Unfortunately, everything sags as women age, including their labia. For some women, this can become an uncomfortable problem. The sagging tissue twists and is tugged by the undergarments. Other women become self-conscious over their labia’s elasticity loss and lose their sex drive. Eagle’s Landing OB/GYN performs labiaplasty and answers the following common questions about this cosmetic procedure.
Why Would I Want Labiaplasty?
As mentioned above, a sagging labia can turn and twist in underpants, but it can also tug during intercourse or when riding a bike. For some, the labia can twist even when they sit down. A labiaplasty shortens the tissue to prevent twisting. It also relieves associated irritation and itching.
What Is the Purpose of Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty shortens the labia minora, which is the skin underneath the labia majora that surrounds your vagina. If extended long enough, some women have even experienced the embarrassment of their labia minora peeking out of their swimsuits. Labiaplasty prevents this from happening.
Will I Be Put Under for the Procedure?
That depends on your preference. You can undergo labiaplasty with local anesthesia only but if you prefer, general anesthesia can also be employed. Your physician will discuss anesthesia options with you to determine which is best for your situation.
What Happens During the Procedure?
There are two types of labiaplasty: trim and wedge. Trim labiaplasty removes extra skin and then the labia minora is sewn up with absorbable stitches. Wedge labiaplasty removes a piece of the labia minora that is in the shape of a pie piece and, again, the stitched with dissolving sutures.
Does Labiaplasty Have Risks?
All surgeries have risks and labiaplasty is no exception. Common risks include bleeding, bruising and infection. Another risk is removing too much labia, which reduces vaginal lubrication. Finally, scarring can occur that causes pain during intercourse after the procedure.
What Is the Recovery Time?
It’s wise to take a week off from your daily activities after labiaplasty. There will be swelling and some pain, but this can be abated with ice packs. After a week, patients may resume their normal activities and they may resume their sexual relations in four to six weeks.
What Are the Results?
Patients will see a shorter labia minora after labiaplasty, much like they had when they were younger. This prevents the labia minora from twisting and tugging, which reduces discomfort in seated positions and during sex. It also boosts confidence for many women.
Call Eagle’s Landing OB/GYN in Stockbridge, GA, at 770-474-1919 if you have additional questions about this cosmetic procedure.
