Deciding to have plastic surgery is a major decision. Before having a procedure such as a labiaplasty, it’s essential to have as much information as you can.

Below is what you need to know about labiaplasty and critical questions to ask.

What Is Labiaplasty?

Houston labiaplasty is a popular procedure on a woman’s genitalia to reduce the size of the labia minora or majora. The goal is to make one or both of these parts smaller, so it’s easier to exercise and stay clean.

Also, some women are embarrassed by the appearance of their labia because of childbirth, aging, sexual activity, and genetics.

This procedure aims to reduce the size of the labia minora, so it doesn’t hang below the labia majora. Labiaplasty may also be performed to improve asymmetry if one part is longer than the other.

There are several types of labiaplasty, but the procedure generally involves trimming away extra tissue from the labia minora and majora to make them shorter.

No matter your reasons for having labiaplasty, there are critical questions to ask before going under the knife:

Am I a Good Candidate For Labiaplasty?

The first thing to talk to your surgeon about is a good candidate for the labiaplasty procedure. The surgeon will perform a physical examination to see if the labia major or minora are longer than they should be.

Also, the surgeon will talk to you about your diet, lifestyle, and activity level. It’s essential to be active and healthy before having this procedure.

Remember that there is a wide range of what a ‘normal’ labia major and minora look like. Everyone’s body is unique.

Last, you should have realistic expectations for your labiaplasty and want to have it for yourself and not someone else.

Does Labiaplasty Leave Scars?

Yes there will be faint scars. However, the scars are difficult to see and usually blend in with the remaining tissue. Most people find the scars are so hard to see they are practically unnoticeable.

Many surgeons use dissolvable stitches, and you won’t be able to notice anything after six to eight weeks.

How Long Does It Take To Recover?

Most patients can return to work after five to seven days. But this varies depending on how much tissue your surgeon removes and how fast you heal.

You should be able to go back to regular activities after one or two weeks. But you shouldn’t exercise for about a month so you don’t damage the incisions. Taking on too much too soon can cause an infection and discomfort.

It’s also recommended not to wear snug clothing until you are entirely healed. You don’t want to have clothes rubbing against the incisions, which can cause problems.

But after two months or so, you should be fully healed.

How Can I Reduce My Labiaplasty Recovery?

Any intense activities should be delayed for at least a month after surgery. Using cold compresses will reduce swelling and pain during the first week.

Also, you should clean your privates gently after going to the restroom. Some surgeons say you should apply antibiotic ointment to the incisions, too.

Further, take any medications your doctor prescribes. They will reduce pain and swelling and speed up your recovery.

It also helps to drink plenty of water so your body can flush out toxins more easily.

How Long Should I Wait To Have Sex?

It can be frustrating to delay intimacy with your spouse or partner, especially want them to see ‘the new you’! But doctors recommend waiting at least 30 days before having sexual activity that involves touching the labial tissues.

Waiting for intimacy for at least 30 days will ensure the incision are completely healed. If you rush your recovery, the incisions may reopen and cause complications.

What Are Labiaplasty Risks?

If you choose a skilled surgeon, you should have a successful surgery. But all surgeries have risks.

The most frequent complications from labiaplasty are hematoma, infection, and bleeding. Also, some women want a more aggressive reduction in tissue than is recommended.

Over-resection of the labia minor can cause vaginal dryness and scarring, which can lead to painful intercourse and other problems.

Will Insurance Cover Labiaplasty?

It’s rare for health insurance to cover labiaplasty. For the most part, this procedure is considered cosmetic, even if an elongated labia has a major impact on your health or comfort.

What Kind Of Results Can You Expect?

You should be realistic about how long it will take to see results from labiaplasty. It can take two or three months to see the final results, depending on which procedure you have.

Your results also depend on your genetics and how well you recover.

Labiaplasty is a popular and effective treatment to improve the size and appearance of the labia minora and majora. Speak to your surgeon soon to find out if this procedure will work for you.

What About Other Procedures?

Some patients want to have other procedures with labiaplasty, so talk to your surgeon. Some popular options are a breast augmentation and a tummy tuck.

Request a Houston Labiaplasty Consultation

Interested in labiaplasty in Houston? Please set up a consultation with Dr. Ashley Steinberg today. She’ll talk to you about the benefits and risks of labiaplasty.

References

Five Questions To Ask Your Plastic Surgeon About Labiaplasty. (n.d.). Accessed at https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/five-questions-to-ask-at-your-aesthetic-genital-plastic-surgery-consultation

Best Questions To Ask Before A Labiaplasty. (n.d.). Accessed at https://aedit.com/aedition/best-questions-to-ask-before-a-labiaplasty