Labiaplasty

Labiaplasty

A labiaplasty is the reduction or construction of a labia. The labia is part of the vulva, the external female genitalia. It consists of two skin folds (labia minora and labia majora) that protect the openings of the vagina and urethra. Women may opt to have this procedure for two primary reasons. 

1. Labia Reduction: While there is a wide range of what constitutes a “normal” sized labia, some women may want to alter the size and appearance of it. Some women may experience discomfort, physically or psychologically, because of the size of their labia. A labiaplasty reduces the size of the labia minora, the skin flaps that protect the opening to the vagina. This procedure is performed for aesthetic or functional reasons, depending on why the individual is choosing to have the procedure performed. 
2. Labia Construction: Others may opt for the construction of a labia as part of gender affirmation care. Individuals assigned male at birth who are transitioning may choose to have a labiaplasty performed to further affirm their gender identity. This procedure may be done in conjunction with or independently of a vaginoplasty, or the construction of a vagina.

 

As part of gender affirming surgery

For women undergoing a labiaplasty as part of gender-affirming care, their labia will be constructed using tissue from the penis. A labiaplasty is one step part of what is often referred to as bottom surgery for transgender individuals who are undergoing surgical gender affirming care. How the procedure goes will depend on the individual’s unique situation. 

Reduction

There are two methods of approaching a labiaplasty to reduce its size: the wedge or trim technique. 

The most common technique used is the trim method. In this procedure, your surgeon will create small incisions on the labia minora (inner labia) to remove the outer edge of the labia to make it even with the labia majora (outer labia). The outer edges of the labia minora are the darkest parts of the labia, making this method preferred by patients who are unhappy with the dark and potentially thick and rough edges of their labia.

Otherwise, your surgeon may opt for the wedge method, a newer approach to a labiaplasty. This procedure is better for patients with thinner, well-defined labia edges as the outer edges of the labia are relatively untouched during this procedure. During surgery, your surgeon will remove a V-shaped wedge from both sides of the labia minora before stitching the edges together. Patients may opt for this surgery because there is a less chance of visible scarring and can assist with natural tightening. 

Recovery

The specifics of recovery for a labiaplasty—based on whether it was performed for cosmetic reasons or as part of gender affirming surgery—may vary. However, with either, the recovery process may last for months. In the days and weeks following the procedure, you will experience some pain, discomfort, and swelling that will subside over time. These symptoms can be managed with ice packs and prescribed pain medication. Likely, your surgeon will advise that you refrain from any activity for a few weeks post-op. You’ll want to enlist in friends and family to assist you with day-to-day activities following your surgery and anticipate an extended healing period. Refrain from any activity and sexual activity for a few weeks. Other than limiting your activity, you’ll want to continue to maintain hygiene and closely follow any instructions given to avoid complications. 

Am I a candidate for a labiaplasty?

If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort from an enlarged labia, a labiaplasty can eliminate associated problems like twisting or pinching while wearing certain types of clothing or during physical activity. Labiaplasty can be a major step for individuals who are transitioning and choose to affirm their gender through surgical procedures. 

Labiaplasty in San Francisco, CA

Labiaplasty can empower a woman, helping her embrace confidence and pride in her femininity by freeing them from potential restrictions caused by an enlarged labia and allowing them to affirm themselves. Committed to respecting the natural beauty of the female body, Dr. Fan supports women in finding their desired labia size or aligning their bodies with their self-perception. If you’re interested in learning about whether a labiaplasty is right for you, contact 77 Plastic Surgery.