Labiaplasty

Many women feel self conscious about the appearance of their genitalia. Some even have symptoms that make it difficult to wear tight pants, exercise, ride on a motorcycle or bicycle, or enjoy intercourse without pain. Luckily, there is a simple surgery to improve both the appearance and symptoms related to an over-sized or asymmetrical labia. The procedure is usually done under local anesthesia in the office after you have taken oral medication for pain and anxiety. Alternatively, some patients choose to use a surgery center where IV anesthesia is used. There will be discomfort and swelling for 1-2 weeks, which is controlled with prescription pain medication. Depending on your job you may be able to go back to work in as few as two of three days. Stitches dissolve on their own within a few weeks after surgery. You should refrain from resuming all normal activities for 4-6 weeks after surgery.

More Information

Some our women are born with an enlarged labia minora (inner lips). Women also sometimes have a change in the appearance of their labia after childbirth, traumatic injury, or with aging. We often see patients who experience embarrassment and discomfort in tight clothing, with exercise, and with sexual intercourse.

Dr. Dana uses labiaplasty surgery to reduce the size of the labia to alleviate discomfort and improve the appearance of the labia. The procedure can be extended to the clitoral hood without a change to the nerves and with techniques designed to produce minimal scarring. In most cases, the scars cannot even be seen after several weeks. You will likely have swelling and discomfort for a few days to weeks after surgery.

Risks

Any surgery carries with it a risk of infection or bleeding. Serious infection and bleeding are extremely rare with labiaplasty. Additional risks with include asymmetry, delayed wound healing, and excessive scarring.