Labiaplasty: The How and Why

The highly personal nature of labiaplasty can make it difficult for our Phoenix, AZ, area patients to discuss. The stigma or taboo that still surrounds this procedure may prevent women from getting the information they need. I want to start a discussion about labiaplasty, as it has the potential to make a positive impact on the lives of many women.

Why would someone get a labiaplasty?

It is not uncommon for labia to become stretched or enlarged. Many women develop this condition and suffer from embarrassment and physical discomfort. Wearing tight clothing can cause chafing, riding a horse or bicycle can be painful, and intimacy can become anxiety-inducing. Now, women have the option to surgically correct these problems. Labiaplasty is a plastic surgery procedure to reduce enlarged labia for improved comfort and quality of life.

Women sometimes combine labiaplasty with other body contouring and breast enhancement surgeries as part of a mommy makeover to restore their bodies after pregnancy or weight loss.

What happens during a labiaplasty?

There are several ways to perform labiaplasty. I prefer a technique that preserves sensation and minimizes scarring. Using local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia (depending on patient preference), I perform a modified wedge resection technique. This procedure removes a wedge of excess tissue from the middle of the labia. Essentially, it’s a very delicate sculpting of the labia skin and surrounding tissue.

The procedure is performed at my surgery center and often takes only a little more than an hour. You can read more about labiaplasty on the American Society of Plastic Surgeons‘ website.

How long does labiaplasty recovery take?

Patients are usually back to their normal routine in about a week. However, it will be several weeks before sexual activity and strenuous exercise can resume.

What type of doctors do labiaplasty?

Choosing a skilled surgeon for your labiaplasty is absolutely essential. As a board-certified plastic surgeon with considerable medical education, training and experience, I am able to achieve attractive results in this highly sensitive area. Be sure to ask your surgeon about his or her experience with the labiaplasty procedure. Learn more about choosing the right surgeon for you in my related blog post.

What are the benefits of a labiaplasty?

Taking action to address enlarged labia takes courage, but most women tell me that they only wish they’d had their labiaplasty sooner. The benefits are clear: increased comfort and the confidence that comes from an aesthetically pleasing labia.

There’s no need to feel embarrassed about discussing labiaplasty with your surgeon. If you are considering labiaplasty surgery in Arizona, contact us using our online form or call us at (480) 423-1973 to schedule a consultation.