(Vaginal Rejuvenation)
Labiaplasty is a surgery performed to increase or decrease the size of the labia (the folds on each side of the vagina). This surgery is performed to reduce pain or discomfort or as part of gender-affirming surgery, or for cosmetic reasons.
However, it is not advised for girls <18 years because the labia continue to develop into early adulthood.
It is completely normal to have these noticeable skin folds, and, in most cases, it does not cause any problems, and hence labiaplasty is rare.
If you are thinking to have a labiaplasty, discuss it with your doctor.
Symptoms of Labial Hypertrophy
Most women do not have any symptoms in case of more labial skin than usual (Labial Hypertrophy).
- Irritation
- Discomfort
- Pain
- Chronic infections
Some people may experience the above symptoms during exercise and sexual intercourse.
Why is a labiaplasty performed?
Medical Reasons
- To reduce the size as excess labial tissue can get pinched or tugged and cause discomfort and irritation during physical activity and intercourse.
- To improve hygiene as excess tissue can harbor bacteria leading to urinary tract infections.
Cosmetic Reasons
- To restore a youthful look after childbirth or aging.
- To reduce asymmetry (uneven shape)
- To eliminate the visual lines
- To improve comfort, confidence, and sexual well-being
Gender-affirming Surgery
In gender-affirming surgery, labia is created using existing genital tissue. Labiaplasty can be performed before or after other reconstruction surgeries.
Causes of Labial Hypertrophy
More labial skin than usual can be due to-
- Age
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Changes in your weight
- Genetics
Labiaplasty: Preparing for Surgery
There is no specific preparation before the surgery. Your doctor will explain to you about the procedure and things to follow after the surgery.
You will be asked to fast before the surgery. Labiaplasty is done under anesthesia, and the procedure takes about one hour.
The doctor will make small incisions to remove excess tissue and reduce and reshape the labia.
Once the anesthesia is worn off, you can go home after the surgery.
What to Expect After the Surgery?
You may be given estrogen cream to apply on the stitches. The cream helps to heal the wound.
- Do not take a shower the first 24 hours after the surgery.
- First day after surgery, use ice packs on the area for 15 minutes at a time. Repeat every 1 – 2 hours.
- Start sitz baths a day after the surgery in a tub of warm water for 10 – 15 minutes 2 times a day for 7-10 days.
- Wear cotton undergarments and loose-fitting clothes to prevent irritation.
- Your doctor will prescribe painkillers in case of any pain or discomfort.
- A topical gel is given to apply on the outer vaginal area (used to numb the skin to help reduce the pain and discomfort).
- Do not do any physical activity like sports, exercise, or swimming for 4-6 months after surgery.
- Do not have sexual activity or use tampons for 4-6 months after surgery.
When to Call the Doctor?
There may be some bleeding or spotting after surgery which is normal as the wound heals.
Consult your doctor immediately if you experience the following:
- Heavy Bleeding
- Fever
- Separation of the incision
- Pus or drainage from the stitched area
- Black or blue discoloration or bruising of the skin.
- Severe pain
Follow-up appointment is 2 – 4 weeks after surgery.
