Frequently Asked Questions About Labiaplasty
- Posted on: Feb 15 2024
If you’re curious about labiaplasty but still have questions, you’re not alone. Many women wonder what the procedure entails if they are good candidates, what results to expect, and how to get started. Here are some of the most commonly asked questions to help you determine if labiaplasty is right for you.
What Exactly is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that reduces the size or reshapes the labia minora. The labia minora are the inner “lips” of the vulva. Some women choose to get labiaplasty because they feel self-conscious about the appearance of their labia or experience physical discomfort from long or uneven labia getting tugged or twisted.
During a labiaplasty, an incision is made along the edge of the labia, allowing for excess tissue to be removed and the remaining tissue to be sutured back together. The procedure is done under local anesthesia and takes about 1-2 hours from start to finish. Most women can return to normal activity within a week or two.
How Do I Know If I’m a Good Candidate?
If your labia minora protrudes past your labia majora or are uneven/asymmetrical, you may be bothered by their appearance and are likely a good candidate for labiaplasty. The ideal candidate has labia large enough to reduce while still preserving normal anatomy and function after surgery. You should also consider labiaplasty if your labia physically gets pulled, pinched, or tangled, causing chronic discomfort with exercise, intimacy, or daily activities. Women who simply dislike the look of their vulva but have no functional impairments typically won’t benefit.
What Results Can I Expect?
If you get labiaplasty for cosmetic reasons, you can expect a vulva with smaller, more proportionate labia minora that no longer protrudes from the labia majora. If done for functional reasons, you’ll likely experience the elimination of the chronic tugging, pinching, and tangling. In both cases, there will be a noticeable visual difference that most patients appreciate. Scarring is minimal and will continue to fade over the first year. The sensation is preserved, though some numbness can occur.
How Do I Take the Next Step?
If you believe you might benefit from labiaplasty, start with a consultation to discuss your goals. Bring in photos so Dr. Amirlak understands what your concerns are. Be prepared to speak openly about any functional impairments you experience as well. From there, Dr. Amirlak will examine your anatomy and help determine if labiaplasty is right for you. If you decide to move forward, arrangements will be made for surgery and recovery. To learn more or to schedule your labiaplasty consultation, contact the office of Bardia Amirlak, MD, in Dallas, TX, at 972-972-4708.
Posted in: Body Procedures
