Is Labiaplasty Right for Me?

If you’re feeling self-conscious about your labia, you’re not alone. Many women aren’t sure how they “are supposed to look” down there. They might feel self-conscious if the labia minora (inner lips) hang past the labia majora (outer lips). Frankly, there are no “normal” labia. However, some women are truly bothered by their appearance and how the hanging labia feel during day to day activities.

Women did nothing to cause this – it is in our genetics. Long labia are not something that happen as a result of sexual activity or anything like that. It is simply the way some women were made.

While long or multiple folds of the labia minora are normal, some women find their longer labia minora skin peeking out from underwear or bathing suits. This extra skin can cause discomfort while swimming, running, bicycle riding, or during sex. The labia can even get twisted and painful, even during regular daily activities. The skin may stick together, making it difficult when you use the restroom or have your periods.

But just because you have long labia, does not mean you have to live with them if they are bothersome. We can do something about it. You can have a better quality of life, and Labiaplasty might be the way to do that.

Labiaplasty is a plastic surgery procedure you may be hearing more about because more women are asking for it. There was a 39% increase in the number of these procedures from 2015 to 2016, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. But although this procedure is becoming more common, vagina surgery isn’t for everyone. Here is what to know when asking, “Is Labiaplasty right for me?”

What is Labiaplasty?

At Tannan Plastic Surgery, a Labiaplasty typically involves local anesthesia and some form of sedation. Your plastic surgeon will trim some of the labia minora tissue, allowing the inner lips to sit more neatly tucked within the labia majora, the outer lips. Learn more by visiting our Labiaplasty page here.

This type of vagina surgery can be performed often in just one hour. Dr. Tannan discusses the procedure in detail and what to expect from Labiaplasty during your consultation.

Who benefits from Labiaplasty?

If you notice chafing, extra trapping of moisture or difficulty with your labia minora in clothing and swimwear, Labiaplasty or vagina surgery is worth considering. Labia minora range from 2 to 10 centimeters in length and 0.7 to 5 centimeters wide. It’s quite common for the labia minora to stick out past the outer lips of the vagina and look very different.

Labiaplasty benefits those who feel self-conscious about overhanging labia minora or feel they want a change. We understand how uncomfortable this topic can be to discuss with your plastic surgeon. Our team of all-female staff is happy to talk with you about vagina surgery and whether it’s right for you.

When should I plan to have vagina surgery?

The main question most women ask about this procedure is how it will affect their future lifestyle, especially when it comes to sex or having children. As you tell us your plans and goals, we will discuss the best timing for your procedure.

Aside from that, Labiaplasty surgery can be done at any time, and it will not require repeating as you age or have children. Studies show that this procedure does not affect a woman’s sex drive or ability to reach orgasm. Scarring is minimal and often unnoticeable due to the way the skin folds.

What is recovery like after a Labiaplasty?

The downtime required for you to heal from vagina surgery is generally four to six weeks. We recommend you take the first week off from work so you can remain home to rest and ice the surgical site.

You should wear loose pants for about a month and avoid tampons for your first menstrual cycle after the procedure. We ask that you wait four to six weeks after the procedure before you hit the gym or do more strenuous things.

Visit our Plastic Surgery Recovery Calculator for more information on the recovery timeline after Labiaplasty. Be sure to also check out Dr. Tannan’s article on Labiaplasty recovery that was featured by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

How much does Labiaplasty cost?

This is one of the most common questions we get about vagina surgery! That’s why we put together a helpful resource, the Plastic Surgery Cost Calculator. Here you’ll find an estimate of average costs for Labiaplasty, as well as other popular procedures like Tummy Tuck, Liposuction and Breast Augmentation.

Keep in mind that the Cost Calculator is only an estimate. When you come in for a consultation with Dr. Tannan, she develops a personalized plan to address your specific needs.

Are you ready to enjoy increased confidence and feel comfortable in your own skin? Contact us for a consultation so we can answer all of your questions about Labiaplasty.