Find Out More About Labiaplasty and If It Is Right for You

Feminine rejuvenation procedures are some of the most popular procedures Schaffer Plastic Surgery patients seek. These procedures focus on improving the aesthetics and function of the female genitalia and can include both non-surgical options like diVa® laser therapy and surgical options like labiaplasty.

Labiaplasty, a surgical procedure to remove excess skin around the vaginal opening, has grown to be exceptionally popular in the last few years. However, is it normal to have extra skin down there? The short answer is yes. Here’s a closer look at why excess skin may be an issue for some women and how labiaplasty can help. 

Labiaplasty: An In-Depth Look

Labiaplasty was once a rare procedure. However, between 2020 and 2021, there was a 36 percent growth in labiaplasty procedures. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) recognizes labiaplasty as a beneficial procedure with both cosmetic and functional benefits. 

Women with enlarged or uneven vaginal lips might encounter physical discomfort, irritation or even psychological effects, such as self-consciousness about how their body looks to their partner or when wearing tight-fitting clothing. Discomfort can arise when the labia minora extends beyond the outer labia (labia majora), which can lead to uncomfortable friction during sex or day-to-day movement. Whether the concerns are rooted in aesthetics or irritation, labiaplasty offers a straightforward surgical solution to address these issues.

Purpose and Benefits of Labiaplasty

Labiaplasty is a surgical intervention aimed at reducing the size of the labia minora, commonly referred to as the inner vaginal lips. The appearance of female genitalia is diverse among individuals, and changes in vaginal anatomy can occur for various reasons, such as post-childbirth or simply due to aging. 

Labiaplasty surgery offers patients the potential to attain:

• Reduced size of the labia minora, so this tissue no longer extends beyond the labia majora.
• Restored symmetrical appearance of the labia minora.
• Shortened labia minora that relieves twisting or tugging caused by clothing friction.

Additionally, labiaplasty serves as a surgical solution for labial adhesion — a condition where the labia minora are fused or stuck together over the vaginal opening. This condition can be both painful and aesthetically displeasing to some patients. While typically addressed through monitoring and topical creams, labiaplasty stands as an alternative for resolving this concern.

Labiaplasty Procedure Types and Techniques

Three primary types of labiaplasty are used in modern plastic surgery, including: 

• The Trim Method: The straightforward removal of small sections of extra tissue to restore aesthetic appeal and symmetry. 
• The Wedge Method: Tissue is removed using v-shaped incisions to ensure the most natural-looking results. 
• Z-Plasty or Z-Incision: Tissue is removed using a z-shaped incision to reduce stress on surrounding tissues and scar tension. 

Schedule a consultation by calling 205-619-9905. 

The Cost Factor: Labiaplasty and Financial Considerations

The cost of labiaplasty varies depending on the methodology, patient preferences and more. For patients who do not intend to pay for labiaplasty with private funds, applying for financing through CareCredit is a good idea. CareCredit offers healthcare financing that allows flexible payment options for elective procedures that may not be covered by standard medical insurance. 

Making the Decision: Why Choose Labiaplasty?

While it is normal to have some extra skin “down there,” for some patients, the extra skin can become a source of discomfort and low self-confidence. Choosing labiaplasty to address your concerns about large or uneven labia is a process that should be guided by a surgeon with the best credentials.

Dr. Christopher Schaffer at Schaffer Plastic Surgery is a respected leader in the field of aesthetic and reconstructive surgery with over two decades of practice and eight years of advanced training. On-site procedures performed by Dr. Schaffer at Schaffer Plastic Surgery in Birmingham are overseen with the most critical eye to safety, comfort and patient satisfaction. 

A Closer Look at Other Feminine Rejuvenation Procedures

Labiaplasty is only one type of surgical vaginal rejuvenation surgery, and patients may opt to have one or more other procedures performed at the same time, such as: 

• Labia Majora Reduction: Enhancing the appearance of the outer vaginal lips by surgically removing excess tissue.
• Labial Puffing Procedure: Revitalizing the labial area with fillers or fat transfer for a fuller appearance.
• Clitoral Hood Reduction: Reducing the size of the clitoral hood for a balanced result with labiaplasty.
• Monsplasty: Reducing bulkiness by removing excess fat and tissue in the pubic region.

Discuss Vaginal Rejuvenation Procedures With the Team at Schaffer Plastic Surgery 

Schaffer Plastic Surgery offers a range of vaginal rejuvenation procedures to restore your self-confidence, well-being and comfort. Additionally, we offer both surgical and non-invasive, non-surgical options. If you are looking to determine if you are a good candidate for vaginal rejuvenation or labiaplasty, schedule a consultation by calling 205-619-9905.