Labiaplasty is one of several cosmetic surgeries that target the female genitalia. It corrects the visible portion of a woman’s genital area. It can reshape the labia minora (inner lips) and/or labia majora (outer hair-bearing lips), increase the fullness and plumpness of the labia majora, or reduce their size by removing excess fat or by cutting away pieces of the labial tissue.
Labiaplasty Overview Because the procedure is relatively new, statistics on how many procedures are performed in the United States are not yet available.
Although nothing is medically wrong with larger inner or outer labia, many women in our culture find this unappealing or uncomfortable, and it shakes their self-confidence and self-esteem. Women who seek labiaplasty complain of labia overgrowth, asymmetry, elongation and discomfort during sexual activity or when wearing tight-fitting clothing. These complaints have several sources: genetics, sexual activity, hormones, pregnancy and childbirth and/or aging.
Good candidates for labiaplasty typically are unhappy with the appearance of their vulva and wish that they could change some part of it. They should be in relatively good health, have good skin tone and be able to follow their surgeon’s pre- and post-operative guidelines. They should have realistic goals and be in a balanced state of mental health.
One of the principal benefits of a labiaplasty surgery is an improved sense of beauty. Women who are self-conscious about the appearance of their genital areas when they are naked or wear tight-fitting clothing can feel more confident in intimate settings. Additionally, some women get relief from physical pain and discomfort through labiaplasty surgery.
The most important decision you will make regarding your labiaplasty is finding the right surgeon to perform the procedure. Use our Surgeon Locator to look for labiaplasty surgeons in your area. Read their profiles and view their before-and-after photo galleries.
Learn About Labiaplasty Many surgeons offer free consultations, others charge for them, and some apply the cost of the consultation toward surgery. Take a copy of your medical history to the consultation, including all serious illnesses, major surgeries and prescribed and over-the-counter medications and supplements.
The physical examination will establish whether you are a good candidate for labiaplasty surgery. The surgeon will discuss possible labiaplasty techniques possibilities for additional procedures.
Your surgeon will also give you an overview of what to expect before, during and after recovery. You’ll learn what activities you will avoid and for how long, and how much pain and discomfort you are likely to experience.
If you feel confident that the doctor is a good fit for you, schedule your labiaplasty surgery when you are ready. However, if you remain unsure, take time to think about it and visit other doctors.
As you study this website, make notes of what to ask your labiaplasty surgeon during your consultation:
- His or her background and experience
- If you are a good candidate for labiaplasty and/or other female genital surgery
- Possible results, side effects, complications, and risks
- How much pain you can expect and how it will be managed
- The costs of surgery
- What to expect before, during and after recovery
