Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that alters the size and/or shape of the labia, the inner and outer lips of the vulva. Labiaplasty can address physical discomfort or functional issues, but can also be for cosmetic reasons. Reducing pain or irritation from labial tissue rubbing against clothing or during exercise, difficulty with hygiene, or a desire for a more aesthetically pleasing appearance are the most common reason for a women to consult for a labiaplasty.

The goal of the procedure is to reduce the labia minora so that they don’t hang below the hair-bearing labia majora. A labiaplasty may be performed to reduce asymmetry when one is longer than the other, or, more commonly, to reduce the length of both labia so that the labia no longer twist, tug or fall out of a bathing suit.

The most common type of labiaplasty is the trim procedure, in which the extra tissue is removed and sewn up directly. Next in popularity is the wedge procedure, which maintains a natural border after a pie-shaped piece of tissue has been removed. Extra folds of the clitoral hood can also be reduced at the same time. Closure is usually done with absorbable sutures.

Most patients take a week off from work, during which they can reduce swelling and pain by icing with a cold pack sandwiched between the patient’s underpants and an elastic garment, like Spanx. This can be done “twenty minutes on, twenty minutes off.” The patient can also lie with her bottom elevated to reduce swelling. Swelling can take up to 6 weeks, residual swelling may take six months to disappear.

Labiaplasty typically results in shorter labia that no longer hang down below the level of the hair-bearing labia majora. Most patients who experienced symptoms from twisting and tugging of their labia generally find relief after surgery.

If you’re not considering surgery, our practice offers in-office, vaginal rejuvenation treatments that may be suitable for your concerns, depending on your candidacy. Learn more about our in-office, non-invasive vaginal rejuvenation.