can also improve the symmetry of uneven labium and remove excess tissue that is discolored or unsightly.
A woman can benefit from labiaplasty if:
- She is insecure about her labia’s appearance
- Her elongated labia cause physical discomfort while walking, running, or other activities
- She feels self-conscious about the appearance of her labia, avoiding sexual contact
- Her labia creates a visible bulge in certain clothing or bathing suits
- Sexual intercourse is painful as the labia becomes pinched or chafed
- Large labia minora make feminine hygiene more difficult, resulting in infections more often
As you can see, there are many ways that large labia can interfere with a healthy, happy life. It can be extremely frustrating and greatly detract from a woman’s quality of life. So how does labiaplasty benefit you?
- Improved self-confidence
- Greater freedom in clothing choices
- Improved health and hygiene
- Improved sexual confidence and satisfaction
The benefits are huge! But we understand that labiaplasty can be intimidating, so here’s what you can expect from the actual process.
What Is the Labiaplasty Procedure Like?
Each woman is different, but there are generally two methods of labiaplasty surgical technique, and they depend on your specific goals for the procedure.
The Trim Method
This is the tried and true method of reducing the size of the labia minora: Your experienced labiaplasty surgeon will essentially trim or reduce the protrusion of the outer portion of the labial edge.
This option is great for women who have dark labial edges and desire a more youthful, lighter-toned labia. By reducing the outer edges, the new contour of the labia will be smaller and have a more pink tone.
Wedge Method
The wedge method is ideal if you desire to maintain the natural color and contour of your labia. Your surgeon will remove a small V-shaped wedge of tissue from the portion of the labia with the largest protrusion on each side. Then the remaining tissue is pulled together and stitched closed.
Fat Transfer
While this method does not deal with the labia minora specifically, it can be a great option for women who desire to restore youthful volume. As we age, we can lose volume to all parts of our bodies–even vaginas! Fat transfer can be used to restore lost volume to aging or sagging labia majora, the outer lips. This procedure can be performed alone or in combination with other vaginal rejuvenation procedures, such as above.
Is the Labiaplasty Procedure Painful?
No. No matter the method you choose, your labiaplasty will be performed on an outpatient basis under some form of anesthesia, either local or general. You will not feel any pain during the procedure itself, so rest assured.
What Is Labiaplasty Recovery Like?
The golden question. To most patients’ surprise, labiaplasty recovery is quite manageable compared to most cosmetic procedures.
Immediately following your labiaplasty, you can expect some swelling and numbness. This can last up to about two weeks. Additionally, you should treat this recovery period like others: avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities, and protect your surgical site.
Pain and discomfort can be managed with oral pain medication, and you should avoid swimming or submerging in water for the first six weeks. Sexual contact should also be avoided for at least six weeks or until you are cleared by your surgeon.
Most patients are able to return to work after about one week following labiaplasty.
Will I Have Scars After Labiaplasty?
This will depend on the method used. The trim method may result in some visible scarring along the edge of the labia, but the wedge technique results in very little.
As with most surgical scars, they can fade over time.
What Results Can I Expect After Labiaplasty?
Following your labiaplasty, you can enjoy a smaller, more manageable labia minora. Depending on your goals for the procedure, you may have lighter edges, or your edges will retain their natural color and shape.
Labiaplasty patients overwhelmingly report an increase in self-confidence, greater physical comfort, and greater freedom to participate in more physical activities and wear tighter clothing without embarrassment.
Want to Learn More About Labiaplasty in Beverly Hills, CA?
Are you ready to take the next step toward a more comfortable, freeing life? Dr. Robert Rey is an experienced, talented plastic surgeon serving the greater Beverly Hills area. He understands the transformative benefits of plastic surgery, and has a dedication to providing the safest, most reliable methods for each of his patients.
Call us today at (310) 205-3107 or fill out our online contact form to learn more. We look forward to hearing from you and answering any questions you may have about labiaplasty.