Genetics, aging, pregnancy and childbirth can all contribute to changes in the labia. For some patients, these changes result in labia that are larger than they would like, which can cause discomfort during daily activities, exercise or intimacy. Concerns may also develop around the appearance of this area.
Labiaplasty can address these concerns by reshaping or reducing excess tissue with a variety of surgical techniques. The approach we use depends on the anatomy of each patient, as each technique allows us to remove or reposition tissue differently. At Robey Plastic Surgery & Regenerative Medicine in Carmel, IN, we perform these surgeries with a focus on both functional improvement and cosmetic refinement.
Labiaplasty is a surgical option that reduces or reshapes the labia minora, which are the inner folds of tissue surrounding the vaginal opening. The surgery can be performed for women who experience irritation, discomfort or unwanted changes in appearance caused by enlarged or uneven labia. Dr. Robey may use trimming or wedge techniques to remove excess tissue while keeping the shape and function of the area intact.
The most prominent portions of the female external genitalia are the mons pubis, the labia majora and the labia minora. While all of these can be addressed surgically, the labia minora are usually the primary issue.
The mons pubis is the hair-bearing area just below the central abdomen. The labia majora are the natural extension of this tissue past the labial commissure, where there are two distinct outer vaginal lips. The inner vaginal lips are called the labia minora. These structures tend to have more variability in length, size and symmetry.
Some women are bothered by excessively prominent labia minora because these structures can create several problems:
The most common procedure to address the labia minora is the traditional surgical approach, a labia minoraplasty. Dr. Robey’s preferred method for a labia minoraplasty involves placing a curvilinear incision along the free edge of the excessive labia minora, removing this excess tissue, and then closing the skin in layers.
Excessive labia majora can be addressed in different ways. A traditional surgical excision of the medial labia majora skin can help address lax tissue in this area. Sometimes, a deflated labia majora benefits from volumizing the tissue in the form of a fat transfer.
Droopy mons pubis tissue can benefit from a mons pubis lift. A mons lift is part of most every abdominoplasty, but some patients elect to focus on this area alone if the abdomen is not a concern. A monsplasty involves the removal of excess skin using an incision at the top of the mons pubis with tightening and lifting of the tissues. Loss of volume in the mons pubis can also sometimes benefit from a fat transfer.
A good candidate for labiaplasty surgery is someone who experiences physical discomfort or cosmetic concerns because of enlarged or uneven labia. Candidates should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about surgery results.
You may be a candidate if you:
The first step in labia surgery is a private consultation where you can share your concerns and goals. We will carefully examine the area, discuss your medical history and explain the different surgical methods that may be appropriate for your anatomy. The consultation also gives you time to ask questions and get a better understanding of what the surgery can accomplish.
Preparing for feminine rejuvenation surgery involves making sure your body is ready for healing. You may be asked to adjust medications, stop smoking and arrange for help at home in the first few days after the procedure.
Before surgery, you should:
On the day of your surgery, you will arrive at the surgical center and meet with your surgeon and nursing staff. Anesthesia will be administered to keep you comfortable, and the chosen surgical technique will be performed. The surgery typically takes one to two hours, depending on the amount of tissue involved, and afterward, you will spend time in recovery before being discharged the same day.
Some patients opt for in-office procedures with local anesthesia only. If you are a candidate for this option, you may be able to drive yourself home.
The early days of labiaplasty recovery usually involve swelling, tenderness and mild bruising, which can be managed with ice packs and medication. Most women can return to light daily activities within a week, although exercise, intercourse and strenuous activity should be avoided for four to six weeks. Full healing and resolution of swelling can take several weeks, and follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress.
Caring for your surgical site is an important part of healing. You will be given detailed instructions on how to keep the area clean, how to manage swelling and which activities to avoid during the early stages of recovery. Loose cotton underwear and breathable clothing make the healing process more comfortable, and it is important to come to all of your follow-up visits so we can evaluate your progress and address any concerns.
Your results will start to be noticeable as your swelling subsides and your tissues settle into their new shape. Once tissues heal, you will notice a reduction in irritation, more comfort wearing the clothes you want and a smaller and more balanced labial appearance.
Dr. Robey brings an unmatched level of training and expertise to every surgery she performs, including procedures involving the labia majora. She is quadruple board-certified in Plastic Surgery, Reconstructive Plastic Surgery, Facial Plastic Surgery, and Head and Neck Surgery/ENT, as well as Board Certified in Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine. Beyond her clinical work, she is a published author and international speaker, and she is one of only thirteen doctors worldwide to hold her prestigious set of certifications.
Real
Results
Most labiaplasty surgery procedures last between one and two hours, depending on the surgical technique and the amount of tissue involved. Because it is an outpatient procedure, you will be able to return home the same day once the anesthesia wears off and you are stable. Preparation before surgery and recovery afterward add to the total time spent at the surgical center, so you should plan for several hours in total.
Dr. Robey carefully places incisions along the natural folds of the labia so that scars stay discreet. Scars fade as the tissue heals and will become much more difficult to notice with time. Individual healing varies, but with proper aftercare, scarring is usually minimal and well concealed within the natural anatomy.
Surgery on the labia minora reduces extra tissue without altering the structures responsible for sensation or sexual function. Because the focus is on reshaping or reducing the edges of the labia, the areas that contribute to sexual response are not disturbed. Many of our patients notice improved comfort after healing, especially if enlarged tissue had caused irritation or discomfort during intimacy before surgery.
The results of labiaplasty are long-lasting because the tissue that has been removed does not grow back. Natural factors such as aging, hormonal changes or future childbirth may still affect the appearance of the labia, but the improvements made during surgery generally remain stable. Most women do not need additional procedures later unless there are significant changes in their anatomy.
Recovery from labiaplasty follows a gradual process, with the first week usually involving swelling, tenderness, and limited activity. Most women feel ready to return to work and daily routines within a week, although exercise, intimacy and strenuous movements should wait four to six weeks.
Feel free to give us a ring with our information below or leave us an online message, we will gladly answer further questions.
Call 317.721.7110Labiaplasty can address discomfort caused by enlarged or uneven tissue and create a more balanced appearance using techniques chosen for each patient’s situation. At Robey Plastic Surgery & Regenerative Medicine in Carmel, IN, we provide detailed consultations and individualized surgical plans to improve both comfort and aesthetics.
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