Labiaplasty

What Does Labiaplasty (Labia Surgery) Entail?

Labia surgery, known as labiaplasty or labia reduction surgery, is designed to reduce the size of the labia minora (smaller, inner vaginal lips). It is very important to choose a surgeon, like Dr. Melissa Crosby, who is experienced and specializes in this procedure.

Who is a Candidate for Labiaplasty?

Appearance of labia minora naturally varies from woman to woman. Many women are born with large labia minora or experience changes in the appearance of their labia following childbirth. Some women want a labiaplasty purely for cosmetic reasons, others may also suffer from discomfort or irritation from large labia minora and labia reduction may help resolve these symptoms.

• Pain/pulling/discomfort/irritation with intercourse
• Pain/pulling/discomfort/irritation with certain activities/exercise/clothing
• Unable to wear certain clothes/lingerie/bikinis
• Irritation with prolonged sitting or walking
• Multi-directional urine stream
• Odor and other hygiene issues
• Unhappy with appearance due to asymmetry or pigmentation or length
• Previous Labia Minora Reduction surgery desiring evaluation for surgical correction
• Inhibits patient from sexual activity, self-conscious, and embarrassed due to extra tissue

Labiaplasty is done under either general or local anesthesia, in an out-patient surgery center or in the office, and depending on the complexity can take about 60-90 minutes. During labia surgery, a scalpel is used to contour the labia. Depending on the patients needs and wishes:

• both labia can be reduced
• a single side can be reduced so the labia are symmetrical in size
• pigmented edges can be removed so they are pink and present a more youthful appearance. Some women prefer to keep the darkened labia and that can also be accomplished.

Labiaplasty Recovery

Most patients leave the office or surgery center within one to two hours following the labia surgery. They return to the doctor’s office within a week for a post-op checkup and to have any questions answered. Patients receive pain and anti-inflammatory medications and can usually return to work within a week. Full recovery takes about 6-8 weeks contingent on the individual’s healing process. Because of the very fine, absorbable sutures used for the labiaplasty, there is usually very little scarring and the scars may not be visible to the eye because they are hidden in the creases and folds of the labia. Sensation may even be enhanced because of the new nerve endings and removal of the tissue.

Labiaplasty Cost

The cost of labiaplasty varies from patient to patient and depends on the complexity of the procedure. Unfortunately insurance companies usually do not pay for labiaplasty procedures. A financial quote will be given at your consultation.