Publicado por Dr. Miguel Fernández Calderón: 26/05/2023
Today we want to talk to you about what a labiaplasty is, and explain more about the procedure, so as to clear up any uncertainty and help you make informed decisions about this surgery. Read on to find out more!
What is a labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is cosmetic surgery that changes the size or shape of the labia minora of the vulva, which are the folds of skin on either side of the vaginal opening. The aim is for the labia minora not to hang below the labia majora.
This condition is not a health problem in itself, but it can involve self-esteem issues and discomfort.
The reasons why women opt for this procedure can be varied and cover both aesthetic and functional grounds.
Some may feel physical discomfort during activities such as exercise or sexual intercourse because of the size of their labia minora. Others may opt for labiaplasty because of aesthetic insecurities or to improve their self-esteem. Every case is individual and depends on each woman’s personal circumstances.
Types of labiaplasty
Labia minora labiaplasty
This is the surgery performed to reduce the size of the labia minora, especially when they protrude excessively beyond the labia majora, causing physical or aesthetic problems.
It is the most common type of labiaplasty, and it is carried out by cutting away the excess tissue and reshaping the labia minora to correct their size and symmetry.
Labia majora labiaplasty
This is performed to improve the labia majora, either to reduce their size or to increase it. In women with very large labia majora, or where the skin of the area has lost its tone, the doctor can remove the excess fat or skin, depending on the reason for the size of the labia.
Also in women who have lost volume in their labia majora, in some cases because of ageing or the menopause, a labiaplasty makes it possible to correct this. In this case, the surgeon can transfer fat from other parts of the patient’s body or use dermal fillers, such as hyaluronic acid, to increase the size and volume in the area.
Ideal candidates for a labiaplasty
Every woman’s genitals look different, and a particular shape or a large size is not always an indication that the person needs a labiaplasty.
Prior medical assessment
Before undergoing any surgical procedure it is essential to see a plastic surgeon who specialises in and has experience with the type of surgery you want.
In the case of a labiaplasty, the doctor will review the patient’s medical history and carry out a physical examination of the genital area to assess the size, shape and degree of symmetry of the labia majora and minora. They will ask whether, because of these characteristics, the patient feels pain, discomfort or irritation, or has problems maintaining a normal sex life.
During that first assessment, the doctor will discuss with the patient her expectations and the possible results she will get after surgery.
Health and lifestyle factors
If you are concerned about the appearance of your vaginal labia or you feel discomfort when wearing tight clothing, doing certain exercise or during sexual intimacy, then labiaplasty could be an option worth considering for you.
On the other hand, labiaplasty is also part of gender-affirming surgery.
It is important to bear in mind that vaginal labia come in different thicknesses and sizes. And that if you have no medical concerns, your labia are considered normal.
At what age is the surgery recommended?
There is no set age for having a labiaplasty; however, it is recommended to wait until the woman has reached full physical maturity. This may happen at around 18, once puberty has finished and her growth and development have come to an end.
Before making any decision, it will be the surgeon who approves or rejects the surgery according to the patient’s age, based on her particular needs.
The procedure step by step
Before labiaplasty surgery you must attend a consultation with the specialist. This serves to understand your expectations and goals. The surgeon will review your medical history and discuss the details of the procedure with you.
Anaesthetic and preparation
Preparation for a labiaplasty may include specific instructions about diet, medication and abstaining from tobacco and alcohol. It is important to follow these recommendations for a safe, successful procedure.
Labiaplasty is generally performed under local anaesthetic and sedation depending on your comfort and the extent of the procedure. The area will be numbed. In addition, you will be given an oral sedative to calm your nerves before and during this surgery. Which means you should not feel pain during the procedure.
Surgical technique and operating times
During this procedure precise surgical techniques are used to reshape the labia minora, ensuring a natural, symmetrical result.
The specific technique for performing a labiaplasty will depend on each woman and her case; the most common methods include:
- Edge resection or amputation technique: This technique involves directly removing the excess tissue along the edge of the labia minora. It is simple, but it can result in a less natural appearance because of the loss of the contour of the edge of the labia minora.
- Wedge resection or central resection technique: This involves removing a “wedge” or central portion of the labia minora, preserving the natural edge of the labia. The edges of the incision are then sutured together. This technique can preserve the natural appearance of the labia minora, but it can be technically more challenging.
- De-epithelialisation technique: This involves removing the outer layer of skin (epithelium) from a portion of the labium minus, reducing its size but preserving most of the natural structure of the labium. This technique can be useful when only a modest reduction is needed.
- Laser technique: Some surgeons may choose to use a laser to perform the labiaplasty. The laser can offer greater precision and can minimise bleeding during surgery.
The decision on one technique or another will be taken by the surgeon and explained to you at the appointments before surgery.
Because of the area where the operation is performed, absorbable sutures are used, for the patient’s greater comfort and convenience.
Surgery on the labia minora or majora can take between 1 and 2 hours; this time will depend on factors such as the type of technique chosen, the extent of the area to be treated, the surgeon’s experience and the patient’s expectations.
The definitive results of a labiaplasty may be visible after several weeks, or even months, once the swelling has gone down completely.
Are there risks or complications with labiaplasty?
The most common complications are separation of the sutures, blood clots, excessive bleeding and infection of the wound. If you experience one of these symptoms you must call your surgeon immediately.
Choosing a good surgeon and a good clinic greatly reduces these risks.
Labiaplasty recovery
Recovery time after a labiaplasty varies, but generally you can expect to return to your normal routine in about a week. You will have to avoid intense physical activity and sexual intercourse for a period of four to six weeks. It is essential to follow the post-operative instructions for a safe, effective recovery.
After a labiaplasty you can expect swelling and redness in the area for about two weeks. You must not exercise or have sexual intercourse for 6 weeks.
For the first 3 or 4 days you may have some spotting, and you will need to use sanitary towels.
Most women can go back to work 3-4 days after surgery.
The sutures dissolve on their own, so you will not have to return to the clinic to have them removed. You will, however, need to attend post-operative appointments.
Does labiaplasty affect sensitivity?
Reducing the tissue of the vaginal labia should have no impact on your sensitivity during sexual intercourse. The network of nerves runs throughout this area, so you are protected against loss of sensitivity.
You will feel some numbness after surgery, but it is temporary. Within a few days you will recover normal sensitivity in the area.
What should you avoid after a labiaplasty?
It is important to avoid exercise, vigorous activity and lifting weights for a month after surgery. By restricting these activities you reduce the risk of bleeding and swelling in the area.
Benefits of having a labiaplasty
- Improvement in sexual relations: the labiaplasty procedure does not affect the clitoris, so there should be no change in sexual sensation. On the contrary, after surgery women may experience better sensation.
- Improved quality of life: labiaplasty can mean improvements in a woman’s quality of life, because she will feel better during sexual relations, when exercising and even when wearing tight clothing.
Now that you know what a labiaplasty is and what you should know about the procedure, if you think you need this surgery, book an appointment with one of our specialists, who will determine whether you are a candidate. With realistic expectations and good health you will be able to have it.
