Labiaplasty
This is the most commonly performed vaginal rejuvenation procedure, usually conducted to reduce the length of the labia minora so they don’t hang below the hair-bearing labia majora. It is performed to reduce asymmetry either when the labia minora is longer than the labia majora, or more commonly, when both labia is too long that they twist, tug, or fall out of a bathing suit.
Depending on the case, your surgeon may recommend to perform the trim procedure where the extra tissue is removed and directly sewn up. An alternative is the wedge procedure where a natural border is maintained after a pie-shaped piece of tissue has been removed. At the same time, reduction of extra folds of the clitoral hood can also be done. For closure, absorbable sutures are usually utilized.
Preparation
Ahead of the surgery, patients may be advised to:
For 4 weeks prior the surgery, avoid supplements (like vitamin C, herbal supplements, and weight-loss supplements).
For 2 weeks prior to surgery, avoid blood thinners and medication such as NSAIDs.
For 8 hours prior to surgery, not have any food or liquid intake.
Especially the night before, get plenty of rest.
Healing and Recovery
Healing time takes at least 6 weeks, during which time most distorting swelling should disappear. For any residual swelling, recovery period can take up to 6 months.
We recommend our patients to rest and take it easy during this time, avoiding any movements that may cause strain to the treatment area to prevent any complications. The following week after the surgery, swelling and pain can be reduced by icing with a cold pack sandwiched between the patient’s underpants and an elastic garment.
Wearing tampons or having sexual intercourse can be resumed after at least 4-6 weeks.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Following health and safety guidelines, your plastic surgeon may advise you to provide thorough information on your medical history. In this time of COVID-19, labiaplasty is considered a high-risk procedure and requires a negative PCR swab result prior to surgery.