Are you looking into getting a labiaplasty in Houston? If so, you may be wondering just how much a Labiaplasty surgery costs.
The cost of a labiaplasty is different for each facility, as there are many factors that affect the price. These include things like the surgeon’s fee, the location of the facility, and the cost of anesthesia.
While you won’t receive an official quote until your initial consultation with the plastic surgeon, we can help break down some of the traditional costs associated with a labiaplasty procedure.
What is a labiaplasty?
A labiaplasty is a type of plastic surgery procedure that is done to address an enlarged labia minora or labia majora. The surgery can be done to the labia minora (inner lips), the labia majora (the outer lips), or both!
The cosmetic surgery is done by removing excess tissue and excess skin to reduce the size of the labia so that it matches a certain aesthetic. A labiaplasty can also be combined with a few other plastic surgeries for vaginal rejuvenation, including a clitoral hood reduction or perineoplasty. Surgeons are able to complete this procedure within 1-2 hours.
Labiaplasty is also combined frequently in a mommy makeover procedure and paired with other procedures such as a breast augmentation or tummy tuck.
Whether you just had a baby, are looking to reduce discomfort, or are simply unhappy with the appearance of your labia, a labiaplasty might just be for you.
Why get a labiaplasty?
While a labiaplasty is among the many cosmetic procedures a plastic surgeon can do, the surgery goes beyond improving your self-esteem. For instance, a labiaplasty can also be done to address feelings of discomfort and improve functional issues. Some individuals might experience pain or discomfort in their vaginal area during sexual intercourse, cycling, and running.
What is the average labiaplasty cost?
A labiaplasty, like any surgical procedure, can be a significant investment. The average cost is between $4,000 to $10,000 USD, but the actual cost can depend on various factors. Here is the typical labiaplasty cost breakdown.
What determines the cost of labiaplasty surgery?
The Plastic Surgeon’s Fee
The Plastic Surgeon’s FeeA significant portion of the total cost of the procedure is the plastic surgeon’s fee. This fee varies widely based on the surgeon’s level of training, experience, and expertise in performing vaginal rejuvenation procedures like labiaplasty. Surgeons who are highly specialized in cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries of the vaginal area may charge more due to their expertise.
Consultation Fee
Some surgeons may include a consultation fee, which could either be separate from or part of the overall procedure cost. This fee covers the initial assessment and discussion about the labiaplasty.
Location of Facility
The geographic location of the plastic surgery office plays a critical role in determining the overall price of the procedure. For example, undergoing labiaplasty in a metropolitan area like Houston might be more expensive due to higher operational costs in the region compared to less densely populated areas.
Cost of Anesthesia
The type of anesthesia used for the labiaplasty surgery also affects the cost. Whether the surgery requires local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia can impact the overall price. Since a qualified professional must administer anesthesia, the type used can vary based on the complexity of the surgery and patient preference.
Surgical and Non-Surgical Labiaplasty Options
Labiaplasty procedures vary based on individual aesthetic and functional goals. One of the most common techniques, trim labiaplasty, involves removing excess tissue along the labia minora’s edge, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a noticeable size reduction or addressing elongated, darkened edges.
Another approach, wedge labiaplasty, removes a V-shaped section from the thickest part of the labia minora. This method helps maintain the labia’s natural contour and pigmentation, making it a preferred option for individuals who want a more natural appearance post-surgery.
Additionally, some patients choose to combine labiaplasty with clitoral hood reduction, a procedure that removes excess tissue around the clitoral hood to improve symmetry and balance.
For those seeking non-surgical alternatives, radiofrequency and laser treatments offer subtle enhancements. Radiofrequency procedures, such as ThermiVa, use controlled heat energy to tighten labial tissue. Sessions typically cost between $2,500 and $3,000, with multiple treatments required for optimal results.
Laser therapy is another option, helping to firm and rejuvenate tissue in sessions lasting under 90 minutes. Treatment costs range from $500 to $1,500 per session, with most patients needing at least three sessions to achieve visible improvements.
While these non-invasive options require no downtime, they do not provide the same dramatic or long-lasting effects as surgical labiaplasty, making them best suited for those seeking minor refinements rather than significant reshaping.
Does insurance cover labiaplasty?
If you have health insurance, you may be wondering if your health insurance provider will cover the cost of labiaplasty. The insurance company could possibly pay for your labiaplasty procedure, but it would depend on your reasoning for the procedure.
Most patients have to pay out of pocket for labiaplasty cosmetic surgery. However, if you are considering labiaplasty for medical reasons such as necessary reconstructive surgery, physical discomfort, pain, hygiene issues, or other medical problems, they might be able to cover the total cost.
Is labiaplasty really painful?
While the vaginal area is sensitive, the labiaplasty procedure itself is not painful. It is performed under local or general anesthesia, which ensures you feel nothing during the surgery. Patient comfort is a priority, and anesthesia is used to numb the area completely throughout the procedure.
