Labia Puffing

Labia Puffing

Labia Puffing is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure that is designed to improve the overall aesthetic appearance of the vulva through the use of injectables. During the procedure, the cosmetic or plastic surgeon will use a non-surgical injectable like hyaluronic acid, or autologous fat transfer, to rejuvenate and plump up the shape and appearance of the labia majora. Most women seeking labia puffing do so to correct the unattractive appearance of thin or wrinkled labia majora caused as a result of hormonal changes, childbirth, dramatic weight-loss, or aging. As an additional benefit, labia puffing can also improve conditions that make sexual intercourse more comfortable by improving the cushion provided by the outer lips of the labia.

Non-surgical labia puffing can be performed as a standalone procedure, or depending on your goals, it may be combined with a labiaplasty, vaginal tightening surgery, hymenoplasty, and/or clitoral hood reduction surgery in order to provide a more complete rejuvenation of the vagina.

The extent and number of procedures completed will be dependent on the particulars of your case, as well as your individual goals and expectations. Whether you want to improve the sexual appeal and appearance of your vagina or are experiencing functional problems with the lips of your labia, non-surgical labia puffing can help to rejuvenate and improve the appearance of your vagina.

 

Methods

There are two primary dermal fillers used for non-surgically increasing the volume of the labia majoria: Hyaluronic Acid and Autologous Fat Transfer. Your cosmetic or plastic surgeon will recommend the type of non-surgical labia puffing, as well as any secondary procedures, that will together achieve the results you are looking for.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid (HA) products are the most commonly used dermal fillers in Canada.  Hyaluronic acid is itself a naturally occurring chemical found in the deeper layers of the skin and is responsible (in part) for the elasticity and youthful appearance of our skin. As with other facial and lip injections, use of hyaluronic acid dermal fillers for labia puffing can be completed very quickly, sometimes in as little as 15 minutes and the results can last up to 6-8 months.

Fat Transfer

Less commonly used than hyaluronic acid, autologous fat transfer uses purified fat cells harvested from the patient’s own body (i.e. thighs, buttocks, abdomen) and injects them into the labia majora. As the harvesting and purification of the fat cells requires a separate procedure, the overall timeframe for this method may take longer, however, the results also last longer. Because the fat cells come from your own body, you will naturally re-absorb the tissue over time.

 

Labia Puffing Procedure

Non-surgical labia puffing is a relatively straightforward, outpatient procedure that can be completed on its own in as little as 15-30 minutes and may be administered using a local anesthetic. It should be noted however, that the actual length of the visit may vary based on method of labia puffing selected as well as the number and type of additional procedures being performed (i.e. labiaplasty, vaginal tightening, etc.), if any.

 

Recovery

Recovery times for non-surgical labia puffing varies between the use of hyaluronic acid and autologous fat transfer for completion of the procedure. The use of hyaluronic acid dermal filers has the shortest recovery period, as you may return to normal everyday activities immediately following the procedure. For autologous fat transfer, recovery the recovery period is slightly longer at approximately 1 day before the patient may return to normal everyday activities.

Be sure to follow the directions of your cosmetic or plastic surgeon for self-care following your procedure.

If pain and swelling persists, contact your surgeon to find out if your pain, redness and swelling is normal, or a sign of a problem requiring additional attention.

 

Considerations

Non-surgical labia puffing will temporarily reduce the appearance of a thin, elongated, or wrinkly labia. Additionally, it may improve your sexual comfort by increasing the available cushion provided by your labia majora. Non-surgical labia puffing can greatly improve the youthful appearance and aesthetic appeal of your vagina, helping you to reclaim your sexual confidence.

Some of the potential risks associated with dermal filler injections noted by Health Canada include swelling, infections, allergies, redness, pain, bruising, abscesses, raised bumps and skin discoloration.

Be sure to speak with your cosmetic or plastic surgeon about the benefits and limitations associated with non-surgical labia puffing, and ensure that you fully understand the procedures and their related complications prior to moving forward with your procedure.