Understanding Labiaplasty: Your Guide to Personal Cosmetic Surgery

In the realm of cosmetic enhancements, procedures like Breast Augmentation and Tummy Tuck often steal the spotlight. However, there is an increasing dialogue surrounding more intimate forms of cosmetic surgery, such as Labiaplasty — a procedure gaining attention for its personal impact and high patient satisfaction. Also known as vaginal rejuvenation, Labiaplasty can improve a patient’s overall sense of well-being.

Demystifying Labiaplasty: What you need to know

Labiaplasty is a procedure designed to reshape or reduce the size of the labia minora to alleviate discomfort or achieve a desired aesthetic look. Employing state-of-the-art techniques to minimize visible scarring, Dr. Coan at CARE specializes in creating natural-looking results while maximizing patient comfort and safety.

The Rising Trend of Labiaplasty

Though not as commonly discussed, Labiaplasty is becoming one of the most sought-after cosmetic surgeries, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. It’s not just about aesthetics; it addresses functional and health issues, resulting in over 90% satisfaction rates among patients. Whether it is part of a comprehensive Mommy Makeover or a stand-alone procedure, Labiaplasty at CARE is personalized to fit your individual needs and goals.

Determining If Labiaplasty is the Right Choice for You

Overall, women may choose to undergo labiaplasty surgery for a variety of reasons. Because this procedure reduces the length of the labia minora, it can relieve symptoms associated with tugging and twisting of this excess tissue. For some, excess labial skin can even lead to hygiene issues and urinary tract infections. Many women also choose to undergo this procedure due to cosmetic reasons and to feel more comfortable in their bodies. Furthermore, with the popular trend of wearing yoga pants or workout clothing, an enlarged labium can cause discomfort or self-consciousness, as labial tissue may be noticeable through tight clothing.

Overall, Labiaplasty might be worth considering if you are experiencing physical discomfort or self-consciousness linked to the size or shape of your labia. Discomfort during physical activity or when wearing certain clothes can be significantly reduced post-procedure, restoring comfort, and enhancing confidence. Many patients also enjoy a boost in self-confidence, improving their sexual intimacy.

How is the Labiaplasty Procedure Performed?

Labiaplasty is an outpatient procedure that can be performed under either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with oral sedation.

There are a variety of techniques that can be employed during Labiaplasty. The most common include the trim procedure and the wedge procedure. Closure is usually done with absorbable sutures. Dr. Coan will work with you to determine which procedure is best for achieving your overall goals based on your health and anatomy.

Trim Procedure

During the trim procedure, excess labial tissue is removed from the labia minora so that it is symmetrical with the labia majora.

Wedge Procedure

During the wedge procedure, a partial thickness wedge of tissue is removed from the thickest part of the labia minora. This procedure allows for a natural look.

Furthermore, clitoral hood reduction is also often performed along with a Labiaplasty. This procedure is done to remove excess tissue that causes folds of the clitoral hood. These folds can create a bulge that is exaggerated when the inner labia are reduced. Clitoral hood reduction can improve the overall appearance and balance of the female genitalia.

Is There Downtime Associated with the Labiaplasty Procedure?

Because Labiaplasty is a plastic surgery procedure, there will be some associated downtime. Following surgery, patients will need to take a week to recover. A cold pack can be used to reduce swelling or discomfort. It is advised that patients avoid wearing tight clothes during recovery, as they may cause friction against the surgical wound and prevent healing.

Most patients can resume sexual intercourse and most physical activities within four to six weeks. The majority of swelling should be gone after six weeks, though residual swelling may take up to six months to dissipate. After six months patients will be able to enjoy their desired aesthetic outcome.

If you have any concerns regarding recovery following this surgical procedure, please do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider.

Take the Next Step: Book Your Consultation at our Cary Office

If you are considering pursuing surgery such as Labiaplasty, or any form of cosmetic surgery, we warmly invite you to schedule a personal consultation at CARE. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Brian Coan, our double board-certified Plastic Surgeon, and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS), you will receive compassionate care tailored to your individual leads. Request a consultation or give us a call at 919-484-4884 to speak with our concierge team. We are committed to your well-being and self-confidence!

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