Female genitals come in many different shapes and sizes. Their appearance naturally changes over time, especially with childbirth and aging. Although there is no ‘right’ way for the genitals to look, many women are bothered by the appearance of an overly large or asymmetrical labia. For these individuals, labiaplasty can help reduce the size of a stretched or naturally large labia and create an appearance that is more pleasing to the patient.
For some women, this procedure is not just about cosmetics; but rather also about improving quality of life. It can reduce or eliminate recurring pain and restrictions that women with smaller labia do not cope with. Women with hypertrophy of the inner labia (labia minora) may experience extreme pain and discomfort when the inner lips extend beyond the outer lips. Every day activities – including exercise – can be a problem with an overly large labia. In addition, a large labia may also cause pain, complications, and embarrassment during sex.
What Is Labiaplasty?
Not to be confused with vaginal rejuvenation, labiaplasty is a cosmetic surgery used only to alter the appearance of the labia – or ‘lips’ – surrounding the vagina. The surgery can be performed on either the inner labia, the outer labia, or both. In general, this surgery is effective for altering either the labia’s size or shape, or even creating greater symmetry between either side.
Labiaplasty is usually performed with IV sedation or general anesthesia. Dr. Bose typically uses either the trim method or the wedge method. The first is the most common and is used to remove the edges of the inner labia where the tissue tends to be darkest. This method is often used to address a ‘long’ labia. The other method – the wedge method – is used to remove ‘bulk’ from the labia. It involves removing a wedge shape of tissue from the lower edge of the labia toward the crease that meets the outer labia.
Recovery
The recovery process following a labiaplasty is often easier than many patients expect. Despite being in a sensitive area, labiaplasty often yields little discomfort. In fact, the majority of swelling will subside in the average patient after just one week. However, most patients will need to care for the incision site as instructed by Dr. Bose and avoid sexual intercourse for a few weeks after surgery.
Are You A Candidate For Labiaplasty?
You might be a candidate for labiaplasty if you:
- Have irregularities in your inner or outer labia
- Have misshapen labia
- Have inner labia that have stretched or enlarged
- Have one side of the labia that is larger than the other
- Have long labia that protrude or hang
- Feel embarrassed to wear a swimsuit or expose your genitals to a partner as a result of the size of your labia
- Feel pain or discomfort as a result of the size of your labia
Communication is an important part of cosmetic surgery of any type. That is why it is important to choose a surgeon other women in Tampa know and trust. Dr. Bose understands the sensitivity of this procedure and will take every measure to ensure you are comfortable with the process and well-informed about the surgery and expected outcome. He will also want to ensure that you are undergoing labiaplasty as a result of your own personal preferences and desires – not those of another person.
If you are bothered by the size, shape, or overall appearance of your genitals, don’t suffer silently anymore. Let Dr. Bose help you achieve greater confidence. Call us today to schedule your labiaplasty consultation. Our practice serves the Tampa area. We look forward to serving you soon.