St. Louis Labioplasty Specialists

Labioplasty (also called labial reduction or labiaplasty) re-contours the labia--the folds of skin or "lips" that surround the entrance to the vagina. Although this procedure has just recently received some coverage in the popular press, it has been around for decades and is growing in popularity.

Labioplasty is not likely to be a topic of much conversation because the appearance of one's genitalia is extremely private and personal. However, women who have enlarged or uneven labia are pleased to learn that a relatively simple procedure can reduce the size, improve the symmetry, and refine the contour of the labia. The surgeons at BodyAesthetic are experienced with different techniques for labial reduction.

Large and/or irregular genital labia sometimes develop naturally, but deformities also can result from the stretching of childbirth or sexual intercourse, as well as aging and hormonal changes. Most women who seek labial reduction have enlarged labia minora (the "lips" nearer the vaginal opening) than the larger or longer than the labia majora (outer "lips"). Others have labia that are unequal in size or contour (asymmetry).

Enlarged or uneven labia can cause self-consciousness and discomfort during sex or even sexual avoidance. Difficulty keeping the genital area clean and irritation caused by the two "lips" rubbing together are other problems reported by some women. Rarely, oversized labia may be visible in tight-fitting clothing or swimsuits. More often, overly large or long labia are uncomfortable when wearing certain types of pants or participating in activities such as bike riding or jogging.

Every woman's external genital anatomy differs somewhat so the type of labioplasty procedure needed will depend on the problems you're having, what you hope to achieve, and your anatomy. This is determined during consultation with your surgeon after a thorough physical examination to identify the anatomical anomalies.

The Surgery

Several techniques are available for labial reduction, and the most appropriate one will depend on your genital anatomy. All the techniques basically involve removing excess tissue through a small incision that permits the labia minora size and contour to be trimmed. Any existing asymmetry is corrected at the same time.

The incision is typically made along the outer edge of the labia minora (the edge furthest away from the vaginal opening). If both the right and left labia are re-contoured, two incisions are required. Once the excess tissue is removed, the incision is closed with absorbable sutures that do not have to be removed.

What To Expect After Labioplasty

Only mild to moderate discomfort follows labioplasty for a day or two, and a quick recovery from this outpatient procedure is typical. You will be able to walk and bathe immediately, though some swelling should be expected. The swelling usually peaks 2 or 3 days after surgery and then begins to disappear. By 3 weeks after surgery, all swelling should be gone. Labial sensation is not altered by labioplasty.

Most women are able to drive and return to work 2 or 3 days after labial reduction. Strenuous activity should be avoided for 3 weeks, or about the time when all swelling is gone. After 3 weeks, you can resume all your normal activities, including sexual intercourse and exercise. During the 3-week period of healing, you should not use tampons or douches to make sure the surgical area heals properly.

Length Of Surgery

1 hour

Anesthesia

Usually general but may be done under local with sedation

In/Outpatient:

Outpatient

Side Effects

Discomfort for a day or two. Swelling.

Risks

Infection, bleeding, wound separation, painful scarring, asymmetry.

Recovery

Back to work: 2 to 4 days.
More strenuous activity: 3 weeks.
Intercourse: 3 weeks.

Duration of Results

Permanent