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Labiaplasty

 
A labiaplasty improves the look and function of the labia; the lips of the vaginal opening. The labia minora is the inner flap of skin that covers the clitoris and vagina. The labia majora is the portion of the labia on the outside of the body. The labia can become loose or stretched through sexual activity, hormones, childbirth or with age. In some cases the excess skin can present hygiene problems or make sexual intercourse and other activities uncomfortable. With a labiaplasty, the extra skin is removed and the labia reshaped into a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Labiaplasty Photo Gallery
Labiaplasty Video Gallery
 
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What are some of the common benefits of labiaplasty?

Labiaplasty can help women who experience pain, irritation, self-consciousness, hygiene issues or sexual dysfunction due to an enlarged labia.
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What will happen at the initial consultation?

During your initial consultation you can discuss what problems you are experiencing and give the doctor your detailed medical history. Your doctor must check to see if you have other vaginal issues such as general pain in the pelvic area or trouble urinating.
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How is a labiaplasty done?

The surgeon removes (with scalpel, radiofrequency cauterizing or laser) excess tissue of the labia minora. The labia majora, on the outside of the body, can be reduced with either surgery or liposuction if needed.
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At what age can labiaplasty be done?

There are no age requirements but you may want to wait until after having children because this can stretch the labia.
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How long does labiaplasty take?

A labiaplasty procedure takes 1-2 hours to complete.
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Do I have to stay in the hospital?

No hospital stay is required, but you will need someone to care for you after the labiaplasty procedure.
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How much pain is there?

There is some discomfort and pain after this procedure, comparable to the tenderness one feels after giving birth. Medication and rest will keep you fairly comfortable after your labiaplasty.
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What can I expect after a labiaplasty?

You will be swollen and experience some pain, as mentioned. The doctor may require you to wear supportive undergarments.
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What is the recovery period like?

During your recovery feminine hygiene products, vibrators and sexual intercourse must be avoided for 3-8 weeks to facilitate healing. You may return to work in 2-5 days. Strenuous activity can be resumed 2-3 weeks later.
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What is the long-term outcome like for most people?

The results are considered fairly permanent. However it is possible for the labia to be stretched again by pregnancy or sexual activity.
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Ideal Candidate

  • Experiences impairment in normal activities due to enlarged labia
  • Someone who has sexual dysfunction or pain from labia
  • Not planning to become pregnant in the future
  • Would like to improve the appearance of the labia
  • Has realistic expectations
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Risks

  • Scarring
  • Infection
  • Asymmetry of the labia
  • Pigmentation changes
  • An increased/decreased sense of feeling in that area
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Labiaplasty Costs

Labia surgery prices range from $3,500-$11,000.
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Choosing a Doctor

It is very important that you select a physician adequately trained and experienced in labiaplasty. We strongly recommend that you consider choosing a surgeon who is board certified by the American Board of Medical Specialties. See our Physician Locator feature to find a surgeon in your area, including detailed profile information for many of the listed doctors. Also read How to Select a Plastic Surgeon for a more detailed discussion on choosing the right doctor.
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Questions to ask your doctor

  1. Are the desired results I described realistic?
  2. Where is the surgery performed? How long will the procedure take?
  3. What kind of anesthesia is used?
  4. How much does it cost?
  5. What is your experience in performing this procedure? (How long has he/she performed this procedure, and how many has he/she performed in the past year?)
  6. What percentage of patients have had significant complications? (The physician should disclose this information to you.)
  7. Will you repeat or correct procedures if it does not meet agreed upon goals? And if the procedure must be corrected, will I be charged again? (The physician should provide you with his/her policy on this issue.)
  8. May I see "before and after" photos of recent patients? The physician should provide many photos of recent patients.
  9. May I have the names and contact information for several recent patients? (Follow up to get first-hand information on the procedure and the surgeon.)
  10. Could I observe the exact procedure I am considering before I decide to have the surgery? (Either on videotape or ask to view one in real life.)
  11. Should I have blood drawn ahead of time in case I need a transfusion
  12. What should I expect post-operatively, in terms of soreness, what to watch for, medication, bathing, and level of activity?
  13. Who will be assisting during the surgery? What are their qualifications? (Does the plastic surgeon perform the entire surgery?)
  14. Have you ever had your malpractice insurance coverage denied, revoked, suspended?
  15. Do you offer patient financing?
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Be sure to:

  • Tell your doctor about any allergies you have to foods, drugs, environmental elements.
  • Tell your doctor about all medications you are taking, both prescription and non-prescription.
  • Carefully follow any instructions your surgeon gives you regarding eating and drinking, smoking, and vitamins.
  • Avoid aspirin and aspirin-containing medicines for two weeks prior to surgery. Also avoid anti-inflammatory medicines such as Nuprin, Motrin or Advil. Also avoid herbal supplements like St. John’s Wort, gingko biloba, some types of Chinese black mushrooms and other natural substances or foods that may thin the blood.
  • Try to schedule surgery at a time other than your menstrual period.
  • Arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery and help you for a few days afterward, if needed.


The information on this web site is only intended as an introduction to this procedure. This information should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed nor as a guarantee of the result. The best method of determining your options is to consult qualified surgeons who are able to answer specific questions related to your situation.
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How do I finance this procedure?

Did you know that 29% of all Americans have considered having an elective procedure? Of those, 60% would schedule a procedure immediately if financing was available. With iEnhance's patient financing options, money no longer has to be the barrier between you and your new image. By filling out our on-line application you can qualify for a loan in as little as 30 seconds.

Find a doctor that specializes in labiaplasty
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At iEnhance, find information on top plastic surgery procedures such as breast augmentation, liposuction, facelift, tummy tuck, BOTOX ® Cosmetic, eyelid surgery, thermage, rhinoplasty; as well as teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, and other cosmetic dentistry procedures. Locate a plastic surgeon, cosmetic surgeon, cosmetic dentist, or specialist today!

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