What is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes the size of the labia minora (inner lips) or labia majora (upper lips) of the vulva to the desired appearance. It is one of the most common vaginal rejuvenation procedures. Labiaplasty of the labia minora is the most common request.
Need for a Labiaplasty
The size and shape of the labia are unique to every woman. Most women have a longer labia minora than labia majora which is not an issue unless the variation in size is associated with discomfort, itching, twisting or tugging during sexual intercourse or riding a bike, or during physical activity. Labiaplasty may be needed for aesthetic purposes such as for women participating in sports, swimming, yoga practice, etc. who feel distressed due to the appearance of their genitals.
Labiaplasty Procedure
The procedure involves the following steps:
- You may be given a general, spinal or local anesthesia.
- Your surgeon trims the excess length of the labia minora such that it neatly fits within the labia majora. A scalpel or laser may be used to perform the cut.
- Your doctor may simultaneously reduce extra folds of the clitoral hood.
- Dissolvable sutures are used to stitch the loose edges.
After the Procedure
- Your doctor may prescribe pain medications to relieve pain.
- You may need to rest for a week for proper healing.
- Minor bleeding may occur. Use sanitary pads. Do not use tampons.
- Swelling can be managed by using ice packs.
- Prevent rubbing by wearing loose clothes.
- Keep the area clean to avoid any risks of infection.
- Resume sexual intercourse only after 4 to 6 weeks.
Complications of Labiaplasty
Most women do not experience any complications. In rare cases, excess bleeding may occur. Over-resection of the labia minora may cause pain during intercourse, scarring of tissue and vaginal dryness. A few women may experience the formation of blood clots in a vein, scarring or decrease in sensitivity of the genitals.
Advantages of Labiaplasty
Many women feel satisfied after a labiaplasty procedure. The procedure relieves daily problems of twisting or tugging while simultaneously enhancing their physical appearance.
Contraindications of Labiaplasty
As the labia minora continue to grow in size once a woman attains puberty, labiaplasty is not recommended for women below the age of 18.
