At Advanced Liposuction Center, we find that women may be reluctant to talk about irregularities in the labia.  Our Monroeville plastic surgeons want to reassure our clients that there is no need to suffer discomfort. Labia sizes vary greatly among women.  Enlarged labia minora (inner vagina lips) and labia majora (outer vagina lips) are not uncommon. Genetics, childbirth and aging can all contribute to laxity of vaginal tissues. Conditions such as protruding, enlarged or misshapen labia, although not harmful, may cause discomfort when wearing undergarments and during sexual intercourse.

Safely Making Changes

Our expert plastic surgeons are able to trim labial tissue into a natural-looking, complementary shape that will relieve discomfort and improve appearance. The procedure is performed in our Cranberry Township office suite. We use mild sedation and local anesthesia. It takes about one hour to do. The procedure itself is not painful but you may experience some mild discomfort and soreness after the surgery. We will discuss what to expect post-operatively and ensure that you have everything you need for a comfortable recovery. We will also prescribe an antibiotic ointment to prevent any infection from developing. Patients will need a driver to take them home after the surgery. We recommend you take 1-2 days off from work to rest before resuming normal activities. You should not lift heavy items or exercise for at least 2 weeks after the procedure.

What You Should Know

Below are some facts about labiaplasty that most patients want to know:

  • Labiaplasty does not result in decreased sensation during sexual intercourse. You should wait 4 weeks after surgery before engaging in sexual relations, however. During the 4-week period, you will need to be very gentle with the labia tissue because small sutures are used which will gradually dissolve.
  • You can still deliver a baby vaginally if you have had labiaplasty.
  • Women who are currently pregnant or nursing are not good candidates for labiaplasty.

How long do labiaplasty results last?

The goal of labiaplasty during reduction surgery is to provide long-lasting results. If issues don’t arise, you might never require this operation again. Over time, enhancement labiaplasty with fat or filler injections can require more “touch-ups.”

You should be aware that your labiaplasty might be impacted if you decide to have children after your procedure. Many people decide to postpone getting their labiaplasty until they are finished having children.

Is labiaplasty reversible?

Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that permanently alters the labia, so it is generally not reversible. The procedure involves removing excess tissue from the labia minora (inner vaginal lips) to reshape them or reduce their size. Once this tissue is removed, it cannot be replaced.

It’s important for individuals considering labiaplasty to understand that it is a permanent surgical procedure and to carefully weigh the potential risks and benefits before proceeding.

Can labiaplasty correct scarring or tissue damage from previous trauma?

Labiaplasty is primarily performed to reshape or reduce the size of the labia minora (inner vaginal lips) and is not typically intended to correct scarring or tissue damage from previous trauma. However, in some cases, a labiaplasty procedure may be part of a comprehensive treatment plan to address scarring or tissue damage in the genital area.

If you have experienced trauma or injury to the labia that has resulted in scarring or tissue damage, it’s important to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon or gynecologist who specializes in genital reconstruction. They can assess your specific situation and determine the most appropriate treatment options for addressing your concerns

How does smoking affect the outcome of labiaplasty?

Smoking can have a negative impact on the outcome of labiaplasty and increase the risk of complications. Here’s how smoking can affect the procedure and recovery:

  1. Delayed healing: Smoking can impair blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues, which are essential for proper wound healing. This can lead to delayed healing of the incision sites, increasing the risk of infection and other complications.
  2. Increased risk of infection: Smoking weakens the immune system, making the body less able to fight off infections. This can increase the risk of developing an infection at the surgical site following labiaplasty.
  3. Poor scarring: Smoking can interfere with collagen production, which is essential for proper wound healing and the formation of healthy scars.

If you want to learn if this procedure is right for you, schedule a free consultation at any of our Pittsburgh area offices by calling: 724-683-7581 today.