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It’s never easy to talk about what’s going on “down there,” but we’re not ones to shy away from tough conversations. Here’s what you should know about labiaplasty and how it can help you.
Your vagina and vulva aren’t just another part of your anatomy: They are crucial parts of your confidence and femininity. Some cultures even praise them as a sacred area and the origin of life.
So why do we feel embarrassed about addressing vaginal problems? At Plastic Surgery Associates of Long Island in Roslyn Heights, New York, we don’t think you should be.
Led by Sotirios Papafragkou, MD, FACS, and Susie Rhee, MD, our team of experts knows how important both the look and the function of your vagina are. That’s why we’re giving you a sneak peek into a labiaplasty, one of the most effective genital plastic surgeries.
An overview of labiaplasty
Labiaplasty is a plastic surgery procedure we use to reshape the labia (the ‘lips’) around your vulva (the external part of your genitals). You have two different types of labia: the labia majora and the labia minora.
The labia majora are the fleshy outer lips that protect your vagina and vulva. The labia minora are the smaller lips that surround the opening of your vagina and urethra.
But just like any other part of your body, your labia are susceptible to changes and problems. Some women are born with long labia minora that make sex painful. Others notice gradual changes to their labia as they age.
No matter what’s behind your labia problem, labiaplasty is an effective way to restore their shape and function. Here’s a closer look at just some of the many benefits of investing in this powerful procedure.
1. Better sex
Discomfort during sex is one of the main reasons our patients ask about labiaplasty. If you’re uncomfortable with how your labia look, chances are you’re not relaxed and confident during sex. Additionally, certain labia shapes can impact your sexual function, making sex a painful experience rather than a pleasurable one.
2. More confidence
Problems with your labia don’t show up just when your clothes are off; they can be noticeable even when you have clothes on. A tight pair of leggings or a bikini can reveal what makes you most uncomfortable.
After a labiaplasty, you can feel confident both in the nude and in your favorite clothes.
3. Less pain
Your labia minora are incredibly delicate and sensitive. If they are exposed, anything from sexual activity to exercise can irritate them and cause significant discomfort.
4. Enhanced hygiene
Excess tissue from longer labia is harder to keep clean and can therefore be susceptible to bacteria. This puts you at a greater chance of repeat urinary tract infections (UTI). Labiaplasty helps you mitigate that risk and avoid other potential vaginal health problems.
5. Pregnancy recovery
Besides the gradual effects of time, pregnancy is one of the most common causes of changes in your vaginal and vulval appearance. The stretching and tearing that occurs during both pregnancy and delivery can significantly damage the delicate tissues around your vagina. That’s why labiaplasty is a key part of our mommy makeover services.
What you can expect
It may feel concerning to think about a surgical procedure on your labia, but labiaplasty is a minor, routine treatment. During your procedure, one of our trained surgeons carefully uses scissors, a scalpel, or a laser tool to remove excess tissue and then reshape the folds to create your desired look.
From start to finish, the procedure takes around 1-2 hours. We keep you comfortable by administering anesthesia or IV sedation. You should feel completely relaxed and at ease as we work.
There is a minor recovery period required after labiaplasty. You can expect some tenderness and swelling immediately after the surgery, but most of our patients return to their daily routine within 2-4 days.
Results are virtually immediate, but you notice the best results once you’ve fully healed after six weeks. After six weeks, you can also use tampons and resume vaginal intercourse.
Interested in what a labiaplasty can do for you? We’d love to talk. Call or click to schedule an appointment at our office today.
We are a Plastic Surgery center, and offer Breast Reduction, Tummy Tuck, and mommy makeover services. Call us to book your appointment today.