Understanding What Labiaplasty Is—and Isn’t

The field of feminine rejuvenation has been getting a lot of attention lately. One of these procedures—labiaplasty—is not always accurately described in media reports. Let’s discuss the true nature of this procedure and then look at how it can improve the health and happiness of the women who choose it.

What It’s Not…
Labiaplasty is not vaginal rejuvenation, in the strictest sense, because the vagina itself is not changed by this procedure. Neither the vaginal opening nor the muscles of the vagina are addressed during a labiaplasty.

What It Is…
Many women have overly large or misshaped labia (the lips surrounding the vagina). For some it is a genetic anomaly, while others see changes in the labia after childbirth, hormonal fluctuations, weight loss or gain, or as a result of the aging process. Labiaplasty can address both the labia minora (inner lips) or labia majora (outer lips) of the vagina. Oversized or irregular labia can be reduced and reshaped during a labiaplasty; outer labia that lack fullness can sometimes be improved through fat transfer procedures.

Why It’s Needed
Although you may have heard the term “genital aesthetics” used to describe feminine rejuvenation procedures, labiaplasty is often performed for more than cosmetic reasons. Large labia can become irritated and painful while engaging in certain types of exercise; sexual activity can be uncomfortable; and personal hygiene can be compromised. Women with large labia may find it difficult or impossible to wear tight clothing or a bathing suit without discomfort or even embarrassment, because the excess skin is often noticeable under these circumstances.

How It’s Done
For labia minora recontouring and reshaping, I use a two-stage procedure to perform labiaplasty. First, a laser is used to reduce the amount of excess tissue, then the skin is reshaped with sutures that dissolve, so the stitches do not need to be removed. Recovery is fairly rapid and most women are able to return to work in 3 to 4 days, depending on the nature of the job.

My staff and I understand the delicate nature of feminine rejuvenation and will be sensitive to your concerns during a consultation. We are happy to answer all of your questions. If you would like to learn more about labiaplasty, please visit us for a consultation.