Often, women considering labiaplasty find it difficult to discuss their concerns or ask questions about the procedure. We understand the sensitive nature of the procedure, and our practice ensures that patients feel comfortable throughout their experience. In this blog post, we help get the conversation started by answering some of the most common questions about the procedure and what to expect during recovery.
Labiaplasty FAQs
Why do women get labiaplasty?
Women choose to get labiaplasty for various reasons, including discomfort or pain during physical activities such as exercise, everyday irritation or chafing, self-consciousness about the labia’s appearance, or discomfort during sexual activity. You can see how the procedure changes the appearance of the labia in these labiaplasty before and after photos.
What happens during a labiaplasty procedure?
During labiaplasty surgery, Dr. Sinno gives patients several options for anesthesia, from general anesthesia, IV sedation, oral sedation with local anesthesia, or just a local anesthetic. He most commonly uses the wedge technique, which nearly eliminates visible scar lines and won’t result in pigmentation changes. He then removes excess tissue from the labia minora and reshapes them to achieve the desired size and appearance. Most importantly, this technique allows the labia reduction in both length and protrusion (projection) at the same time. He uses very fine, absorbable sutures.
Does labiaplasty affect sensation?
Successful labiaplasty procedures avoid scarring the clitoris, and reducing sensation during sexual intercourse is rare. In fact, many women say sensation is enhanced after undergoing labiaplasty, in part because they feel less self-conscious. The wedge labiaplasty technique can be designed to tighten the introitus (vaginal opening) if desired.
Is labiaplasty covered by insurance?
Cosmetic procedures, in general, are not covered by health insurance. Even though labiaplasty includes benefits such as reducing pain during intercourse or certain physical activities like bike riding, it’s usually considered an aesthetic procedure.
How long is recovery after labiaplasty?
Patients can usually return home on the same day as the surgery. Recovery time varies, but most women are able to return to a non-physical job or school in 2 days. You can expect swelling to resolve 2 to 3 weeks after the procedure (applying an ice pack covered in a clean cloth helps minimize swelling and discomfort). You should postpone strenuous exercise for 4 weeks and sexual intercourse for 6 weeks after the surgery.
What are the potential risks of labiaplasty?
As with any surgery, there are risks associated with labiaplasty, such as bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing, and scarring. Very rarely, some women may experience changes in sensation after the surgery.
How much does labiaplasty cost?
The cost of labiaplasty in the Baltimore area varies, depending on the extent of the procedure, the training and experience of the plastic surgeon, the technique used, and other factors. We provide patients with a price quote after your consultation. Once you have an estimate, we offer financing for interested patients who qualify.
Is labiaplasty the same thing as vaginal rejuvenation?
Vaginal rejuvenation is a term that includes several types of procedures, including nonsurgical treatments. Unlike those treatments, labiaplasty is a surgical procedure dealing with the outer appearance of the genital area. I wrote about the differences between vaginal rejuvenation and labiaplasty in a previous blog post.
Are the changes considered permanent?
The results of labiaplasty are typically permanent, but the appearance of the labia may slightly change due to aging or weight fluctuations.
If you’re in the Columbia area and considering plastic surgery such as labiaplasty, whether you’re from Ellicott City, Baltimore, MD, or beyond, we welcome you to request a consultation with us using the online form. You can also contact our two convenient offices by phone at (410) 884-4200 (Ellicott City) or (410) 751-2348 (Westminster).
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