About Labiaplasty
Although it isn't talked about a lot, some women have concerns about the size and shape of their labia, which can make them feel less confident. Scott Sessions, a board-certified plastic surgeon in La Mesa, CA, can help women feel more comfortable and attractive with vaginal rejuvenation surgery. This procedure addresses the size and shape of the labia. The labia (the external lips of the vaginal area) may look larger or have loose skin caused by natural aging, pregnancy, childbirth, or a physical trauma. A labiaplasty is a surgery that reduces the size of the labia minora and/or majora for a more uniform or less-stretched appearance. This could minimize discomfort and irritation, as well as raise confidence and sexual pleasure. Schedule your consultation at Sessions Plastic Surgery Centre to learn more about the benefits of a labiaplasty and find out if you are a candidate.
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Ideal Candidates
A labiaplasty at Sessions Plastic Surgery Centre may be helpful for women who are concerned about the shape or size of their vagina lips, which can be abnormal due to genetics, childbirth, or trauma. Abnormal vaginal lips may cause discomfort, itching, irritation, or even pain during physical activities, like exercise and sex. A labiaplasty may also help if you don't wear tight clothes (such as leggings, swimsuits, or tight pants) because of the size of your vaginal area. While a labiaplasty should not affect pregnancy, Dr. Sessions advises women to wait to have labiaplasty until they are done having children in order to avoid changing the results.
Surgical Technique
Vaginal rejuvenation treatments are performed in our procedure room under local anesthesia so you can drive yourself to and from your appointment. If the procedure is more extensive, you may require general anesthesia, which will mean you need a responsible person to pick you up after your surgery. Dr. Sessions will discuss these options and time estimates during your consultation so you can make any needed arrangements before your procedure. A labiaplasty is typically performed with a trimming technique to remove extra tissue, and then the remaining skin is sutured together. Another technique is the wedge procedure, which is the removal of a wedge-shaped piece of tissue and extra folds from the clitoral hood before suturing the skin closed.
What to Expect
You should take about a week to recover after your labiaplasty to allow the swelling and discomfort to abate before returning to work. Dr. Sessions recommends applying ice packs or cold compresses as needed to minimize swelling. You should not use tampons or have sexual activity for 4 – 6 weeks after your procedure. Patients generally notice visible improvements in about six weeks with final results fully visible about six months after surgery. The results of a labiaplasty are usually long-lasting, but childbirth, weight fluctuations, and natural aging can cause changes in the appearance of the labia.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a labiaplasty cost?
Your labiaplasty cost will depend on many factors, including the technique and the type of anesthetic used. The cost of any plastic surgery varies for every patient so Dr. Sessions will need to evaluate you in person before he can estimate your costs. In order to make your procedure more affordable, Sessions Plastic Surgery Centre accepts many payment methods, and we can help you find low-interest financing.
Should I choose a plastic surgeon or OB/GYN?
When researching vaginal rejuvenation surgery, you may find that many obstetricians and gynecologists (OB/GYNs) offer labiaplasty. While many OB/GYNs can perform labia rejuvenation, the procedure is most often considered cosmetic. An OB/GYN will be able to remove excess skin from your labia; however, they are not trained to consider the aesthetics of the procedure as a plastic surgeon, like Dr. Sessions is. Choosing a plastic surgeon ensures that scarring will be minimal and that the final symmetry, color, and contour will be natural looking.
Will vaginal rejuvenation surgery cause insensitivity?
As with any surgery, there may be decreased sensitivity in your vaginal area after the procedure is completed. This is usually temporary as the skin and tissue heal. In regard to sexual sensitivity, it is important to understand that labia rejuvenation shapes the vaginal lips, not the clitoris. A skilled surgeon, like Dr. Sessions, who has many years of experience performing cosmetic vaginal surgery will work around the clitoris so that a loss of sensitivity does not occur.
What is the recovery process like after a labiaplasty?
Before your surgery, Dr. Sessions or a member of his team will discuss what you can expect after your labiaplasty, as well as tips to speed your recovery. You will have some bruising and swelling in your vaginal area along with some discomfort immediately after your surgery. You should plan to rest for at least 5 – 7 days before returning to light activities. Dr. Sessions will assess your recovery during your follow-up appointments and let you know when you are able to resume exercise and sexual activity.
Are there nonsurgical vaginal rejuvenation treatments?
There are nonsurgical vaginal rejuvenation treatments that can improve mild looseness in your vaginal area. However, a labiaplasty is best for significant improvements to tighten and reshape your labia. During your consultation with Dr. Sessions, he can explain your options and make recommendations as to what will best fit your goals.
Comfortable and Confident
No two vaginas look exactly alike, and a lot of variables may play into the appearance of your outer labia. If you do not feel comfortable or confident because of the size and shape of your vaginal lips, labiaplasty could be worth considering. Schedule a consultation at Sessions Plastic Surgery Centre in La Mesa, CA to hear more about vaginal rejuvenation with a labiaplasty. Dr. Sessions will make sure you have all the information you need to decide if it is right for you.