What Is a Labiaplasty and What’s Its Purpose?
Though we hear regularly about different plastic surgery procedures such as breast augmentations or tummy tucks, many people are more hesitant to talk openly about labiaplasty procedures. You may have heard the name, but might be unfamiliar with what a labiaplasty is and what the purpose of a labiaplasty is. With the increasing demand for labiaplasty procedures, we are here to give you a little better insight and information on labiaplasty surgery.
QUICK FACTS OF FEMALE ANATOMY
Before we dive into what is a labiaplasty, it’s important to have a brief understanding of the female genitalia. Surrounding the vagina are two sets of soft, fleshy tissue which differ in shape, size, and color in every woman.
The labia minora are the tissues right outside the vagina, which protect the clitoris and other internal female organs. The labia majora are the outermost tissues that protect the labia minora and the vagina. The labia majora are usually larger than the labia minora and are covered in hair. Everything on the “outside,” or the external parts of the female genitalia, is called a vulva. The labia minora and majora are all parts of the vulva.
SO WHAT IS A LABIAPLASTY?
A labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that aims to decrease the size of an enlarged labia minora as well as reshape it to look more symmetrical and balanced. This procedure is done by trimming the labia or removing a small wedge, and sometimes a combination of both. A labiaplasty will only address the appearance of the vulva, it will not tighten the vagina.
Some patients are bothered by the appearance of the labia majora. Some complaints are sagging skin, too much fullness, or a deflated appearance. Some patients will need to have skin removed or have fat transferred into the labia majora to address the loss of volume that comes with aging.
IS VAGINAL REJUVENATION THE SAME THING AS A LABIAPLASTY?
You may have heard the term “vaginal rejuvenation” here and there, but vaginal rejuvenation is not the same thing as a labiaplasty. Vaginal rejuvenation is a broad, umbrella term that encompasses a number of treatments and procedures surrounding the vagina and vulva, including a labiaplasty. Vaginal rejuvenation treatments include vaginal tightening lasers, such as FemTouch, and orgasm shots, like the Ohh-Shot. These treatments can help with vaginal tightening, decrease urinary incontinence, vaginal dryness, stimulate vaginal and clitoral sensation, and promote stronger, more frequent orgasms.
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF A LABIAPLASTY?
The purpose of a labiaplasty is to create a more symmetrical, balanced, and overall more aesthetic labia minora. Enlarged or asymmetrical labias are due to aging, genetics, and childbirth. Patients who opt in for a labiaplasty do so for a host of reasons including:
- Discomfort during sexual or physical activity
- Pinching, pulling, or tightness
- Irritation on or around the labia when it rubs against other things
- Trouble wearing tight clothing
- Hygiene issues, such as frequent urinary tract infections (UTI’s)
- Volume loss in labia majora
- Overall aesthetic appearance
- Low sexual self esteem
WONDERING IF YOU’RE A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR A LABIAPLASTY?
If you’re wondering or are curious about a labiaplasty, contact us at Aesthetica Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation with Dr. Crofts. During your consultation, Dr. Crofts will answer all of your questions and address any concerns you may have. Dr. Crofts has over 25 years of experience in plastic surgery and has performed hundreds of labiaplasty surgeries.
Every person is unique, and so is their anatomy. Dr. Crofts offers each of his patients personalized care and a custom treatment plan that works for them based on their health goals and needs. Sexual health, wellness, and confidence are an important part of a healthy life and relationships. Take control of your intimate life; book a consultation with Dr. Crofts to help you step into a more confident and healthy version of you.