A labiaplasty is a cosmetic surgery procedure that reduces the size of the vulva by removing tissue from the labia majora and labia minora.
Women may want to have a labiaplasty because of childbirth, pregnancy, aging, or changes in weight. These factors can cause loose or excessive labial skin that they see as unattractive, and it also can cause discomfort in snug clothing or bathing suits.
The labiaplasty procedure usually involves reducing the inner lips of the labia minora to make sure tissue doesn’t protrude outside the labia majora or outer lips. But your surgeon may reduce the labia majora, too.
If you are considering a labiaplasty for better appearance and function of your intimate areas, below is important information to know.
Why Labiaplasty?
Labia shape and color are as unique as the color of our eyes, and there’s a large range of what a ‘normal’ labia is. But if a woman’s labia is ‘too long,’ the extra tissue can interfere with function or cause irritation and discomfort.
For example, a runner whose labia is longer than she wants could find the tissue sticks on the leg during workouts. The tissue also can protrude and get irritated on a bicycle or motorcycle seat.
According to Houston Plastic Surgeon Dr. Ashley Steinberg, “Some women who see their inner labia as too long might feel self-conscious in the bedroom, leading to psychological stress during intercourse.”
Also, long labial lips may be visible when a woman wears a swimsuit, thong, or yoga pants.
Labiaplasty Procedures
There used to be only one labiaplasty procedure, but today, there are several surgeries to consider. Your plastic surgeon will review the options with you:
Trim Procedure
The trim procedure is the original surgery and is still often performed. In this operation, the extra portion of the labia minora is taken out. Next, sutures are placed, so all of the labia minora are inside the labia majora.
Wedge Procedure
In this more recent procedure, a wedge of the labia minora is removed. The submuscosa is left intact; the surgeon only removes a few layers of it.
The advantage of the wedge method is the vagina looks more natural after surgery by preserving the wrinkly edges.
Anesthesia For Labiaplasty
Most labiaplasties are outpatient procedures and usually can be done in less than an hour.
Some surgeons operate with general anesthesia, but others may opt for only local. Discuss with your surgeon if you have a preference.
Labiaplasty Benefits
Now that you understand more about the procedure, let’s dive into some specific benefits:
More Self-Confidence
Some women who have oversized labia have reduced self-esteem and self-confidence. In addition, it can be embarrassing or uncomfortable to wear a swimsuit, tight clothes, or be intimate with a spouse or partner.
Having this procedure can make you more self-confident and pleased with your appearance, which can benefit your personal and professional life.
Clothing Is More Comfortable
Having an oversized labia can make it challenging to comfortably wear a cute bikini, tight jeans, or yoga pants.
Whether you’re worried about its visibility or it’s simply uncomfortable, labiaplasty eliminates these concerns.
You’ll feel more at ease mentally and physically, no matter your clothing choice.
Less Discomfort
The inner labia are delicate, and if it extends too far, it can get irritated from intercourse and snug clothing. Also, exercise, such as riding a bike or running, can twist and tear the tissue and make you constantly sore down there.
Labiaplasty eliminates the extra tissue so you can fully enjoy your life.
More Hygienic
Extra tissue also may contain bacteria and lead to irritation and infection. As a result, some women need to go to the doctor more and take courses of antibiotics to get rid of recurring infections.
Labiaplasty can reduce the chance of urinary tract infections and other health problems.
Pre-Op Preparation
Before your labiaplasty, it helps to follow these tips for the best results:
- Purchase a small spray bottle and fill it with water. You may want to spray your intimate area when urinating after surgery as it may sting a bit.
- You’ll need to take at least three or four days off work and any exercise routine. If you can’t, you should delay your surgery.
- It helps to shave the area before having labiaplasty.
- Don’t have sex; if you cannot go without sex for at least three or four weeks, you aren’t a good candidate for the procedure.
Labiaplasty Recovery
The intimate area of women is sensitive and needs proper care for proper health and function. So, if you have a labiaplasty, it’s essential to follow your surgeon’s post-op instructions:
- Don’t take long showers, and don’t take baths for the first few weeks. Pat the area lightly with a dry towel after every shower.
- The antibiotics your surgeon gave you should be taken correctly to reduce inflammation and pain.
- You shouldn’t run, ride a bike, or engage in other intense physical exercises until cleared by your doctor.
- Going back to intense exercise too soon can put pressure on the incisions and may delay healing.
- Don’t wear tight underwear or clothing for the first month because they may cause friction.
- You should not have sexual intercourse for at least one month
Labiaplasty has many cosmetic and functional benefits. Many women have this surgery to reduce the extra labial skin that can cause irritation and pain when twisted and turned.
Others long for a younger look after having children or aging.
Whatever your reasons, labiaplasty can make a dramatic difference in your life, so talk to your plastic surgeon about the procedure today.
