Labiaplasty
The goal of the labiaplasty procedure is to make the labia minora (inner tissues of the female genitalia) flush with the labia majora (outer part of the female genitalia). Depending on the patient’s specific situation, this procedure may involve the use of several different surgical techniques. The main distinction between a labiaplasty and other procedures known as “vaginal rejuvenation” is that a labiaplasty is a surgical procedure. Energy devices such as lasers, radiofrequency, and ultrasound, to name a few, are commonly used in “vaginal rejuvenation” therapies. Most vaginal rejuvenation procedures use some form of energy to achieve a variety of results such as vaginal tightening, incontinence reduction, and vaginal dryness elimination. A labiaplasty does not require any energy devices, and you will work with your plastic surgeon to determine the goals of your surgery.
Females have enlarged labia for a variety of reasons, including childbirth, aging, sexual activity, and genetics. Females opt for surgery for a variety of reasons. First, there are several functional advantages to having a labiaplasty. Many females who have enlarged labia struggle with exercise, hygiene, urinary tract infections, sexual activity, and other physical activities.
Furthermore, with the growing trend of wearing yoga pants, workout pants, and swimming suits, an enlarged labium can make such clothing difficult to wear. However, when it comes to romantic relationships, most female patients report feeling extremely self-conscious. Females consider these and other factors when deciding on a labiaplasty.
Types of Labiaplasty
Initially, there was only one procedure for labiaplasty, and it was also very popular. Several techniques have evolved as time has passed and technology has advanced. Here are a few examples:
Trimming procedure: It is the original technique and the easiest to execute. It is also the most commonly used surgical technique. The excess labia minora is removed and sutured so that it is symmetrical with the labia majora during this procedure.
The wedge procedure: A partial thickness wedge is removed from the thickest part of the labia minora during this procedure. The submucosa (the layer of tissue beneath a mucous membrane) must be preserved by removing only a portion of it. This procedure also gives the vagina a natural appearance after surgery, preserving the wrinkled edges.
There are several other techniques for reducing the labia minora, and each has advantages and disadvantages. If you are considering a labiaplasty, the key to achieving the best results is to go to a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in this procedure.
Labiaplasty Procedure
Labiaplasty is performed as an outpatient procedure. The procedure can be completed in an hour, either alone or in conjunction with other cosmetic surgery. Depending on the treatment plan discussed with your plastic surgeon, it can be performed under local or general anesthesia. Your vitals (temperature, pulse, blood pressure, oxygen level, and breathing rate) will be taken by your surgeon shortly before the procedure. You may be subjected to additional blood tests and urinalysis.
They will insert an intravenous (IV) line into your arm or hand, and they may insert a urinary catheter into your urethra. Following that, your doctor will cleanse your labia and the skin around them, as well as shave your pubic area if necessary. Then the local or general anesthesia will be administered.
Your doctor will determine which surgical technique will be used based on how your labia (labia majora and/or labia minora) will be resized or reshaped. This surgery is typically performed with a scalpel, scissors, or laser. Your surgeon will remove your urinary catheter (if you have one) after surgery, and you will become more alert as the anesthesia wears off. You will be examined for bleeding. You will be given instructions on how to care for your wound while it heals before being discharged. Your providers will also talk about pain management and inform you about activity restrictions and follow-up appointments. You will experience swelling, discomfort, and pain, but these symptoms are usually manageable with over-the-counter medication. Home remedies, such as a cold compress or an icepack, can also be beneficial. To prevent infection, you may be given an oral antibiotic prescription or a topical antibiotic to apply to your surgical wound. The initial swelling, soreness, and temporary discoloration subside within a few weeks of surgery. After six weeks, the majority of the swelling has subsided. However, it may take up to four to six months for the swelling to subside before you can see the final results of your labiaplasty. Scarring is usually minimal to non-existent. After a few days, you should be able to return to work and other light activities. You may need to stay home longer if your job requires physical activity or lifting. You should avoid the following for four to six weeks:
- Exercising at a high level.
- Cycling, running, and swimming are examples of physical activities.
- Intimacy in the sexual sense.
Returning to these activities too soon can put strain on the wound, tear stitches, and cause healing to be delayed.
Benefits of Labiaplasty
Labiaplasty is used to reduce the size of the labial tissues. To ensure the patient’s comfort, this is done quickly and easily under local or general anesthesia. Excess skin is carefully removed, and the remaining tissue is reshaped for improved symmetry and a more appealing appearance. Here are some of the advantages of labiaplasty that have prompted women to learn more about it. Some of the reasons why a woman might consider this treatment are listed below. The labiaplasty procedure:
- improves the appearance of the vaginal area
- reduces irritation caused by irregular labia Reduces discomfort caused by larger labial tissues
- in intimate situations, it reduces embarrassment or self-consciousness.
- increases a woman’s self-esteem in her vaginal appearance.
