What is labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is the reduction of the labia majora and/or minora. This surgical procedure reduces the elongated labia in order to diminish discomfort in the treated area. It is a surgery that can improve a woman’s body after an injury or childbirth has changed her appearance. In addition, labiaplasty can be performed on patients who wish to alleviate irritation, pain, hygiene issues, self-consciousness, or sexual dysfunction due to an enlarged labia. This procedure is designed to remove the extra skin and reshape it into a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
A good candidate for labiaplasty is also someone who:
- Has realistic expectations
- Experiences impairment in normal activities due to enlarged labia
- Is not planning to become pregnant in the future
What to expect during your initial consultation:
During your pre-operative appointment, one of our licensed Chicago Plastic Surgeons from the Women’s Institute of Cosmetic & Laser Surgery will assess your body in addition to taking a full medical history before determining your eligibility for labiaplasty. The procedure will be explained at this time, and any concerns will be addressed as well. Proper care for healing will also be explained.
Be sure to ask any questions you may have in regards to the procedure itself, risks, side effects, and/or results. A well-informed patient is more likely to achieve a positive outcome.
Some of the risks and uncertainties involved with labiaplasty:
As with all surgical procedures, labiaplasty carries its own set of risks and side effects. Some of these may include:
- Scarring
- Pigmentation changes
- Infection
- An increased/decreased sense of feeling in that area
- Asymmetry of the labia
- In order to avoid any serious complications, patients are strongly urged to follow all instructions provided by their surgeon.
In order to avoid any serious complications, patients are strongly urged to follow all instructions provided by their surgeon.
How is labiaplasty performed
The procedure will begin with the administering of an anesthetic – local or general, depending on your situation – and then excess tissue on the labia minora is removed with a scalpel, laser, or radiofrequency cauterization. To remove or eliminate excess tissue of the labia majora, liposuction may be performed. The entire procedure will take about one to two hours to perform.
After Surgery
Patients will be allowed to go home the same day of the surgery. They may experience swelling and some pain; supportive undergarments may be required to ensure proper healing. Work can be resumed, typically, in two to five days, and strenuous activity can be resumed in two to three weeks. It is important to avoid feminine hygiene products and sexual intercourse for at least three to eight weeks post-surgery.
