Description
Due to the highly sensitive and personal nature of this procedure, Dr. Friedman has chosen to not to post photos of labiaplasties on his website, though we do have photos available at our office.
Labiaplasty (labioplasty, labia minora reduction) is a surgical procedure performed to relieve cosmetic and functional problems associated with enlarged or asymmetric labia. The procedure generally improves difficulties with self-consciousness, pain with intercourse, discomfort with athletic activities, and hygiene.
Dr. Friedman performs labiaplasty procedures under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis. The procedure is performed in his AAAASF-accredited surgical facility, the West Plano Plastic Surgery Center, which is located on the campus of Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital of Plano. He strictly uses physicians—not nurses or technicians—to administer your anesthesia. The procedure involves removing excessive tissues and repairing the labial edges with absorbable stitches. The resulting scars are generally difficult to find.
Pain is usually mild and well-controlled with prescription pain medication. Most patients return to light activities within 1 to 2 days. To reduce swelling, a tight panty-girdle is recommended for the first 10 days. A sanitary napkin is used for the first week. There is no need to remove sutures, as they will absorb on their own. Heavy straining, tampons, and intercourse should be avoided for at least 4 weeks. Improvement in labial size and contour is generally apparent shortly after surgery, but final results may take 3 to 6 months.
When you visit our office, Dr. Friedman will discuss your particular problems and concerns. He will give you a realistic expectation of what you can expect from surgery. We will also show you “before and after” photos of labiaplasties performed by Dr. Friedman. If you wish to speak to other patients who have undergone this surgery, we will be happy to provide you with phone numbers.
Q & A: Labiaplasty
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Should I have labiaplasty done by an OBGYN or by a plastic surgeon?
There is no right answer to this question. However, labiaplasty is essentially a cosmetic surgery. In comparison to OBGYNs, most plastic surgeons are more accustomed to judging aesthetics and symmetry and have more experience placing fine stitches. Dr. Friedman feels very comfortable performing this procedure.
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Are there any scars with labiaplasty?
Any time that the skin is cut, there will be a scar. However, labial tissues are thin and have good blood supply, making them less prone to scarring than most other areas of the body. Labiaplasty scars are generally quite inconspicuous.
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Will labiaplasty interfere with my sensation or intercourse?
Dr. Friedman generally avoids incisions near the clitoral region to minimize any risk of clitoral sensory compromise. Labiaplasty typically has no adverse effects on intercourse. In fact, for women who suffer from painful intercourse due to enlarged labiae, labiaplasty may relieve their symptoms and enhance their experience.
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How do I know how much tissue will be removed?
Dr. Friedman will mark the planned incision sites and tissues to be removed while you are standing in front of a mirror. This will allow you to communicate how much tissue you would like to have removed prior to the procedure, increasing the probability of a satisfactory result.
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How soon after labiaplasty may I resume intercourse?
You should not resume intercourse for at least 4 weeks following the procedure.
Labiaplasty: Instructions
One week before your procedure:
- Do not take aspirin-containing products, as these may increase your risk of bruising. Use extra-strength Tylenol for any headaches or other minor pains.
- Please notify Dr. Friedman’s staff if you become sick with a fever, significant cough, etc. If necessary, your procedure can be rescheduled to a time when you are feeling better.
- It is best to perform labiaplasty when you are not on your period.
At home after the procedure:
- Wear a panty-girdle for about 10 days to reduce swelling.
- Wear a sanitary napkin for about one week, as there may be a small amount of drainage from the incision sites.
- Do not perform strenuous exercise or engage in sexual intercourse for at least 4 weeks, as these may interfere with wound healing.
- Take the pain medication (as needed) and antibiotics that Dr. Friedman has prescribed for you.
- Wash the surgical site gently in the shower daily.
- Your labiae initially may be quite swollen. This will gradually improve over the next few weeks.
Please feel free to ask Dr. Friedman or his staff about any additional questions or concerns.