Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that reduces the size of the female labia, the inner and/or outer vaginal lips, usually to repair damage caused by injury, disease, or childbirth. Women with large labia can experience discomfort during intercourse, or during everyday activities or while wearing tight-fitting clothes or undergarments. Labiaplasty can be done in combination with other female genital cosmetic surgery procedures such as Vaginoplasty, or vagina rejuvenation.
In recent years, however, more and more women have sought labiaplasty for cosmetic reasons, which has sparked some controversy both inside and outside the medical profession. Opponents of cosmetic labiaplasty argue that plastic surgery to improve the appearance of the labia provides unwarranted exposure to the inherent risks of cosmetic surgery, especially since there are no “ideal” labia and varying appearances are normal.
Who can get a labiaplasty?
Labia surgery is for women who have large or asymmetrical labia or related issues. Labiaplasty reduces the outward appearance of the labia or corrects misshapen or irregular labia. The best candidates for labiaplasty are women who experience sexual dysfunction, embarrassment, or pain.
Risks of Labiaplasty
The risks involved in labiaplasty are many, and probably long-term, since most patients seeking labiaplasty are relatively young. The resulting scar tissue at the opening of the vagina may subsequently cause complications and trauma during childbirth. Also, dyspareunia (medically- or psychologically-induced painful sexual intercourse), modified sensation, and infection may occur.
Before Arriving at a Decision
Women are strongly advised to study the matter very carefully before making a delicate move like having a labiaplasty. They should get advice from different competent, highly reliable sources. Very few surgeons are skilled enough to undertake this intricate procedure with good results. It is important for patients considering labiaplasty to find highly trained and experienced in female genital cosmetic surgery.
Cosmetic Guru responded:
A large percentage (upwards of 90%) of individuals who undergo this operation report that they are very satisfied on the results. In today’s culture it seems this operation is both necessary and welcome. I wonder what kind of advances will happen in the future with it as stem cell research improves, and the ability to grow tissues is coupled with improved laser technology.
Dee responded:
Can small testicular implants be placed in the labia? I have always wanted this. Has it been done?
Answer from PSC Doctor:
William P. Adams, Jr., MD
CMO responded:
This is not routinely done to my knowledge and would be very high risk for post-operative complications. Would not recommend it.