Labiaplasty – the best cosmetic Gynecologist in Delhi

A labiaplasty is a surgical procedure done to reshape the labia minora—the inner “lips” of the vulva. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the number of people seeking to alter the appearance of their labia has been increasing since the organization began keeping track in 2015.

The 2016 ASPS statistics report showed a 39% increase in the number of labiaplasties performed that year.

News reports about the growing popularity of labiaplasty might have you believe women are having it done for cosmetic reasons, based on a desire to conform to what they’ve come to believe is normal or more attractive. This likely is far from the main reason most labiaplasties are performed, however.

Why Have a Labiaplasty?  

Labia size and shape is as individual as eye color, and the range of what's "normal" is wide and deep. However, when a person's labia are especially elongated, the excess tissue can cause discomfort or get in the way of normal function.

An athlete whose labia is long may find that the tissue sticks to their leg during physical activity, for example. Labial tissue that protrudes can make sitting on a bicycle seat uncomfortable.

And yes, there are people who decide to have a labiaplasty for aesthetic reasons, but they're rarely influenced by some supposed beauty norms, according to the ASPS.

Some who view their inner labia as abnormally long may feel self-conscious about the outward appearance of their genitalia, causing them emotional or psychological distress during sex or while wearing a thong or swimsuit. The labia can be obvious in tight-fitting yoga pants as well.

What to Expect From Surgery

To do a labiaplasty, a surgeon simply trims the excess tissue to allow the lips of the labia minora to sit tucked neatly within the labia majora—the outer lips of the vulva. It can be done under local or general anesthesia and recovery typically is swift and uncomplicated.

Labiaplasty procedures

Initially, there was a single procedure for labiaplasty, and it was very popular as well. With the change of time and advancement in techniques, several techniques have evolved. Some of them are as follows:

Trim procedure

It is the original technique and is most natural to perform. It is also the most widely used technique used by surgeons. In this procedure, the excess part of labia minora is removed and sutured so that it is symmetrical with the labia majora.

Wedge procedure

In this procedure, a partial thickness wedge is removed from the thickest part of the labia minora. The submucosa (layer tissue beneath a mucous membrane) must be left intact by removing only a partial thickness. This procedure gives the vagina a natural look after the surgery as well, preserving the wrinkled edges.

There are several other techniques for reducing the labia minora, and all these techniques have certain advantages and disadvantages. If you are considering a labiaplasty, the key to ensure appropriate outcomes is to make sure you are going to a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in this procedure.

Anesthesia for a labiaplasty

Labiaplasty is an outpatient surgery. The procedure can be performed within an hour, either individually or with other cosmetic surgery. It can be performed under local anesthesia or general anesthesia, depending on the treatment plan discussed with your plastic surgeon.

Postsurgical care

The genital region of females is very sensitive and requires proper care in general. So, when undertaking a procedure like a labiaplasty, there are some post-operative instructions you need to be aware of before having the procedure.

You should avoid long showers and should pat the wound dry every time after washing. The antibiotics prescribed by the surgeon should be taken to reduce pain and inflammation, which can be present after the procedure Riding bikes, running and other physical activities will need to be avoided until you have been released by your plastic surgeon. Premature return to the activities can exert pressure on the wound and will unnecessarily delay the healing process. You should not wear tight clothes or undergarments as they cause friction against the wound. Also, you cannot indulge in sexual intercourse for at least four weeks.

Choosing to have a labiaplasty

Labiaplasty has functional and cosmetic benefits. Most women undergo surgery to reduce the excess labia which twists and turn and causes pain and irritation. Others want to restore their youthful look after childbirth or aging. Though the reasons are numerous, you should seek a board-certified plastic surgeon that understands the medical, mental and emotional factors of a procedure like a labiaplasty

Dr. Ruchi Tandon is an American Board certified Cosmetic Gynecologist who has done multiple Cosmetic Gynecology procedures in Delhi NCR.