Labiaplasty

Labiaplasty is a surgery designed to reduce the size of the labia minora (the inner folds of skin around the vaginal opening). The procedure can be performed for cosmetic reasons or to alleviate discomfort caused by an enlarged labia, such as irritation during exercise or sexual activity.

Long Island has many talented plastic surgeons to choose from. Dr. Vandegrift is an excellent choice for women seeking compassionate care and expert medical advice from a trusted female plastic surgeon. Our goal is to help each patient feel heard and respected while providing exceptional surgical results.

Childbirth can change the labia’s shape and size. Many women desire labiaplasty after having children to restore a more youthful appearance to the genital area. Often, our patients choose to combine this procedure with other surgical options for restoring the body after childbirth, like breast surgery or a tummy tuck as part of our mommy makeover. You can also get a labiaplasty if you have never had children.

In some cases, pregnancy after labiaplasty can change the labia’s size or shape. Dr. Vandegrift can perform revision surgery after pregnancy if needed.

Most patients will need to avoid sex for four to six weeks after labiaplasty.

To ensure accurate pricing information, Dr. Vandegrift can provide an accurate quote for surgical procedures like labiaplasty after a discussion about treatment goals and a physical examination.

If you’re in good health and desire a change in your labia’s appearance, you may be a candidate for surgery. 

The best candidates for plastic surgery do not smoke. Smoking can slow the healing process and lead to post-surgical complications. 

To ensure each patient is a good candidate for this procedure – physically and mentally – you’ll talk extensively about your goals, medical history, and lifestyle with Dr. Vandegrift during the consultation.

Labiaplasty is a common procedure, even if you haven’t heard many women talking about it. Most of our patients who receive this surgery prefer to keep their procedure discreet. Hundreds of women receive labiaplasty each year, including many in the Long Island area.

People may seek labiaplasty for:

• Physical discomfort due to large or uneven labia (such as during exercise or intercourse)
• Self-consciousness or dissatisfaction with the appearance of the labia
• Medical issues, such as irritation or infection, from oversized labia
• Traumatic injury or changes from childbirth that affect the labia

Labiaplasty is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon. However, like any surgery, there are risks involved, including infection, scarring, bleeding, and anesthesia complications. It’s important to discuss potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider.

Labiaplasty is typically performed under local anesthesia or general anesthesia. The surgeon will remove excess tissue from the labia minora to create a more symmetrical or aesthetically pleasing appearance. There are various techniques used, but the most common is the trim method, where the excess tissue is cut away, and the edges are stitched together.

The recovery time varies, but most people can resume most normal activities within 1 to 2 weeks. Full recovery, including healing internal sutures, can take several weeks. During the recovery period, patients are advised to avoid sexual activity, strenuous exercise, and activities that may irritate the area.

As with any surgery, there are risks involved, including:

• Infection
• Scarring
• Pain or discomfort
• Numbness or altered sensation
• Excessive bleeding
• Unsatisfactory cosmetic results
• Difficulty with future childbirth. While labiaplasty does not typically interfere with vaginal birth, it is advisable to wait until after childbirth to undergo the procedure.

After the procedure, there will be swelling and bruising in the area, which typically subsides within a few weeks. Patients may experience mild discomfort, which can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. It’s important to follow post-operative care instructions closely, including avoiding infection and allowing adequate time for healing.

The vast majority of patients report no loss of sexual pleasure after labiaplasty. In fact, some find that the procedure enhances sexual satisfaction by eliminating discomfort caused by the labia during intercourse. However, individual experiences vary.

Yes, labiaplasty can often be combined with other cosmetic procedures, such as vaginal rejuvenation or a clitoral hood reduction, depending on the patient’s needs and desires. It is essential to consult with a skilled surgeon like Dr. Vandegrift to discuss your options and risks.

Labiaplasty results are generally long-lasting, but the labia may change with age, hormonal fluctuations, or pregnancy. However, once the labia has been reshaped, it will remain in its new form unless affected by significant changes in the body.

The cost of labiaplasty varies depending on factors like the surgeon’s expertise, geographic location, and the complexity of the procedure. In the US, the cost typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000 or more. This cost may or may not include anesthesia, facility fees, and post-operative care.

Most insurance companies do not cover labiaplasty as it is considered an elective cosmetic surgery. However, if the procedure is performed for medical reasons (such as chronic pain or infection), insurance might cover some or all of the costs. It’s essential to check with the insurance provider ahead of time.

When selecting a surgeon for labiaplasty, it’s essential to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon, like Dr. Vandegrift, who has experience specifically with labiaplasty procedures. Look for reviews or testimonials, ask about before-and-after photos of past patients, and have an open discussion about your goals and concerns.

If you’re considering labiaplasty, it’s important to consult with a licensed healthcare professional to understand your options, risks, and expectations in detail.