Labiaplasty

Age affects all parts of the human body; from the skin of the face to the elasticity and fullness of the labia. A labiaplasty can enhance the labia minora and/or labia majora for women who feel they’ve lost some of their luster. Dr. Amber L. Allen can apply her vast expertise to bring a harmonious balance to her patients’ most intimate areas. 

Conveniently located in Raleigh, North Carolina, Allen Aesthetic Surgery empowers you to contour your body to reflect your ideal vision. Whether you want to look better or feel amazing, Dr. Allen can help. Schedule a consultation at your earliest convenience to learn how labiaplasty may be right for you. We also offer virtual consultations for those who cannot visit us in person. No matter where you log on, Dr. Allen wants to connect.

What Is Labiaplasty?

Labiaplasty is a delicate procedure that reshapes and contours the vulva, which features two sets of labia. The outer set is called the labia majora and the inner ridge is known as the labia minora. Both sets of labia flank the vaginal opening.

In some cases, this procedure is performed to help stop elongated labia from twisting and tugging. Disproportionate labia can cause discomfort during normal daily activity or during intercourse. Other reasons include irritation, itching, and a feeling of self-consciousness. Regardless of the underlying reasons for labiaplasty, Dr. Allen approaches each procedure with focus and comprehensive care.

Did You Know?

FGCS or Female Genital Cosmetic Surgery has been becoming more popular in recent years, though its modern origins date back to 1983. These procedures have primarily been used to ease discomfort in women who have excessive labial tissue that causes discomfort or displeasure. A growing understanding of FGCS and its role in aesthetic and functional improvement has led to the rise in these treatments.

Between the years of 1983 and 1990, there was only one treatment available for labia. Since then, innovation has helped broaden the range of labiaplasty techniques. The exact type of procedure required will depend on the patient’s unique anatomy and improvement goals.

De-Epithelialization Method

To create a harmonious look and feel between the labia minora and majora, your surgeon can carefully remove the epithelial layer of tissue. The deepithelialization technique leaves a patient’s subcutaneous material untouched.^[1] The border between the two sets of labia are then skillfully rejoined all the way around the vulva. 

Wedge Technique

Instead of altering the entire perimeter of the labia, your surgeon may opt for the wedge technique.^[2] This is when she gently removes a wedge of tissue and sutures the incision together, tightening the overall look and feel of the area.

Trim Method

Also known as edge excision, the trim method reshapes the exterior of the labia minora to reduce their size. The trim technique may be employed to remove darker tissue and bring a brighter hue to the labia. 

Labiaplasty is not a “one size fits all” procedure. Your contours will dictate your self-improvement journey, and Allen Aesthetic Surgery will be your copilot along the way.

Benefits

The benefits of labiaplasty are as varied as the human anatomy. Your experience is unique, and Dr. Allen will customize your procedure to the exact nature of your cosmetic and wellness needs. Labiaplasty benefits generally fall into two major categories: functional and aesthetic. According to one extensive survey, 37% of women sought labiaplasty for aesthetic reasons, 32% wanted functional improvement, and the remaining 31% indicated that they received labiaplasty for both functionality and aesthetics.^[3] 

Benefits of Labiaplasty

• Minimize discomfort
• Facilitate sensitivity
• Clothes fit more comfortably
• Improves sexual functionality
• Provides symmetry
• Boosts self-esteem

Eligible Candidates

If you are a woman in the Raleigh vicinity and you wish to rejuvenate the look or feel of your labia, then Allen Aesthetic Surgery can help. Ideal candidates are non-smokers in good health and with realistic expectations. To determine your eligibility for labiaplasty, please call (919) 676-5052.

Preparation

During your individual consultation, you will receive detailed instructions on how to prepare for labiaplasty. Please follow Dr. Allen’s directions closely; she has your best interest at heart.

In general, it is always a great idea to quit smoking at least two weeks before any surgery. You may also be advised to stop taking certain supplements like aspirin, ibuprofen or other blood-thinners. Optimal circulation is vital to a safe and successful recovery.

Please appoint a loved one to be your caregiver before you arrive for your labiaplasty. This individual will help tend to your everyday needs, like filling prescriptions and monitoring your progress. Your caregiver will be expected to drive you to and from our clinic, since you will not be allowed to operate a motor vehicle after labiaplasty.

Procedure

The primary focus of a labiaplasty is to remove a portion of the labia minora to prevent them from extending below the labia majora. In some cases, this procedure is used to correct uneven labia or to prevent them from peering out from the sides of bathing suits or undergarments. Anesthesia can be administered locally, or general anesthesia may be required depending on the demands of the procedure. Dr. Allen closes her surgical incisions with absorbable sutures in most cases. These sutures do not require a follow-up visit to be removed.

Healthy Recovery

Typically, patients are advised to take a week or more off work to allow the affected tissues to heal correctly. During the recovery period, cold packs and medication are used to help ease pain from swelling. Cold packs are commonly placed on top of a sanitary napkin or wrapped in a paper towel. They should not be applied directly to the skin and should not be left for longer than approximately 20 minutes at a time. Patients are asked to avoid sitting for prolonged periods of time due to increased pressure to the site. A lying position is the best position for the first 3 days. Tight compression garments are not recommended but rather loose, flowy clothing allows the area to “breathe.” Patients should also rinse the surgical area with warm water following use of the toilet to ensure the area heals quickly. Excessive wiping is discouraged. 

Most patients can return to regular sexual activity and resume the use of tampons after 6 weeks. The initial swelling may pass in the first six weeks, but occasionally, swelling may take up to six months to fully resolve.

Labiaplasty Results

Labiaplasty is designed to resolve the concerns of the patient, primarily as they pertain to discomfort. Before undergoing labiaplasty, many women complain about irritation during exercise or sexual activity. By reshaping the dimensions of the labia, Dr. Allen can address these issues, helping to provide proper sensitivity and daily comfort.

Another wonderful subset of results stemming from labiaplasty involves improved aesthetics. When your most intimate parts reflect your preferred vision, then you can feel more confident in romantic situations. Sexuality is a complex combination of psychology and physicality. By contouring the labia, Dr. Allen can help alleviate concerns of both the body and the mind. The way you perceive your labia is a powerful reality. When labiaplasty delivers the results you want, it reduces insecurities and empowers your perspective.

FAQ

References 

1. Thomas, Liji. (2019). De-Epithelialization Technique for Labial Reduction. News-Medical. Retrieved from: https://www.news-medical.net/health/De-Epithelialization-Technique-for-Labial-Reduction.aspx 
2. Cao, Y., Li, Q., Li, F. et al. (2015). Aesthetic Labia Minora Reduction with Combined Wedge-Edge Resection: A Modified Approach of Labiaplasty. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 39, 36–42. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00266-014-0428-x 
3. Miklos, JR, Moore, RD. (2008). Labiaplasty of the Labia Minora: Patients’ Indications for Pursuing Surgery. The Journal of Sexual Medicine. 5(6)1492-1495. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1743-6109.2008.00813.x