What is labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty, also known as labia reduction, is a surgery to reduce the length of the labia (the outer and inner “lips” that line the vaginal opening).
This type of procedure is normally sought for cosmetic reasons — some patients are self-conscious and dislike the look or size of the labia — but labia reduction can also help relieve discomfort.
Long labia minora (“inner lips”) can cause physical discomfort during sexual intercourse, when sitting down, or while wearing tight clothing for physical activities — especially if they hang longer than the labia majora (“outer lips”).
Labiaplasty can resolve many functional and cosmetic concerns and help boost self-confidence and a positive body image.
What are the types of labia reduction surgery?
Labia reduction can be performed as an outpatient procedure right in your doctor’s office; hospitalization is unnecessary. You will be administered a sedative and local anesthesia — general anesthesia is also an option if you’d like to be completely unconscious for the procedure. The surgery typically takes about an hour or two.
Your exact treatment plan will depend on your general health, the size of your labia, and your vision for your genitals.
Trimming technique
Trimming is the most popular method of labiaplasty surgery. This surgical technique involves trimming labial tissues from the outermost edges of the labia. This technique removes excess skin and can remove dark or discolored labial tissue, increasing comfort and self-esteem.
Wedging technique
In the wedge labiaplasty procedure, the surgeon excises a triangular-shaped wedge of excess tissue from each labia and stitches the two cut edges together. This method reduces the volume of the labia tissue without shortening its length.
This cosmetic procedure involves reshaping the vulva to a more natural or comfortable shape and correcting any asymmetry between the labia.
While this technique may seem more invasive, the incisions are generally small and heal into barely noticeable (or even invisible) scars.
Labiaplasty vs. vaginoplasty
While labiaplasty is a cosmetic surgery solely focused on the labia, vaginoplasty (as the name implies) focuses on the vagina.
Labiaplasty, vaginoplasty, and clitoral hood reduction (unsheathing of the clitoris) are all considered vaginal rejuvenation procedures — as they “rejuvenate” the appearance of the vaginal area while retaining functionality.
As seen on BuzzFeed and featuring renowned Dr. Aliabad discussing the Labia and Labiaplasty.
What is the recovery time for labiaplasty?
After your procedure, you will need to wait in the recovery room for about an hour while the general or local anesthetic wears off. You will need to have someone drive you home.
Traditionally, Dr. Aliabadi will use dissolving sutures, so you won’t have to return to the office to have stitches removed. However, remember to attend any scheduled follow-ups with your gynecologist to ensure proper healing.
It’s normal to experience some discomfort and swelling for the first week, but that can easily be managed with pain medication. Most labiaplasty patients take the week off work, as sitting could be painful. During the healing process, an inflatable doughnut-shaped cushion can be used to take the pressure off your genitals while sitting.
Refrain from any vaginal sexual activities or tampon use for about four to six weeks. After six weeks, you should be able to return to your normal routine.
Am I a good candidate for labiaplasty?
Ideal candidates are in good general health and don’t smoke. Labiaplasty is recommended for patients whose labia are negatively impacting their quality of life due to appearance or discomfort.
Labiaplasty itself will not address incontinence or functional problems. If you are worried about vaginal dryness, incontinence, or sexual dysfunction, consult with Dr. Aliabadi before turning to plastic surgery.
Why choose Dr. Thais Aliabadi?
As one of the nation’s leading OB/GYNs, Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi offers the very best in gynecological and obstetric care. Together with her warm, professional team, Dr. Aliabadi supports women through all phases of life. She fosters a special one-on-one relationship between patient and doctor.
Board-certified Dr. Aliabadi is a recognized leader in gynecological and labiaplasty surgery and has even taught minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques to other surgeons across the country.
We invite you to establish care with Dr. Aliabadi. Please make an appointment online or call us at (844) 863-6700.
The practice of Dr. Thais Aliabadi and the Outpatient Hysterectomy Center is conveniently located for patients throughout Southern California and the Los Angeles area. We are near Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Santa Monica, West Los Angeles, Culver City, Hollywood, Venice, Marina del Rey, Malibu, Manhattan Beach, and Downtown Los Angeles.
Labiaplasty FAQs
What are the risks of labia reduction surgery?
Labia reduction is a safe surgical procedure with few risks. However, with any surgery, there is always a risk of complications. Possible complications from labia reduction surgery include infection, bleeding, lingering pain, and loss or change of sensation in the female genitalia.
Talk to your labiaplasty surgeon about the potential risks of this surgery and its benefits for you.
How much does labiaplasty cost?
Because labiaplasty is a personalized procedure, costs vary based on each patient’s specific needs and goals. During your consultation, Dr. Aliabadi will develop a tailored plan for your labiaplasty, ensuring the approach is customized to your unique anatomy and desired outcome.
What is labia fat grafting?
Labia fat grafting is a cosmetic procedure where fat is taken from another part of the body and injected into the labia majora to restore volume, improve appearance, and enhance comfort.
Sources
Posterior Wedge Resection | Aesthetic Surgery Journal | Oxford Academic https://doi.org/10.1177/1090820X13494755
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (2020). Vaginal Rejuvenation: Surgical Options. Retrieved from https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/vaginal-rejuvenation/labiaplasty
Supported by her warm professional team, Dr. Aliabadi treats women through all phases of life and cherishes the special one-on-one relationship between patient and doctor.