Labiaplasty in simpler terms is a cosmetic surgical procedure for female genital parts which is gaining importance nowadays due to increased aesthetic concerns. Labiaplasty is the surgery to the labium which cover the female genital parts. Occasionally these labia (labia majora and labia minora) grow in size (hypertrophy) and can cause aesthetic and functional concerns. Hence, Labiaplasty is performed to correct the size of the labia.
What are the causes of overgrowth of the labia ?
The exact cause of the overgrowth of labia minora and labia majora which cover the female genital parts but its suggested that genital piercing, strenuous exercising, cycling can cause the overgrowth during younger age. Also, the overgrowth may be because of the pregnancy and excess weight gain and then weight loss making the labia lose and wrinkled. If the labia grow more than 4cm it affects the functionality and aesthetics and requires surgical correction.
Who is a candidate for a labiaplasty procedure ?
Labiaplasty is performed in girls who have reached their sexual maturity (are above 18 years of age) and women who are affected with overgrowth of the labia. Most commonly the inner labia (labia minora) are surgically corrected. The women who desire to get a Labiaplasty should maintain good overall health.
When is a labiaplasty procedure not advised ?
A Labiaplasty is not advised in girls who haven’t reached their sexual maturity, women who are menstruating or pregnant women. The procedure is also contraindicated in patients who are suffering from any infections (fungal and bacterial) in an around the genital organs. One should have realistic expectations since Labiaplasty is a cosmetic procedure and not major corrections can be made.
How do you prepare for a labiaplasty procedure ?
Once you have decided to go ahead with the procedure your gynaecologist will do a routine overall examination, detailed history taking along with the physical examination of your genital parts. The doctor will take your medical history to know if you are on any medication which need to be reconsidered. The doctor might advise you to get some blood investigations before posting you for the procedure. If your treating doctor suspects any changes in your genitalia, he/she might suggest some investigations for the same. The doctor will also tell you the risks, benefits and outcome of the procedure. It is advised to ask your treating surgeon about the procedure in detail and clear any doubts if you have regarding the procedure.
Is labiaplasty procedure performed under anaesthesia ?
The procedure is most commonly performed under local anaesthesia and conscious sedation. Ask your treating surgeon about what type of anaesthesia will be used during your surgery.
What happens during labiaplasty procedure ?
After the administration of anaesthesia the surgeon carefully and precisely reduces the labia giving your genital parts a more aesthetic appearance. The technique depends on the surgical requirements and the surgeon’s choice. The techniques used could be a wedge technique, custom flask technique and deepithelization technique depending upon the type of reductions made. Ask your treating surgeon about the detailed description of the technique which will be suitable for your condition. After the surgical procedure is completed an antibacterial ointment will be applied at the site of the procedure. The doctor will ask you to routinely follow up after discharge from the hospital. Also use of sanitary pads, tampons, sexual activity should be delayed until approved by your treating surgeon. The recovery from a Labiaplasty takes about 1 week to completely resume normal activities but with the concern of your doctor you can resume work within a week and ten days.
What are the complications associated with the labiaplasty procedure ?
Labiaplasty is not a major surgical procedure, hence the complications are less grave. Complications could be related to the anaesthesia such as vomiting, sensation and gastric upset.
Complications are very few as in when related to the procedure. Some of them could be related to scarring after the surgery, bleeding and infection at the surgical site or delayed wound healing. Occasionally if the patients are not happy with the surgical procedure they may request for a re-surgery.
What is the outcome of labiaplasty procedure ?
Labiaplasty is a cosmetic procedure and is occasionally done to restore functionality which is affected due to overgrowth of labia. Labiaplasty also improves the psychological status and confidence in women who are conscious about aesthetics. It is important to have realistic expectations from the procedure as t can only do minor changes, also one should clear all the doubts about the procedure before planning for the surgery.
How to find cosmetic surgeons for labiaplasty procedure ?
Now you can find cosmetic surgeons for labiaplasty procedure from different hospitals and destinations on a single platform, Hinfoways. You can avail opinions from multiple cosmetic surgeons, cost estimates for labiaplasty procedure from different hospitals, compare things and then choose a cosmetic surgeon for labiaplasty procedure.
Find and choose a cosmetic surgeon for labiaplasty procedure on Hinfoways. Make an informed choice.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.