What is labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is an outpatient surgical procedure that reduces the size and normalizes the shape of your labia minora. The general goal of surgery is to remove the extra tissue hanging below your labia majora. This excess tissue is often due to genetics or sometimes occurs as a result of the stretching experienced during vaginal childbirth.
Depending on your issue, we can also use the surgery to correct asymmetry that occurs when one side is longer than the other. Most often, however, this cosmetic procedure is done on both labia minora.
How common is this procedure?
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons estimates that approximately 12,000 women underwent labiaplasty in 2016. This is a 39% increase over 2015. Experts predict that statistics on women seeking a permanent solution for their condition will continue to rise in 2017 and 2018. Most studies find that over 90% of people who undergo surgery are highly satisfied with the results. This could explain why more and more people are choosing to have the surgery.
What happens during a labiaplasty?
Before scheduling your labiaplasty surgery, we ensure to discuss the procedure, aftercare, and expected outcomes. Generally, however, it’s an outpatient procedure, which typically means no overnight hospital stay. You’ll be under general anesthesia (asleep) during the surgery, which usually takes about an hour.
We monitor you carefully for several hours after the surgery and then release you to go home and finish recovering. You will need someone to drive you home and provide supportive care for a time after the procedure, probably overnight.
How long does it take to recover after labiaplasty?
We suggest taking a week off work to allow for proper healing of the surgical sites. You’ll receive instructions about incision care and ways to ease any swelling or discomfort during this time. We usually ask that you refrain from tampon use and sexual intercourse for about 4-6 weeks after surgery.
Feeling unhappy or insecure about your labia minora? We’re here to help at the GYN Center. Improve your self-esteem and address any concerns with us. Our friendly environment will make you feel safe and at ease. You can also count on our surgical skill and expertise with labiaplasty to help you make an informed decision.
