Labiaplasty is a minor surgical procedure, which can provide a good result for those who feel bothered by having too big labia minora (inner vaginal lips).
Generally about the treatment
Although often too embarrased to admit it, a lot of women suffer great discomfort from enlarged labia minora (inner vaginal lips).
For some, it's a matter of physical discomfort, as the excess skin of the labia protrudes further than with most women, causing pain throughout normal daily events, such as sporting activities or even when wearing tight trousers.
In other cases the problem is more of a cosmetic nature. Women with enlarged genitalia may feel unattractive and embarrassed of their appearence, causing low self esteem.
There are different causes for enlarged genitals. For some the condition occurs after pregnancy. In other cases, hormones may be the cause, or even sports can effect the genitalia. Some are simply born this way.
Whether the problem is physical, psychological, or both, labiaplasty is a minor, yet lifechanging procedure for those that suffer from the condition.
Suitability
Healthy and emotionally stable women with realistic expectations as to what can be achieved.
Labiaplasty should not be performed, while the patient is menstruating.
It's advised to avoid smoking 2 weeks prior to surgery, as well as the following 2 weeks after surgery.
The procedure
The surgeon will reduce the labia by removing the excess labial tissue, after which he refashions (re-attaches in a different area) the labia for a more cosmetically beautiful appearance. Lastly the surgeon stitches everything together, using sutures that should dissolve by themselves within the following 2-3 weeks.
The incisions will be made in the labial creases, in order to reduce the visibility of the scars.
After the surgery, the patient will be required to wear a pad of that similar to a panty-liner, which is to be worn for the the following 2-3 days.
Anaesthesia
The operation is usually carried out on an outpatient basis but can also be done under general anaesthesia.
Patients having this operation should avoid Aspirin/Ibuprofen prior to as well as after surgery.
Side-effects
The area often becomes swollen a week after surgery, which may lead to discomfort whilst urinating. Showering or pouring lukewarm water over the area whilst urinating may reduce the pain.
Risk of complications
There is a risk of side effects from the anaesthetic used, along with bleeding, poor wound healing, a poor cosmetic result, and blood accumulation.
No form of surgery is risk free, although severe complications are very rare.
Healing and recovery
The patient will usually feel sore and tired during the following couple of days after surgery, and it's advised to get plenty of bedrest during the first week.
It's essential to remain a good hygiene, meaning 2 showers a day. The patient will, however, have to wait for 24 hours after the surgery before showering. It is also important to wear loosely fitted underwear during the first 2 weeks after surgery. Tampons may be worn approximately 6 weeks after surgery.
The patient can usually return to work within the next week after surgery.
Strenuous activities can be resumed after 2-3 weeks, depending on the individual patient's healing process. Vaginal intercourse may be resumed after 6-7 weeks.
Duration of the result
The result is permanent.