Labia Reduction

Labiaplasty & Breast Enlargement
Psychologic Concerns
Review of Complications

by Peter T. Pacik, MD, FACS

Introduction:

A number of medical terms describe the problem of enlarged labia minora such as labiaplasty, labia reduction, cosmetic vaginal surgery, vaginal rejuvenation, large labia reduction, vaginal lip reduction, female genital plastic surgery and Alter procedure.

Labia Anatomy:

The "lips” surrounding the vagina are divided into the larger outer labia majora and the thinner more delicate inner labia minora. At times, the labia minora may be excessively enlarged or asymmetrical, which is a source of embarrassment to patients. Enlarged labia minora are more easily irritated with tight clothing and also a problem with swelling and irritation due to trauma during intercourse.

Surgical reduction of the labia minora helps achieve a more normal appearance and lessens the potential for trauma. Surgery takes about 1 hour and can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. It is usually done as an outpatient.

Most women are unaware that corrective surgery is available for this condition. Even doctors are often not knowledgeable in this area. Recently, a women's obstetrician belittled the deformity despite considerable distress of the patient. In the past, patients have set up a consultation for something else because of their embarrassment and only discuss this during the privacy of a consultation. This is not necessary because our office staff fully understands the procedure and also understands the psychological trauma related to enlarged labia. Nowadays, there is sufficient knowledge about the condition of labia enlargement, and the benefits of the surgical correction, that our patients are comfortable making their appointments.

Before and After Labiaplasty Photographs

Due to the sensitive nature of our before and after labiaplasty photographs, we would be happy to show you these photographs during your consultation.

Labioplasty Surgery Incisions

The procedure involves incisions to remove the excess tissue or to even the edges. The incision is often inconspicuous.

Recovery

You will spend a few hours in our surgi-center and then you can go home. Postoperative discomfort is generally managed with light analgesics such as Ibuprofen. Showering is permitted on the evening of surgery. Often there is minimal to no bruising for this procedure. You may experience mild to moderate swelling the first 2 or 3 days. You can return to work when you are comfortable, usually within 2 to 3 days.

The sutures are self-dissolving and do not need to be removed. Recovery is rapid, usually 3 to 5 days. Intercourse should be delayed for a minimum of 6 weeks to avoid disrupting the suture line, and 8 weeks is even safer to allow for full healing. Proper lubrication during intercourse will help prevent trauma to the surgical area.

Results

You can expect to have significant improvement in comfort, especially in certain clothing such as snug pants. I am often told that this procedure improves sexual relations by eliminating the psychologic and physical discomfort that was present prior to surgery. The results are permanent.

The Best Candidate for Labioplasty

Patients who have an elongation or redundancy of the labia minora, which causes psychological concerns and/or physical trauma.

Contact Us for More Information

For confidential personalized information and advice, please complete our information request form or call us at 1-800-640-0290 during business hours: Monday through Thursday 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Friday 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. EST. LATE AFTERNOON & EVENING HOURS NOW AVAILABLE .