6 Things You Need To Know About Labiaplasty

The Details & Benefits Of This Elegant Procedure

Those who aren’t completely familiar with labiaplasty may not fully understand why someone would seek it for themselves. At Donaldson, we educate on our procedures to promote awareness and understanding. We empower individuals to make well-informed decisions that lead to fuller, richer lives.

First Things First: What Is Labiaplasty?

Labiaplasty is any surgical procedure that alters the shape or size of the labia minora, which are the inner lips of the female genitalia. It may also include other features, such as a clitoral hood reduction or the creation of a fuller appearance of the outer labia.

The goal of a labiaplasty is to create a smaller, more proportionate, or “tucked in” appearance of the vulva. It is performed under local anesthesia meaning the area being operated on is completely numb, so you won’t feel a thing. 

6 facts you should know about labiaplasty:

1. Personal Motivation Matters

While some individuals seek the procedure to alleviate physical discomfort or irritation, others may do so for aesthetic reasons. Many labiaplasty procedures are performed for young women who want to change the size and proportion of their labia, or for mothers who want to restore the appearance of their labia after childbirth.

Labiaplasty is also sometimes employed for medical reasons, like if the size of the labia is causing pain or chronic UTIs.

2. Your Surgeon’s Technique May Vary

There are two common techniques plastic surgeons typically use during labiaplasty: the trim technique and the wedge technique.

Trim vs. Wedge Technique

The trim technique is a more simplistic approach that involves cutting the excess skin straight across and stitching the area along the edge. The wedge method employs a “v”-shaped cut in the middle of the excess tissue and joining the edges together.

Dr. Sieffert and Dr. Donaldson prefer to utilize a modified wedge technique that only removes the skin and leaves the functional tissue inside unharmed. This approach minimizes scarring and the potential loss of sensation while drastically reducing the chance of potential risks, with less than 1% of patients experiencing complications.

3. Recovery Is Quicker Than You Think

Recovery time varies among individuals, but typically patients can expect some discomfort, swelling, and bruising for a few days. You’ll be advised to wear padding and apply a salve in the days following to promote healing. Most patients only stay home for a day or two to take it easy. It’s smooth sailing from there!

4. You’ll Notice Some Unexpected Benefits

Patients have reported feeling more comfortable after labiaplasty doing physical activities like exercise, cycling, or even wearing certain types of clothing. Labiaplasty can help reduce anxiety surrounding intimacy or stress about wearing tight clothes or swimwear. It can provide relief from chafing and discomfort caused by irregular labia, and it can even mean an easier time maintaining hygiene in the area.

5. It Won’t Impact Childbirth

Because labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that alters the size or shape of the labia minora, is generally not expected to directly affect childbirth. The procedure focuses on the external appearance of the genitalia and does not involve any alterations to the internal reproductive organs or structures involved in childbirth.

Ultimately, if you are considering labiaplasty and planning to have children in the future, discussing your plans with your surgeon is wise so you have a comprehensive understanding of the potential of how your labia may change.

6. High Satisfaction Rate

Labiaplasty has experienced a substantial increase in popularity over the past decade. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the number of labiaplasty procedures performed in the United States has seen a significant rise, making it one of the fastest-growing cosmetic surgeries. Research suggests that many individuals who undergo labiaplasty report high levels of satisfaction with the results. Positive outcomes often include improved self-esteem, reduced discomfort, and increased comfort during physical activities.

At This Point, You May Be Wondering: Should I Get A Labiaplasty?

Labiaplasty is a low-risk, low-downtime, minimally invasive procedure that changes lives. We always recommend patient do their research and move forward with whatever plan they feel the most comfortable. You should never feel uncomfortable or rushed during this process.

Remember: It Is Your Personal Decision

Just because you want to change something about yourself doesn’t mean you love your body any less. The long-term results of your labiaplasty will boost your inner confidence which carries forward into every aspect of your life.

Some patients feel a little vulnerable during the parts of the process, and that is valid. Our team of experienced providers will do everything within its power to help you be as comfortable as possible. Your surgeon should make you feel at ease by educating you on the surgery and showing compassion.

Are You Ready To Take The Next Step In Your Confidence Journey?

Board-certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Michelle Sieffert and Dr. Jeffrey Donaldson are here whenever you’re ready to take the first step. We’re here for you every step of the way- from your first phone call until you are satisfied with your results.

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About The Author

Dr. Michelle Sieffert is an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon in Columbus, Ohio. She has completed hundreds of successful labiaplasty procedures during her tenure and continues to hone her surgical skills. Dr. Sieffert also has extensive, hands-on training from Wright State University’s Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery which has helped guide her throughout her 10+ year professional career.