According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), in recent years, the number of people looking to alter the appearance of their labia has drastically increased with their 2016 report showing a 39% increase in the number of labiaplasties performed that year. Many experts believe this increase is largely thanks to societal pressures and beauty standards put upon young women by the movie and adult film industries. While some women will receive labiaplasties in order to reduce irritation, a large majority of these procedures will be done in order to achieve the patient’s desired aesthetic. Dr. Jason Paul Helliwell, a obstetrician-gynecologist based in Bakersfield, California, s that while there is no set “normal” for a women’s labia, he hopes to help inform women looking to pursue this elective surgery by answering some of the most commonly asked questions regarding labiaplasty.
What is a Labiaplasty?
A labiaplasty is a type of cosmetic medical procedure that involves reducing the length of a women’s labia minors. Today, it is the most commonly performed elective genital plastic surgery and can help patients build confidence and relieve symptoms irritation due to tugging of the labia.
Are There Risks Involved with a Labiaplasty?
Dr. Jason Paul Helliwell stresses that, as with any surgery, there are risks associated with a Labiaplasty. Some of the most common risks associated with labiaplasty include bleeding, infection, and the development of a hematoma. However, the most common labiaplasty complication is over-resection, also referred to as aggressive reduction. Aggressive reduction is a term used to describe labiaplasty procedure that takes away too much of the labia, and can lead to chronic dryness, scarring near the vaginal opening, and subsequent pain during intercourse. Additionally, if a surgeon decides to use a wedge procedure during the predation, the patient is more likely to experience healing problems if they have been exposed to substances that cause blood vessels to shrink such as decongestants.
What Can I Expect During Labiaplasty Recovery?
Usually, it takes women between 2-4 weeks to return to an active lifestyle after a labiaplasty, however, it can take up to 6-8 weeks to recover enough to engage in intercourse free of pain. A large percentage of patients will take a week off of work to recover from the surgery. During this time, they are often told to ease pain and swelling by placing a cold pack between their legs and elevating their bottom. While trim labiaplasty often provide patients with a faster recovery time, patients can still experience residual swelling up to six months after the surgery.
