So, what exactly is labiaplasty (or labioplasty)? Labiaplasty is a plastic surgery procedure of the labia majora and labia minora which are both external folds of skin surrounding the vulva. Labiaplasty involves the reduction of an elongated labium and is typically part of a vaginoplasty.

In addition to reducing the size of labia, a labiaplasty may also be done to repair the labia after injury, childbirth, or disease. A hoodectomy may also be performed at the same time. This exposes the clitoris in an effort to increase sexual stimulation.

In the past, surgeons performed labium reduction via straight amputation of the protuberant sections and then suturing the edges together. This method had it’s problems however, and now surgeons use lasers with a more refined technique.

Labiaplasty is done while the patient is under local anesthesia and it is an outpatient procedure. Post surgery, patients may experience some swelling and mild discomfort, however these are both typically gone after a week or two. The recovery time for a labiaplasty usually ranges from three days to a few weeks.

As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks with labiaplasty. In approximately five to seven cases out of every 100, additional treatment is necessary.

Over the last few years, labiaplasty is growing in popularity. Most patients request labiaplasty for functional or aesthetic reasons and many complain that elongated labia causes pain during exercise, sexual intercourse, or during extended periods of sitting.

If you’re considering a labiaplasty, it’s recommended that you research the plastic surgeons in your area and meet with them for a consultation. Not everyone is a good candidate for this procedure, and it’s important that you do your homework prior to having this (or any) procedure done.