Also known as labia reduction surgery, labiaplasty is a cosmetic procedure that is designed to improve the overall aesthetic appearance of the female genitalia. During the procedure, the cosmetic or plastic surgeon will generally shorten, reshape, and improve the symmetry of your labia. Most women seeking labiaplasty surgery do so to correct the unattractive appearance of long, thick and/or asymmetrical labial lips which may have been caused as a result of hormonal changes, childbirth, dramatic weight-loss, aging or congenital conditions.
As an additional benefit, labiaplasty can also improve conditions that make sexual intercourse, wearing tight clothing, and performing certain physical activities (like cycling) uncomfortable as a result of too much rubbing.
Labia reduction surgery can be performed on either the labia majora, labia minora, or both. Additionally, and depending on your goals, labiaplasty surgery may be combined with a vaginal tightening surgery, hymenoplasty, clitoral hood reduction surgery, and/or labial puffing, 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, labiaplasty surgery can rejuvenate and improve the appearance of your vagina.
Labiaplasty Surgery Methods
There are variations to the number and placement of the incisions used for labiaplasty surgery. The exact technique used by the surgeon will vary based on a patient’s existing tissue, the amount of excess skin to be removed, and the desired aesthetic outcome that the patient is looking for; and whether this requires surgery for the labia majora, labia minora, or both (respectfully the inner and outer “lips” of the vagina which surround the clitoris and vaginal opening of the vagina). Your cosmetic or plastic surgeon will recommend the type of labia reduction surgery, as well as any secondary procedures, that will together achieve the results you are looking for.
The Barbie Labiaplasty
As the name implies, this method of labiaplasty seeks to provide a perfectly smooth “Barbie doll” like appearance to your vagina. During this procedure, most, if not all of the labia minora (inside lips) are removed, leaving a completely tight and smooth single line opening. Sometimes additional correction to the labia majora is required to ensure the “single line” opening has an aesthetically pleasing shape and does not sag.
Rim or “Peek-a-boo” Labiaplasty
One of the most common and more conservative methods for conducting labiaplasty surgery, the “rim” or “peek-a-boo” technique modestly reduces the size and shape both the labia minora and labia majora (the inside and outside lips of the vagina). Part of the labia minora is allowed to protrude slightly outside of the labia majora, in effect, to “peek out”. At the same time, a part of the labia majora is left intact around the vaginal opening, leaving a natural, attractive rim.
Hybrid “Clamshell” Labiaplasty
The hybrid procedure is a combination between the “Rim” labiaplasty procedure and the Barbie and is sometimes referred to as the “clamshell” method. During this procedure the labia minora is reduced in size so that the labia majora overlaps it, however, the reduction is less complete than with the full Barbie method, leaving approximately one centimeter of the labia minora intact.
Labia MAJORA-plasty
For women who suffer from excessively long or sagging labia majora, but are otherwise happy with the appearance and sexual function of their genitalia, the best option may be reduce and reshape only the labia majora. During this procedure, the length, shape and symmetry of the labia majora are corrected by removing excess skin leaving a balanced, smooth look.
Labiaplasty Surgery
Labiaplasty surgery is a relatively straightforward, outpatient procedure that is performed while the patient is under general anesthesia or using a combination of local anesthesia and intravenous sedation. Surgery can be completed in as little as 1 hour, however, the actual length of the surgery may vary based on the number and type of additional procedures being performed (i.e. vaginal tightening, etc.).
There are variations to the number and placement of the incisions used for labia reduction surgery. Given the particulars of your specific case and desired outcome for the shape and appearance of your vagina, your surgeon will employ one or more of the methods for conducting labia reduction (described above) after having discussed it with you during your consultation.
Next, your surgeon will make a number of delicate incisions made in concealed areas, remove excess skin and stitch the remaining tissue back together with absorbable sutures that gradually dissolve as you heal. Conversely, your surgeon may employ specific laser techniques to modify and sculpt the appearance of the labia. One of the benefits of laser surgery is that it is shown to reduce the frequency of bleeding, while also reducing the amount of time required for recovery.
Labiaplasty Recovery
Today’s techniques allow for a relatively comfortable and brief recuperation after labiaplasty surgery. Most patients take 1 to 3 days off from work to rest and heal at home, although they are still able to move about the house and participate in light activities.
Recovery prior to resuming sexual activity is a bit longer at 4-6 weeks following surgery. It is very important to carefully follow your plastic or cosmetic surgeons’ directions for self-care after surgery. At your follow-up appointments, your surgeon will gradually clear you to resume specific activities as your progress in healing permits.
While you wait to be cleared for more demanding activities, try to limit physical exertion, and apply cold compresses to sooth pain and reduce swelling.
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
Labiaplasty surgery will permanently reduce the length and thickness of your labia, improve the sexual function by reducing irritating pinching and rubbing, while also improving their symmetry and shape. Labia reduction surgery can greatly improve the aesthetic appeal of your vagina, helping you to reclaim the sexual confidence of your youth.
It is also important to note that the rejuvenating effects of a labiaplasty surgery can be adversely by changes in weight, childbirth and ageing. So consider carefully whether you are done having children prior to proceeding with labiaplasty.
As one of the fastest growing areas of elective surgery, labiaplasty surgery is both quite popular and quite safe. However, no surgery is completely free of risk. In general, potential risks following from labia reduction surgery include reaction to the anesthesia, hematoma or seroma, infection, bleeding, loss of sensation, damage to local tissue and organs, irregular contours or asymmetries, and the need for revision surgery.
Be sure to speak with your cosmetic or plastic surgeon about the benefits and limitations associated with labiaplasty surgery, and ensure that you fully understand the procedures and their related complications prior to signing your consent form.
