Terms like “vaginal rejuvenation” or “designer vagina” pop up in many cosmetic blogs, magazine articles and social media posts. Promotion of these laser, radiofrequency and ultrasound devices offer vaginal tightening, decrease of incontinence and eliminating vaginal dryness. However, to truly gain the desired outcome relating to these issues, labiaplasty should be considered. Unlike any other treatment classified under the vaginal rejuvenation umbrella, labiaplasty is the only one that is a surgical option leading to permanent results. 

Labiaplasty involves several surgical options to either increase or decrease the size of the labia for medical, cosmetic or emotional reasons. To enlarge the labia, a surgeon will remove a small amount of fat via liposuction from another area of the body, usually the stomach or thigh, and inject the fat into the labia majora. To reduce the labia, a surgeon will consider 2 options known as the trim and the wedge. With the trim procedure, a surgeon removes excess tissue from the outer edge of one or both sides of the labia minora to reduce asymmetry and even the sides of the labia majora. With the wedge procedure, a surgeon removes a wedge or pie-shaped piece of tissue from the inner areas of one or both sides of the labia minora joining with sutures to the outer area to create a significantly less pronounced appearance. 

Excess labial tissue, chronic urinary tract infections due to hygiene, visual lines or “camel-toe,” and trauma after childbirth, are common reasons for labiaplasty. At David W. Allison, MD our goal is to achieve the optimal position, appearance, contour and sensation for each patient. Many patients voice their concerns regarding the aftermath of a labiaplasty. The most asked question from our patients is “does a labiaplasty reduce feeling?” As with any plastic surgery, there may be a feeling of numbness in the treated area after the procedure is completed. We assure each of our patients that this side effect is temporary and should dissipate in a short amount of time. Most patients can return to work within 1 week, swelling should be gone by 6 weeks, and most are fully recovered within 4-6 months of surgery. 

The desired outcome is not only for ideal aesthetics and improved confidence but also to improve function and comfort during exercise and sex. The protrusion of vaginal lips or length of the labia can cause chafing when walking or running and can make having sex uncomfortable or even painful. Labiaplasty seeks to reduce if not eliminate these issues reducing pain and increasing sexual pleasure. 

If you are experiencing adverse effects because of the size and shape of your labia, no need to feel self-conscious. David W. Allison, MD plastic surgeons welcome you to discuss your concerns and needs with the utmost of confidence and care. We encourage you to book online at WEBSITE or call our friendly office staff at 703-754-8228 for more information.