Vaginal rejuvenation has grown in popularity over the years as women make their comfort and confidence a priority. Labiaplasty is one way to feel more attractive by reducing the size and adjusting the shape of the labia minora or inner lips of the vagina. When the inner lips extend past the outer lips or are asymmetrical, it can increase self-consciousness, especially during intimacy.
If you are unhappy with how your labia looks, or it causes you discomfort during certain activities, a labiaplasty may be a good option for you. Here are few things to consider when it comes to this personal procedure:
1. Labia come in all shapes and sizes.
Big, small, long, short, plump, or skinny, every woman’s labia and vagina will look different. While there can be physical or functional reasons to undergo labiaplasty, it is often a matter of personal preference, aesthetics, and self-confidence. Some women are not happy with their labia being asymmetrical or protruding past the outer vaginal lips. You should feel comfortable with how your labia looks, and labiaplasty can help.
2. There can be many causes of labial enlargement.
There is nothing abnormal about you if you have enlarged labia. The vaginal lips can change due to aging, pregnancy, and childbirth, or other conditions. Vaginal delivery can cause the labia to stretch, and it may not return to its pre-delivery size. In addition, sometimes elongated or asymmetrical inner lips are hereditary, and you are simply born that way.
3. Surgery typically takes less than an hour.
Labiaplasty is a fairly quick procedure that is often performed on an outpatient basis. You will receive a local or general anesthetic, your inner vaginal lips will be shortened or reshaped, and then you will be on your way home to recover. It is a good idea to have someone available to drive you home and to help out with any strenuous activity for the first few days until you get back on your feet.
4. Results are often permanent.
Because surgery removes excess skin from the labia minora to make the vaginal lips smaller or shorter, the procedure typically only needs to be performed once. It is rare that the condition recurs, and additional surgery is needed in the future. It is not a surgery that is performed in several steps – everything is done at once.
5. Results improve over time.
While you will notice an immediate difference following surgery, it is important to remember that there will be some swelling and discomfort at first. As the swelling decreases and the area heals, you will begin to see the final results of your labiaplasty. It can take several weeks for all residual swelling to resolve, so be patient and know that you will continue to feel better with each passing day. The initial discomfort should pass within a week or so.
6. Reducing the size of the labia minora can improve how clothing fits.
If you have ever noticed a small bump or bulge in your genital area when wearing a bathing suit, underwear, or tight-fitting pants, this may be a protrusion of your labia minora. Shortening the inner vaginal lips can create a smoother appearance because the skin no longer extends past the outer lips. As a result, you can feel more confident and attractive in swimwear or lingerie, and during intimate moments.
7. Labiaplasty can enhance comfort.
When the inner lips of the vagina extend past the outer lips, it can cause discomfort when sitting in certain positions, exercising, or wearing form-fitting clothing. This can result in embarrassing irritation or chaffing. Following labiaplasty, the inner labia is tucked away, so there is nothing rubbing against your clothing or getting caught in zippers.
8. Sexual satisfaction may increase.
Engaging in sexual activity can be uncomfortable if you have longer labia. An enlarged labia minora can actually end up getting tucked into the vagina, causing discomfort and tears in the vulva skin. Trimming away excess skin can reduce the size of the inner vaginal lips and prevent this from occurring.
9. You can often return to normal activities within a few weeks.
Many women worry about how long recovery will take following labiaplasty. You will need to rest for the first few days after surgery to prevent strain to your genital area, but after a week or so, you can return to many of your normal activities, including work. However, you will need to take a break from exercising, wearing tampons, and engaging in sexual activity for at least a month to six weeks. Your surgeon will let you know when you are cleared to resume these activities.
10. Labiaplasty can be combined with other procedures.
Other surgical or non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation procedures such as vaginal tightening or an O shot may be performed at the same time if recommended and approved by your surgeon. A consultation can help you determine the best way to achieve your aesthetic and comfort goals.
Deciding if Labiaplasty is Right for You
If you are self-conscious about how your labia looks, or it interferes with your quality of life because of friction or how it moves during sexual intercourse, labiaplasty may be a good option for you. Before considering surgery, you should be in good health and abstain from smoking, as this can slow healing. Your surgeon will take the time to understand your individual needs and concerns in order to determine if you are a candidate for labiaplasty. Then, he or she will create a treatment plan aligned with your goals to enhance your genital satisfaction.
Boost Your Confidence with a Labiaplasty
Make your comfort and confidence a priority, especially when it comes to wearing clothes you love or engaging in intimate moments with a loved one.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Steve Vu at California Aesthetic Center or a plastic surgeon near you to discuss the benefits of labiaplasty and determine if it is the right procedure for you.
