An Expert’s Thoughts on LABIAPLASTY
Having performed hundreds of labiaplasty surgeries since the year 2000, I have witnessed the benefits this procedure offers to women when performed with skill and experience. Below are answers to some FAQ’s for labiaplasty.
Why do women undergo labiaplasty?
Most of my patients seek to improve their daily comfort level in clothing, exercise and other activities as well as to improve their appearance.
Is labiaplasty a safe procedure?
Yes, when performed by a an experienced and meticulous plastic surgeon with interest in this particular area.
How long is the surgery?
Most cases take one hour in my practice.
Does one have to go to sleep?
No! The majority of my patients undergo local anesthesia alone and are fully awake for the procedure. Our ritual is to have patients apply numbing cream before surgery so they hardly feel the added numbing injections.
How long is the recovery?
I recommend 5-7 days of recovery time to help avoid shearing of the delicate tissues when they are most swollen. Full activity including exercise and intercourse are resumed at 4-6 weeks.
Is it painful?
Just about all of my patients report mild to moderate discomfort on the night of the surgery alone.
Can the area re-elongate?
As we age all tissues lose elasticity to some degree, but the labia do not regenerate.
Does it interfere with sex?
No! In fact my patients who come to me for discomfort and complaints of the labia inverting, shearing and hurting during and after sex, often report resolution of this problem. Also those who are self conscious of their appearance with their partners are very relieved.
Does insurance cover the procedure?
No, as it is considered a cosmetic surgery.
Can I lose sensitivity in the area?
This is always a concern and a possible risk that I have never encountered in my patients.
What is the difference between labia minora reduction and labia majora reduction?
The more commonly requested is the labia minora(inner labia) reduction. The outer labia(majora) can also be reduced or tucked if they are excessively hanging.
Is this considered “vaginal rejuvenation”?
Technically no! Labiaplasty does not include the vaginal(internal) tissues and is a surgery of the external vulvar tissues.
How old do you have to be to undergo labiaplasty?
Like any elective, cosmetic surgery I require the indivisual to be at least 18 years of age, mature and both physically and emotionally suited to undergo plastic surgery.