Your Labiaplasty Questions Answered
If you are curious about labiaplasty, you are not alone—the procedure is becoming more and more common over recent years. There are many common misconceptions about labiaplasty, and patients often have similar questions during their consultations. Here are some of the basics you should know about the procedure.
What is the Labiaplasty Procedure Like?
Labiaplasty is an outpatient surgery that can be completed in an hour or less. While a labiaplasty can be completed under local anesthesia, IV sedation or general anesthesia are also options.
Are Labiaplasty and Vaginoplasty the same?
Labiaplasty is the alteration of the external genitalia, in particular the labia minora. Vaginoplasty is a separate procedure and is alteration of the vagina itself. It is best performed with a laser procedure known as FemTouch, which is intended to treat vaginal health concerns. (we do not offer this procedure as we feel it is best performed by a Gynecologist). Labiaplasty, however, is a surgical procedure which reduces or reshapes the outer labia for cosmetic reasons or to make patients more comfortable. Labiaplasty can help patients relieve discomfort caused when the labia minora protrudes past the labia majora, resulting in pain or discomfort when wearing certain clothing, having intercourse, or inserting a tampon.
What is recovery like after Labiaplasty?
Recovery after labiaplasty is relatively simple. Patients are up and walking the same day as their surgery, but should wear loose clothing and avoid friction in the area as much as possible. Most patients take about 2-3 days away from work or school after their labiaplasty to rest and recover. In the early stages of recovery, swelling and itching are both common; these symptoms typically peak at 2-3 days after the surgery and subside within a week. During the first 18-24 hours after your surgery, you will likely be numb in the treated area. Once this subsides, ibuprofen alone is typically sufficient to keep comfortable. Showers and sitz (Epson salt) baths are both permitted through the recovery period, and stitches will dissolve. It is important to avoid intercourse or tampons for six weeks after surgery and refrain from exercise or activities including cycling, horseback riding, motorcycles, etc. for at least three to six weeks. If itching persists, see your doctor as soon as possible, as this can be a sign of a yeast or bacterial infection or allergic reaction.
After labiaplasty, scarring should be minimal and well-concealed by the natural contours or wrinkles of the area. Often, labiaplasty patients find that even their OB/GYN does not notice any scarring or signs that they have had surgery.
Will Labiplasty Affect Intercourse?
For many labiaplasty patients, their increased self-confidence and reduced labial tissue improves their experience with intercourse. Sensation should not be negatively affected whatsoever and in many cases is improved following labiaplasty. Throughout the procedure, your surgeon will take care to avoid causing any injury to the clitoris to prevent damage or loss of sensitivity. It is important to avoid intercourse for at least six weeks after labiaplasty to ensure you have fully healed.
Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about labiaplasty, schedule a consultation with Dr. Mahabir, or Dr. Kurtovic. Call Tucson Plastic Surgery in Tucson, Arizona at (520) 751-1225 or contact us online to schedule your appointment.
