Labiaplasty (Labia Reduction Surgery)
By Houston, Texas Plastic Surgeon & Cosmetic Surgeon,
Dr. Mark Schusterman and Dr. Patrick Hsu
The labia minora are the “inner lips” that cover the female vaginal opening and clitoris. A large population of women can have excessively large labia minora as a result of pure genetics or frequently from the trauma of giving birth. Regardless of the cause, women can often experience a tremendous amount of discomfort combined with even pain during intercourse. Normal clothes such as panties and tight jeans become uncomfortable and can affect ones activities of daily living. Additionally, overly large labia minora can affect one’s self esteem and self confidence because the condition can be viewed as unattractive during intimate settings.
What is labiaplasty and who are good candidates?
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that is designed to remove the excess skin and can be a wonderful procedure for rejuvenating the vaginal area. Good candidates include those women who are self conscious or experience any discomfort from excessively large labia minora. Fully developed young women and adult women who are in good health make the most appropriate candidates. However, women who have any underlying medical conditions that would limit elective surgery may not be good candidates. Consult your plastic surgeon for more details.
Where is the surgery performed?
Labiaplasty can usually be performed with local anesthesia as an office procedure. Depending on the amount of skin that needs to be excised more difficult cases may require general anesthesia at our adjacent surgery center. The procedure typically takes one hour and recovery is about two weeks. Any discomfort is easily managed with pain medication by mouth. Because all stitches are dissolvable, there is no additional pain and fear associated with suture removal. Normal activities may be resumed within a week and sexual intercourse usually by three to four weeks. It is important to know that this procedure is not designed to enhance you sexual pleasure or satisfaction.
What should I expect during a consultation for labiaplasty?
First and foremost, you can expect complete confidentiality. We realize that this is a private and sensitive subject and our staff is committed to your privacy. During the consultation, our doctors will go over a complete medical history and take the time to understand your goals and expectations. The doctors will discuss reasonable and expected outcomes and work with you to explain the details of the procedure along with recovery, risks, costs and financing options.
