Labiaplasty

What is Labiaplasty, or Labia Reduction Surgery?

Labiaplasty is the surgical reduction of the labia minora and or labia majora, these are the outer folds and inner lips of the vagina. Most women choose labiaplasty surgery for cosmetic reasons. Improving the appearance of large or uneven labia may increase self-esteem and improve self-consciousness. There are also non-cosmetic reasons to choose labia reduction surgery. Some women may have experienced trauma or tearing during childbirth, it is also possible that their labia is naturally large or thick and they interfere with exercise. Chafing and irritation are common issues with large labia. Reducing large labia not only helps with irritation but it will also reduce the appearance of the labia when wearing tight fitting clothes.

Who is a good candidate for Labiaplasty?

Women who are experiencing discomfort and chafing due to the length of their labia, or women who have tears in the labia due to childbirth are good candidates for Labiaplasty. Candidates must also have realistic expectations of the outcome and be in general good health.

Who is NOT a candidate?

Why do the procedure/ what are the benefits?

There are many different reasons that individuals seek to have Labiaplasty, the most common reasons/benefits are as follows:

• Excessive skin causing a bulging-like appearance in clothing

• Chafing of the area due to excessive skin rubbing against clothing

• Insecurities of the labia appearance in bathing suits or intimate attire

• Overall increased confidence and self-esteem

Does Labiaplasty Surgery Tighten the Vagina?

No, Labiaplasty surgery only reshapes and or reduces the size of the labia. Surgical vaginal rejuvenation or vaginoplasty and non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation procedures tighten the vaginal canal

How is the procedure done?

This procedure can be conducted either at the office or a surgery center, led by a certified Gynecologist, Urogynecologist, or Plastic Surgeon. Dr. Wei has honed his technique over time to safely reduce the size of the labia majora by excising a crescent-shaped portion from the inner area. The resulting scar is discreetly concealed within the crease between the inner and outer labia.

The entire procedure typically lasts 60 minutes. The preferred tool for this surgery is the Ellman Surgitron, chosen for its notably lower destructiveness compared to frequently advertised lasers.

How long will it take to see results?

You will want to allow at least 6 months for all swelling to go down and healing of the skin to take place to see the full permanent results of this procedure.

How long is recovery?

For the first week, you should limit activities, you certainly may walk around and drive but must avoid all lifting, exercise, vacuuming, and swimming. Do not insert anything into the vagina! No tampons and no sex for 6 weeks. Dr. Wei will discuss all recovery medications and activities with you in detail after your surgery. Most patients can resume all daily activities within 8 weeks.

How often do you have to follow up/maintain?

No maintenance is necessary. This procedure provides you with permanent results.

The only maintenance necessary will be your post-operation appointments with your surgeon to monitor your healing. These scheduled appointments will be discussed with you during your preoperative consultation.

Is Labiaplasty an Outpatient Procedure?

Yes, labiaplasty is an outpatient procedure. The surgery may take between 1 to 3 hours and soreness should be expected for the first week.

How to Choose a Labiaplasty Surgeon?

Gynecologists, urogynecologists, and plastic surgeons encompass over 95% of the types of doctors who perform labiaplasties. Choose a labiaplasty surgeon with experience and the proper training. Request to see before and after photos during your consultation. Some labiaplasty doctors do not post labiaplasty before and after photos due to privacy restrictions and or consent. Dr. Judy Wei is a fellowship-trained board-certified OB/GYN and she completed Dr. Alinsod’s aesthetic vulvovaginal one-on-one surgical preceptorship.

a) Labia Minoraplasty

Labia minora is the smooth, more sensitive inner lips of the vagina. This surgery is for the removal of excess, floppy, or uneven tissue that often causes chronic irritation, rubbing, or discomfort during sexual intercourse. Labias can grow large with estrogen stimulation at puberty and pregnancy and with the effects of gravity with aging.

b) Labia Majoraplasty

Labia majora refers to the large fleshy, hair-covered outer lips of the vagina. The broader outer lips of the vulva can be enlarged with excess skin and tissue. This enlargement can cause an embarrassing bulge in pants, swimsuits, or leotards. It can also increase the discomfort of sweating in the vulva. The labia majora may be enlarged from birth, secondary to childbirth, or due to aging. Many women also find quite a large and droopy labia majora after major weight loss such as post bariatric surgery.