Labiaplasty is a vaginal rejuvenation procedure that reduces the prominence of the internal lips of the vagina (labia minora). Labiaplasty can relieve discomfort from excess folds of labia and change the external appearance of the vagina. The labia naturally varies in size, shape, and color, and can be affected by childbirth, aging, and weight change. Some women seek labiaplasty for functional improvement, while some seek labiaplasty for cosmetic improvement.
Did you know…
Labiaplasty is the most common vaginal rejuvenation procedure and has a 90 percent satisfaction rate?
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a candidate for labiaplasty?
You may be a candidate for a labiaplasty if you have excess labia minora (inner vaginal lips) that sticks out from between your labia majora (outer vaginal lips). You also may have functional symptoms such as discomfort when riding a bike or during intercourse, as well as itching, irritation, or self-consciousness.
What can I expect from a labiaplasty?
Most labiaplasty procedures can be done under local anesthesia using a combination of numbing cream and numbing injection. You may take an oral sedative prior to the procedure to assist with discomfort. Once the numbing injections are complete, you should not have any sensation or pain during the procedure. Your surgeon will then remove excess labia minora skin and stitch up the affected area. Depending on your anatomy, your surgeon may remove a pie-shaped cut of tissue and/or extra folds of the clitoral hood. Labiaplasty is always customized to fit your specific anatomic needs. All the sutures used will be absorbable and will not need to be removed following surgery.
Will I need to follow any special post-op instructions after a labiaplasty?
After surgery, you will need someone to drive you home. You will ice the area for 15 minutes at a time every hour until you go to sleep. Most pain from the procedure goes away in about 3-5 days. After about 4-6 weeks, patients can usually return to using tampons or having intercourse. Most of the swelling will dissipate by week six; however, some minor swelling may linger for a longer time period.