Labiaplasty, or female genital contouring, is becoming increasingly popular as more and more patients learn about the procedure, especially online. While awareness of this procedure is growing, patients still have a lot of common questions about labiaplasty before they’re ready to schedule a consultation. Dr. Lucie Capek has the answers you’re looking for, thanks to years of experience offering labiaplasty to her patients. Here is your guide to the procedure.
What is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure which reshapes the vulva, more specifically the labia, or inner and outer lips that surround the vagina. Most commonly, the procedure is performed to reduce the overall size of the inner labia, though enhancement or more rarely reduction of the outer labia is also an option.
Why Choose Labiaplasty?
There are several common reasons why patients choose labiaplasty. Large or hanging labia can cause discomfort and self-consciousness in many situations. It is common for patients to experience pain or discomfort during intercourse, certain types of exercise or physical activity, or simply when wearing tighter clothing. In addition, larger labia can be visible when wearing certain types of clothing, such as a bathing suit or exercise leggings.
Large inner labia can be caused by genetic factors and may develop in young women at menarche, or later in life due to changes to the labia with pregnancy and childbirth. Patients are more likely to see changes to their outer labia with menopause, aging or significant weight loss, resulting in a deflated appearance or excess skin.
What is the Labiaplasty Procedure Like?
Dr. Capek performs labiaplasty most often in a very private office setting, though more exteinsive procedures can be done in a surgery center. The most common type of labiaplasty is performed under local anesthesia, which is administered after a topical numbing cream is applied to the treatment area so that you remain comfortable throughout the procedure. Dr. Capek uses the edge trim technique or the wedge excision technique to reduce the size of the inner labia, according to the patient’s anatomy and preferences. If necessary, the clitoral hood, outer labia, or mons pubis may also be contoured with a variety of techniques. Once the procedure is complete, dissolvable stitches are used to close any incisions.
What is Recovery Like after Labiaplasty?
After labiaplasty, it is common to experience swelling, bruising and some discomfort, which patients can generally alleviate using an ice pack, Tylenol and stronger pain meds as needed. Walking and standing should be limited during the first 2-3 days as you heal and recover. Dr. Capek will advise you to use an antibiotic ointment to avoid infection and cleanse the area using warm water. While most patients return to work after about a week, it’s best to avoid exercise and intercourse for approximately 6 weeks after the procedure.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re interested in labiaplasty, the first step is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Lucie Capek by calling her Latham, NY office at (518) 765-8405 or requesting your appointment online. She will answer any questions you may have during this appointment and determine whether labiaplasty is a suitable option for you.
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