Because of aging, childbirth, and weight changes, women may develop a lengthening of the inner labia or outer labia. When the labia becomes too long, it can make women self-conscious about the appearance of their vulva.

The extra skin can make a woman uncomfortable when wearing tight-fitting clothes and even cause pain when she works out. But this problem can be solved with labiaplasty.

What is the purpose of Labiaplasty? Labiaplasty, also called vaginal rejuvenation, is a cosmetic procedure that modifies the labia minora to the same length as the labia majora. This procedure is most often performed to reduce the discomfort from the labia minora being pulled and twisted by physical activity, intercourse, and other activities.

This procedure, labiaplasty, often is chosen as part of a mommy makeover, and other patients pair a labiaplasty with a tummy tuck or liposuction.

Please continue reading to learn more about this popular cosmetic surgery.

Purpose of a Labiaplasty

Labia shape and size vary by person, and the range of ‘normal’ will vary. But if a woman’s labia is elongated, the excess tissue can interfere with daily function and also lead to discomfort. It isn’t only daily life that presents problems, for some women they complain of a difficulty experiencing sexual pleasure due to their elongated labia. It has also been noted that some women seek out labiaplasty in hopes of lowering their incidence of urinary tract infections

For example, a woman runner whose labia is too long could find the skin sticks to the leg during workouts. Also, elongated labia tissue can make it uncomfortable to sit on a bicycle seat.

There also are women who have a labiaplasty for entirely aesthetic reasons. For instance, a woman may feel self-conscious during intimate moments about her genitalia’s appearance. This problem can also occur when she wears a swimsuit or thong, which can be visible in yoga pants.

Labiaplasty Procedure

To perform a labiaplasty, the plastic surgeon trims the excess tissue on the enlarged labia, so the labia minora lips stay within the labia majora, which is the vulva’s outer lips. This procedure can be performed under general or local anesthesia, and most women recover within a few days.

There are two types of labiaplasty:

Trim Labiaplasty

Your plastic surgeon will make a long incision along the labia minora edge to remove extra tissue, including the outermost edges. Some surgeons say this procedure is similar to pruning the very top of hedges, with a tissue segment removed at a level the plastic surgeon decides ahead of time.

This method is effective in removing discolored tissue on the labial edges.

Wedge Labiaplasty

The surgeon takes out a wedge-shaped piece of tissue from the middle of the labia minora lip. Next, they stitch the tissue that remains beach together to pull the labia minora tighter. This surgical procedure tucks the labia minora behind the labia majora for a more attractive appearance.

The wedge method is more complex, and there are shorter incisions on the labia width and not on the edge. However, some say the results of the wedge procedure look more natural, and there is little scarring.

Surgeons point out that the trim method results in a lighter color, but the wedge method has some edge irregularities. Talk to your plastic surgeon to decide which way is best for you.

You may need pain medication after cosmetic surgery, but only for three or four days.

Labiaplasty Recovery

Most labiaplasty patients take about a week off work. You can reduce swelling and pain by placing a cold pack inside the underwear with a towel. It’s recommended to ice like this for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off.

You can wear tampons and have sexual intercourse after four or six weeks. Some types of labiaplasty allow for a quicker recovery, so talk to your board-certified plastic surgeon for more information. It is important to follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully regarding when you can have sexual intercourse after labiaplasty.

Most significant labiaplasty swelling is gone after six weeks, but residual swelling can take up to six months to fade.

Labiaplasty usually leaves the patient with a shorter labia that doesn’t hang down below the labia majora. Patients who have experienced discomfort from tugging and twisting of the labia usually feel better after labiaplasty surgery.

Multiple patient surveys show labiaplasty surgery has a satisfaction rate of at least 90%. One study found that 91% of patients who had the procedure were ‘more satisfied’ with the appearance of their vaginas afterward. Many women say that due to their greater level of confidence after surgery, they enjoy more sexual pleasure as well.

Surgeons say you can ensure the best recovery by getting a lot of rest, elevating the pelvis, and using pain relievers and anti-inflammatories. However, they also note that women should take five or 10 minutes walks starting the day after labiaplasty surgery. You can prepare for labiaplasty recovery week by week with our guide on post-operative care for labiaplasty.

Who Is A Good Candidate?

The ideal candidate for labiaplasty are women over 18 who are self-conscious or uncomfortable due to the size or appearance of their labia are ideal candidates.

If you want to reduce the size of your labia, eliminate discolored skin or address asymmetry, this procedure could be a good fit. You also should be in good overall health and

You may not be a good fit for this procedure if someone else wants you to have it or if you expect ‘perfection’ from the surgery. Every labiaplasty is a bit different, and ‘ideal’ results will vary from person to person.

Women who have body dysmorphic disorder, for example, won’t be happy with labiaplasty in most cases. This is a condition where the person becomes obsessed with a perceived flaw in their appearance.

Questions and Answers

What would make a labiaplasty medically necessary?

If the labia undergoes stretching, it could result in interference with snug-fitting attire and cause discomfort during activities such as sitting, walking, exercising, or engaging in sexual activity. Additionally, individuals may encounter hygiene challenges with enlarged labia, as maintaining cleanliness can be challenging, and bacteria may accumulate in the skin folds. These are some common medical reasons for labiaplasty.

Will insurance cover a labiaplasty for medical reasons?

Typically, labiaplasty is regarded as a cosmetic intervention and is not included in insurance coverage. Consequently, patients usually bear the cost of the procedure themselves. While some insurance plans may cover labiaplasty in cases of medical necessity, such coverage is infrequently granted.

How do you know if you need a labiaplasty?

Labiaplasty surgery can be advantageous for any woman who perceives her labia as appearing or feeling abnormal. For instance, if the labia protrudes excessively, it may lead to discomfort during sexual activity or restrict participation in specific sports, such as biking. Enlarged inner or outer lips may also result in friction against clothing, causing chafing and irritation.

Request a Houston Labiaplasty Consultation

Interested in a vaginal rejuvenation in Houston? Please set up a consultation with Dr. Ashley Steinberg today. She’ll talk to you about the benefits Of labiaplasty and determine if you’re a good candidate.