Labiaplasty

Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that involves reshaping or reducing the size of the labia minora, which are the inner lips of the vulva.

There are a host of reasons females have enlarged labia, including childbirth, aging, sexual activity and genetics. Females choose to have surgery for several reasons. First, there are several functional benefits when electing for a labiaplasty. Many females who suffer from an enlarged labia experience difficulty with exercise, hygiene, urinary tract infections, sexual activity and other physical activity.

Furthermore, with the increasing trend of wearing yoga pants, workout pants and swimming suits, an enlarged labium can make it difficult to wear such clothes. However, most female patients describe feeling extremely self-conscious when becoming romantically involved with their partners. These reasons and others are what females consider when choosing a labiaplasty.

There are various factors that contribute to the enlargement of labia such as giving birth, getting older, being sexually active, and genetics.

Many females with enlarged labia face difficulties with physical activities, hygiene, urinary tract infections, and sexual activity.

Additionally, things such as wearing snug-fitting clothes, swimming suits , and activities such as cycling can be challenging with an enlarged labia.

Many women who choose to have labiaplasty surgery often feel self-conscious about becoming intimate with their partners.

These are just a few of the considerations that women take into account when deciding to have labiaplasty.

Your surgeon will examine your labia and discuss the best surgical approach to achieve your desired results.

During the consultation, you should be prepared to discuss your comprehensive medical history. Relevant information includes current and previous medical conditions, drug allergies, previous medical treatments, pregnancy history and current medications.

Your Plastic Surgical Arts surgeon’s recommendation is based largely on the complete and accurate information you provide during this initial visit.

Your labia surgery may be performed in our surgical suite under a local anesthesia or general anesthesia at one of our local Lincoln hospitals, depending on the treatment plan discussed with your plastic surgeon.

If done in our surgical suite, local anesthetic will be administered and the surgical procedure performed. You will be able to drive yourself after the procedure if you so desire. Absorbable stitches will be used and you should plan to see your surgeon for follow up in 7-10 days.

If done in the hospital, check-in is typically 1 1/2 to 2 hours prior to your surgery time. Prior to the procedure, the surgeon will speak with you briefly to discuss the procedure and make any necessary markings. This procedure requires the use of a general anesthetic; therefore, you will be asleep during the surgery.

In general, patients can expect some swelling and discomfort in the surgical area, which can be managed with ice packs and pain medication.

You may also experience some mild bruising, but this should go away within a few days. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on caring for the surgical area, including any necessary hygiene practices.

It is important to avoid strenuous activities, including exercise and sexual activity, for several weeks following the procedure to allow the surgical area to heal properly. You should also avoid wearing tight clothing or underwear that may irritate the surgical area.

Most patients are able to return to work and regular activities within a few days to a week, but it may take several weeks for the surgical area to fully heal and for swelling to subside. Your surgeon will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress and ensure that you are on track for a smooth recovery.

It is important to remember that every person's recovery is different, so it is essential to follow your surgeon's specific instructions and to communicate any concerns or issues during the recovery process.

The timing for resuming regular activities after labiaplasty will depend on the extent of the procedure, your overall health, and how well your body is healing.

In general, you should avoid strenuous activities, including exercise and sexual activity, for at least 4-6 weeks after the surgery.

This allows the surgical area to heal properly and reduces the risk of complications such as bleeding or infection.

You should also avoid activities that may cause friction or irritation to the surgical area, such as wearing tight clothing or riding a bike, until your surgeon advises that it is safe to do so. It is important to follow your surgeon's specific instructions regarding activity restrictions and gradually increase your activity levels as your body continues to heal.

You can typically return to work and light activities within a few days to a week after the surgery, but it is important to listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself too hard too soon. It may take several weeks or even a few months for the swelling to fully subside and for the surgical area to feel completely healed.

Remember to stay in communication with your surgeon throughout the recovery process and report any concerns or issues promptly. This will help ensure a safe and successful recovery after your labiaplasty procedure.

The results of a labiaplasty are typically long-lasting. However, it is important to understand that the aging process and other factors such as weight fluctuations, hormonal changes, and pregnancy can affect the appearance of the labia over time.

While some women may require a revision surgery at some point in the future, most women are satisfied with the results of their labiaplasty for many years.