10 Things to Know About Labiaplasty

1. Labiaplasty: What is it?

Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that modifies the labia minora (inner lips) or labia majora (outer lips) of the female genitalia, primarily aiming to reduce their size or reshape them. While often performed for aesthetic reasons, this procedure can also be considered to alleviate discomfort or issues related to excessively large or asymmetrical labia. Although considered a simple and safe operation, it's crucial to be informed about potential risks and complications by discussing them with a qualified healthcare professional before making a decision.

 

2. Why have a labiaplasty?

Many reasons might lead a woman to consider labiaplasty, a surgical procedure to modify the labia. A common aesthetic reason is to reduce or reshape the size of the labia to improve their physical appearance. This can be a source of discomfort for women who want to wear tight clothing or swimwear, or participate in physical activities such as cycling or horseback riding. Additionally, labiaplasty can relieve pain and irritation caused by excessively large or asymmetrical labia, which can result from friction during physical activity.

 

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3. Is labiaplasty medically necessary?

For most people, labiaplasty isn't medically necessary. It's primarily a cosmetic procedure chosen by patients who are uncomfortable with the appearance of their vulva.

These insecurities stem from cultural messages and media portrayals, particularly pornography.

However, sometimes labiaplasty is medically necessary.

It's medically necessary if your labia minora are "sucked in" or "pulled in" to the vagina during sexual activity. This can cause painful epidermal lesions on the vulva.

This means activities like wearing underwear or swimwear, walking, running, cycling, or even sitting can cause pain or irritation.

Pregnancy and aging can lead to elongation of the labia, making the procedure necessary later in life.

 

4. What are the contraindications of labiaplasty?

While labiaplasty is generally considered a safe and simple surgical procedure, certain contraindications should be considered before deciding to undergo it. Women with blood clotting disorders or those taking anticoagulants may not be eligible due to a higher risk of bleeding. Similarly, those with active genital infections will need to wait for their recovery before undergoing labiaplasty. Lastly, women with a history of psychiatric disorders such as depression or anxiety may be encouraged to discuss this with a qualified healthcare professional before making a decision.

 

5. Labiaplasty side effects

Like any surgery, labiaplasty carries risks.

Here are the main risks:

  • Decreased vulvar sensitivity
  • Chronic dryness
  • Numbness
  • Scarring that causes painful vaginal intercourse
  • Including hemorrhages, hematomas, and infections.

Even if some women choose to significantly reduce the length of their vaginal lips, excessive resection or removal of skin can hinder their function of protecting the vaginal opening.

 

6. Are labiaplasty results guaranteed?

Labiaplasty aims to reduce or reshape the external genital lips in women to improve their appearance. While gaining popularity, many women wonder if the results will meet their expectations. In reality, no absolute guarantee can be given regarding the results of this cosmetic surgery, as each body is unique and reacts differently to the procedure. However, generally, most women are satisfied with the outcome and the appearance of their labia after the operation. Choosing an experienced and qualified surgeon is crucial to minimize risks and optimize results.

 

7. Who performs a labiaplasty?

A qualified plastic surgeon is necessary to perform a labiaplasty, a surgical procedure to modify the labia. Plastic surgeons have expertise in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the body, including the genitals. However, not all are specifically trained in labiaplasty, so it's crucial to find a surgeon with specific experience and training in this procedure. Gynecologists may also be trained to perform labiaplasty, but it's important to ensure they have received adequate training and have experience in cosmetic surgery.

 

8. Does labiaplasty require special preparation?

Labiaplasty, like any surgical procedure, requires thorough preparation to minimize the risk of complications and ensure optimal results. Before the procedure, the surgeon will provide specific instructions on preparations for labiaplasty. This may include guidelines on diet, hydration, medication, and activity restrictions. It's crucial to follow these instructions meticulously to ensure the body is ready for the procedure and to avoid any potential complications. Patients should also ensure their overall health is stable and there are no contraindications to surgery.

 

9. How is the procedure performed?

There are two main types of procedures to treat the labia minora: edge resection and corner resection. Both are typically performed under local anesthesia. The procedure usually takes about 45 minutes.

  FAQ Labiaplastie

Edge resection involves trimming the "excess" edges of the labia minora, similar to a haircut.

Corner resection preserves the original labial edges by cutting strips of skin from the center of the labia minora, rejoining the remaining skin with absorbable sutures.

Procedures for treating the labia majora are generally of two types:

  • Tissue excision or liposuction on labia majora that are longer or fuller than desired
  • Labia majora lipofilling: Injection of fat or another filler material to plump up lips that aren't as full as desired

 

10. Post-operative care: What to expect after labiaplasty?

The labia will be sore and swollen after the procedure. For easier recovery, it is strongly recommended that you take at least 3 to 7 days off work after your surgery, as advised by your surgeon.

To ensure better management, most doctors prescribe antibiotics to limit the risk of infection, as well as anti-inflammatories to relieve pain. If no anti-inflammatory medication is prescribed, it is strongly recommended to use over-the-counter anti-inflammatories. This will ensure better pain relief.

Cosmetic surgeons and gynecologists generally advise those recovering from the procedure to:

  • Wear loose clothing to avoid friction and excessive pain.
  • Take salt baths or sitz baths to relieve pain.
  • Avoid exercise and strenuous activities.
  • It is recommended to avoid tampons and abstain from sexual activity for 4 to 6 weeks.

To relieve pain and reduce swelling, it is advisable to lie down with your buttocks elevated.

 

What is the coverage for labiaplasty?

Labiaplasty, commonly called nymphoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that aims to reduce the hypertrophy of the labia minora in women. This procedure is commonly performed by a specialized gynecologist, using different techniques such as the longitudinal method. After the procedure, a healing period of several weeks is necessary and it is crucial to scrupulously follow the post-operative instructions to avoid any infection and promote rapid recovery. The results of labiaplasty can be remarkable, with smaller and better-proportioned labia minora, and scars are practically invisible.

To obtain more information on the cost and insurance coverage for labiaplasty, it is important to know that each case is unique and must be evaluated individually. It is therefore ideal to consult a qualified gynecologist specializing in intimate surgery offering a longitudinal technique for the reduction of the labia minora. This will allow you to discuss the different treatment options as well as the associated financial coverage. The cost of labiaplasty may vary depending on the technique used, the complexity of the procedure, and the location of the medical practice. Generally, this procedure is not covered by social security, but some insurance companies may partially or fully reimburse the costs depending on the terms of the contract.  

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