What is a Labiaplasty?
A labiaplasty is a surgical procedure which includes labia minora / majora reduction and labia majora fat grafting, and are used as a cosmetic procedure for the labia. Genetic factors, irritation, hormones, and inflammation can cause women to experience enlarged or irregular labia. For many women, from an aesthetic standpoint, it makes them very uncomfortable or it may interfere with physical activity, personal hygiene, or sexual activity. Reduction labiaplasty works to reduce the size of a large labia in order to reduce their outward appearance and correct irregularities or problems with the shape.
What is Involved in Labiaplasty Surgery?
While this treatment is occasionally referred to as vaginal rejuvenation, it is important to remember that a labiaplasty does not change the size of the vaginal opening. The outer labia, or labia majora, can also be enhanced with fat grafting which can return fullness to the area. Patients are usually able to return home on the same day. During the procedure, a surgical laser is employed to remove excess tissue. Next, the skin is contoured and shaped with absorbable stitches, this allows patients to avoid stitch removal.
What is Recovering from Labiaplasty Like?
After surgery, patients can experience swelling in addition to mild discomfort. This will subside over the next 4 to 5 days. Labial incisions typically heal well and are usually not noticeable. The following day, patients will come back into the office. The sanitary pad which is placed after surgery can be changed as needed throughout healing. To keep clothing from rubbing against the stitches while the tissues heal, it is suggested to continue wearing the pads. To help minimize any complications, the doctor suggests:
- For the first three days, apply cool packs to the incisions.
- During the first 14 days, limit activity levels, be careful standing up and sitting down, and keep the incision areas lubricated with antibiotic ointment.
- For the first 3 weeks, limit activities which raise the heart rate or blood pressure including exercise, heavy lifting, and sexual activity. It is strongly suggested that patients do not use tampons or wear a thong or “G-string” type of underwear.
- Usually, patients can return to work in 3 to 4 days, depending on the physical demands of the person’s occupation.
For additional information and to see Labiaplasty before and after pictures, visit Dr. Wolny's RealSelf page.