Most discomfort is experienced during the first few days of the recovery period after the anesthesia wears off. However, the pain is generally considered mild to moderate and manageable. Patients typically describe the sensation as soreness and tenderness rather than sharp pain, with discomfort gradually decreasing over the first week.
Any pain is usually well-controlled with a combination of prescribed medication for the first few days, followed by over-the-counter pain relievers. Using cold compresses or ice packs can also help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.
It is also normal to experience some swelling, bruising, and itching as the area heals. While some women report a temporary stinging sensation when urinating, this can be managed with proper post-operative care. Most patients are surprised by how little pain they feel and find they can return to most daily activities within a few days, with full healing taking about four to six weeks.
How Much is a Labiaplasty FAQs
What is vaginal rejuvenation?
Vaginal rejuvenation is a term that refers to surgically changing the shape of a woman’s genitals to “turn back the clock” on a woman’s body after having a baby. This term can refer to a number of cosmetic surgeries done to female genitalia, including a rejuvenation labiaplasty, vaginoplasty, g-spot amplification, and more.
What type of anesthesia is used for a labiaplasty?
It depends! The type of anesthesia used during your labiaplasty depends on the type of procedure your plastic surgeon uses, the comfort of the patient, and your surgeon’s personal preference.
For instance, those who are more scared of the procedure may want to go with general anesthesia so they are not awake. If the labiaplasty is simpler, the plastic surgeons might just complete the procedure with oral pain medication, local anesthesia, or a light sedative.
What causes labia hypertrophy?
Labia hypertrophy or an “enlarged labia” can be a result of multiple factors. These include childbirth, genetics, or even natural aging. While many women get labiaplasty for cosmetic reasons due to having excess labial tissue, they also find that labia hypertrophy can make it uncomfortable to wear tight pants and even bathing suits.
Can I exercise after a labiaplasty procedure?
Can I exercise after a labiaplasty procedure?It is recommended that you rest for at least a week after your labiaplasty surgery. Once you start to heal, you can do light exercises such as walking. If you are a runner or like to keep active during the week, you should wait for at least 3-4 weeks before you resume moderate exercise.
Most surgeons recommend that you wait at least 4-6 weeks before having sexual intercourse. While these are rough guidelines to follow, it is best to ask your doctor for specific details on after-surgical care during your follow-up visits.
How long does it take to recover?
Labiaplasty patients typically experience a labiaplasty recovery period that varies depending on the individual’s healing process, but on average, it takes about 4 to 6 weeks for a full recovery. The procedure often involves the use of dissolvable sutures, which gradually dissolve as the surgical site heals.
During the recovery phase, patients may experience swelling and discomfort, which generally subsides within a few weeks. Most patients return to work and other non-strenuous activities within 5 to 7 days post-surgery.
However, it is recommended to avoid sexual activity, the use of tampons, and strenuous physical activities for at least 4 to 6 weeks.
What is considered an enlarged labia?
While there are many different shapes, sizes, and colors when it comes to the labia, the labia is typically considered enlarged when there is around four to five centimeters of tissue that goes beyond the labia majora.
Of course, whether or not you think you need a labiaplasty should be determined through your personal feelings of discomfort, functionality, and aesthetic concerns.
Can Insurance Cover Labiaplasty?
Most insurance companies do not cover labiaplasty since it is considered a cosmetic procedure. However, if the surgery is performed for medical reasons, such as chronic discomfort, irritation, or recurring infections, your insurance might cover part or all of the procedure.
How Do I Choose the Right Surgeon for Labiaplasty?
When selecting a surgeon, consider their experience and specialization in labiaplasty, board certification in plastic surgery or gynecology, and patient feedback through reviews and testimonials. Reviewing before-and-after photos of previous patients and ensuring a comfortable, trustworthy consultation experience can also help you make an informed decision.
Why do so many women choose labiaplasty, and is it just a cosmetic procedure?
For many women, labiaplasty is more than cosmetic; it is one of the few medical procedures that can resolve functional issues and improve quality of life. During a consultation, your surgeon will review your medical history to understand your goals, which often relate to improving personal hygiene or reducing discomfort during physical activities.
Ultimately, the procedure can significantly impact how women feel about their comfort and confidence. It is important to clarify that labiaplasty addresses the external labia and does not tighten the internal vaginal canal, which is addressed by a different procedure.
Does labiaplasty leave a scar?
A labiaplasty does leave a scar, but it is strategically placed within the labia’s natural creases to keep it hidden. This area heals exceptionally well, so the scar typically fades significantly over time, becoming very discreet and hard to see.
Ready For Your Labiaplasty Consultation?
Dr. Ashley Steinberg is a board-certified plastic surgeon offering labiaplasty surgery in Houston, Texas. If you are ready to get started with your labiaplasty, give us a call or send us an email today, and we can help you schedule a consultation! During our consultation appointment, we can discuss your needs and provide you with a quote for the entire procedure.
