Labiaplasty

About This Procedure

Labiaplasty is a plastic surgery procedure that reshapes and resizes the outer vaginal lips (labia majora), inner labia (labia minora) or both. Labiaplasty helps restore the vaginal area's appearance. The procedure can relieve physical and psychological discomfort due to large labia that interfere with everyday activities, including exercise and sex.

Because labiaplasty involves operating on a woman's most intimate body part, it is crucial to find a qualified plastic surgeon. The plastic and reconstructive plastic surgeons at Franciscan Health are highly skilled at performing labiaplasty.

Why labiaplasty?

Genetics, or how you’re born, affects the size and shape of your labia. Some women have labia that are larger than normal. Throughout your life, factors such as pregnancy, weight fluctuations, hormonal changes and the natural aging process can change how the outer and inner labia look.

Women may experience low self-esteem and embarrassment when they have large, asymmetrical or unusually shaped vaginal lips. As a result, they may avoid sexual intercourse or wearing bathing suits and tight clothing. Other women experience chafing and skin irritation, especially during activities such as riding a bicycle or running.

Labiaplasty removes excess skin and tissue on the labia, eliminating pain and discomfort. After labiaplasty, women report feeling a boost in self-confidence. They find physical activities, including sex, more pleasurable and desirable.

About the labiaplasty procedure

Labiaplasty is an outpatient procedure, performed under local or general anesthesia. You’ll go home the same day.

During the procedure, your plastic surgeon will trim excess tissue, fat and skin from the inner and outer labia as needed to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing shape and size. The procedure also addresses any asymmetry. The goal is to create a more proportionate labia appearance.

Recovery from labiaplasty

Most people take one week off from work and their regular routine after labiaplasty. Common side effects include swelling and soreness. You can manage these effects by applying a cold compress and taking oral medication prescribed by your plastic surgeon.

As you recover, you should wear loose-fitting clothing to avoid irritating the treated area. You will need to avoid tampons and vigorous activity, including intercourse, for four to six weeks after surgery. Your surgeon can tell you when it is safe to resume these activities.

Some of the aesthetic results of labiaplasty are noticeable immediately after the procedure. It may take several months for the final results to become visible.

Who is a candidate for labiaplasty?

Ideal candidates for labiaplasty:

• Are unhappy or self-conscious about large or unusually shaped labia
• Experience physical discomfort (such as chafing, rashes and infections) due to the shape and size of their labia
• Do not smoke
• Are in good overall health
• Have realistic expectations of labiaplasty