Labiaplasty: The Basics

in Pensacola, FL

Labiaplasty: The Basics

labiaplasty plastic surgery

Vaginal rejuvenation has emerged as a surgical option for women who have lived with issues in the most intimate areas of the body. Shaddix Plastic Surgery offers labiaplasty for women who want to feel better about their appearance and improve their feminine comfort.

What is Labiaplasty?

Labiaplasty is a broad term that is used to describe any plastic surgery procedure that changes the labia minora or labia majora, known more commonly as the inner and outer lips of the vaginal area. Although labiaplasty is primarily a cosmetic procedure, some women do have functional symptoms that are related to the shape and size of the labia which can include chafing, pain with intercourse, irritation, pinching, and other concerns.

Dr. Shaddix may recommend labiaplasty if you are uncomfortable with the look of your labia or if you experience problems that are caused by the size of the labia.  Large labia can also cause discomfort during sexual activity or when wearing tight clothing.

How is Labiaplasty Performed?

Our labiaplasty procedures are customized to your needs, and we may recommend local anesthesia to numb the area or general anesthesia so that you are asleep during the procedure. Most labiaplasty procedures involve removing small amounts of soft tissue from the labia minora. The goal of the surgery may be to make the labia minora smaller to fit better inside the labia majora or to correct abnormalities such as asymmetry. Once the desired amount of tissue is removed and the labia are reshaped, the incision is closed with sutures.

What is Clitoral Hood Reduction?

The clitoral hood is a small piece of tissue that fits over the clitoris. During sexual intercourse, the clitoris enlarges and pushes back the hood, but in some women, the clitoral hood is too large. To enhance sexual satisfaction, we can reduce the size of the clitoral hood. This can be done at the same time as a labiaplasty procedure.

What Should I Expect After Labiaplasty Surgery?

We recommend that you rest at home for several days. You will have some swelling that can be controlled by gently applying cold compresses to the area for 20 minutes. You can use the cold compresses inside loosely fitting undergarments. If you are lying down, place a pillow under your buttocks to elevate the vaginal area.

Women who have labiaplasty should refrain from using tampons and having intercourse for four to six weeks. The swelling may last up to six weeks. We schedule follow-up appointments to check your progress and advise you about limitations to your activities.

Are There Risks Involved with Labiaplasty?

All surgeries do carry a degree of risk, and you can reduce these risks by working only with an experienced plastic surgeon for your labiaplasty procedure.

Are You Considering Labiaplasty? Contact Shaddix Plastic Surgery!

Labiaplasty gives the vaginal area a more contoured appearance, and women choose this option to feel more confident in intimate situations as well as to address problems that are related to the size and shape of the labia. If you are considering labiaplasty, contact us to schedule an appointment with double board certified plastic surgery, Dr. Shaddix.