Thinking About Labiaplasty? This is What to Expect Before and After Surgery

Are you mulling over getting a labiaplasty but still on the fence? This article is perfect for you!

Labiaplasty is one of the many forms of cosmetic gynecology and one of the more popular procedures for vaginal rejuvenation. Statistics by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) reveal that over 12,000 labiaplasty procedures are performed annually for a variety of reasons; right from alleviating the discomfort of a protruding labia minora to improving its appearance.

If you're looking for a labiaplasty treatment near you in Buffalo WNY, you have to assess your options wisely. Given the sensitive nature of this procedure, approach a credible and experienced surgeon with appropriate training and experience in Cosmetic Gyn services that practice under the most stringent medical safety codes.

Before going under the knife though, it's best to examine if this procedure is worth your time and money. As with any cosmetic gynecology procedure, the results are often tricky to reverse so it never hurts to be sure! In this article, we explore the basics of the procedure and help you decide whether it's a viable option for you.


What is Labiaplasty?

For starters, what is labiaplasty? Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure wherein the surgeon trims the surplus tissue on a protruding labia minora so that it can then be tucked neatly into the labia majora.

Why would you get a labiaplasty? Labiaplasties can be performed for cosmetic reasons (shaping your labia minora to look a certain way) or for functional reasons (excess tissue on the labia minora can be painful during intercourse or irritable while wearing a swimsuit).

It needs saying that, medically, there is no"right" size or standard length for the labia minora. If we're drawing broad strokes, we would say that a labia minora exceeding 5-6 centimeters in length would be considered"hypertrophic" or too long.

Again, even if your labia crosses this arbitrary benchmark, that isn't too say you are abnormal and surgery is mandatory. Many women enjoy a normal and healthy sex life even when their labia is considered to be longer than most.

If, however, the labia proves to impact your life negatively such as by sticking to the inner thigh during strenuous physical activity thereby causing irritation, itching or general discomfort, surgery is definitely worth looking into.

What You Should Know Before the Surgery

Once you've decided on surgery, it's time to explore its intricacies and how the surgeon will perform it. Labiaplasty isn't as physically taxing as other gynecology procedures. In most cases, your surgeon will perform it as an outpatient procedure wherein you won't have to stay the night at the hospital.

During surgery, the doctor trims the labia and uses dissolvable sutures to sitch the raw edges together. Alternatively, the surgeon may opt to go for the wedge approach where they preserve the edges of the labia but trim pie-shaped portions of tissue from other parts of the lip.

One of the more pressing questions on your mind is,"Is labiaplasty painful?"

Great news! Even though this procedure is performed on a sensitive portion of the female anatomy, labiaplasty is quite painless. The patient is administered with local or general anesthesia and the small measure of pain that some patients do report is easily tolerable.

How long does labiaplasty take to heal? Recovering from the bruising or swelling to the vulva is quick and uncomplicated. You may have to wear loose clothing in the following weeks and use a pad to absorb minimal bleeding. A handful of patients do take painkillers for a couple of days after the procedure. You will return to life as usual within a month at most.


Let's Talk Numbers!

How much does labiaplasty cost in the USA? The average estimated cost for a labiaplasty is $3,000-5,000. Depending on the reputation and location of the clinic, this cost can soar as high as $10,000-15,000.

So let's address the obvious; Can labiaplasty be covered by insurance? Being that it is cosmetic surgery and not medically required, your insurance will most likely not cover labiaplasty.

Labiaplasty and Childbirth

Another question we often get asked is,"Can you have a baby after labiaplasty?" The results of labiaplasty will hold after childbirth, although, the surge of hormones that occur during your final trimester as well as the process of childbirth itself could cause the labia minora to stretch and regrow.

In such a case, you may consider redoing the surgery. Play it safe and ask your surgeon whether you should get it done before or after childbirth beforehand.

Don't Take Risks When it Comes to Your Body. Approach The Trusted and Skilled Surgeons at Aesthetic Gynecology Specialists of WNY for Advice and Consultation at (716) 652-2665.

Aesthetic Gynecology Specialists of WNY has decades of experience in performing genital reconstruction and repair under the strictest levels of medical safety. We understand that you may be nervous considering the nature of these surgeries. Our team is here to put you at ease.

Surgery is still a long way off. The first step is to ask as many questions as possible! Contact us today and we will be happy to assist you in any way we can.




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About The Author

Dr. Armen Kirakosyan

Armen Kirakosyan, MD, FACOG, FPMRS, FRCSC, FACS is an obstetrician/gynecologist, certified by American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, American College of Surgeons, and Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. He has received subspecialty certification in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery (former Urogynecology).

Do not use the Blog to make medical decisions

All information provided in our blog should only be used to start a discussion, it is by no means to be used for any medical decision without consulting a doctor first.