A labiaplasty is a surgical procedure designed to remove parts of the labia minora, labia majora, or clitoral hood. Those looking for a labiaplasty may be struggling with body image issues due to the appearance of their labia or experience discomfort due to excess labia tissue. Dr. Kitto at Kitto Plastic Surgery in Richmond, VA, can perform this sensitive procedure.
Who Should Get a Labiaplasty?
There are a few different reasons people seek out a labiaplasty. Some people struggle with confidence due to the appearance of the labia, others experience discomfort, and others may be looking for a more symmetrical appearance. This is a highly individualized, very private and a safe procedure for women who experience physical or emotional discomfort due to the size or appearance of their labia.
What Can You Expect at a Consultation?
The surgeon will examine your labia during your consultation and discuss your appearance goals. Based on your goals, the surgeon can determine which areas of your labia they need to trim—this can include labia minora reduction or labia majora reduction. Once they better understand what you are looking for, they will then show you labiaplasty before and after pictures to demonstrate the results you can expect. These consultations typically last an hour and explain the details and include a review of recovery times, desired results, family medical history, and a description of the procedure, and discussing informed consent.
How Does a Labiaplasty Work?
A labiaplasty is a minimally invasive procedure. This means that a plastic surgeon can perform the procedure in their office with a local anesthetic. Depending on the appearance you are trying to achieve, the plastic surgeon may perform labia majora plastic surgery or labia minora plastic surgery. Each procedure requires its own techniques to create a symmetrical appearance.
Labia Majora Plastic Surgery
The labia majora are the skin folds surrounding the vagina that grow pubic hair. These are the clearly defined, visible folds you see when looking in the mirror. In labia majora plastic surgery, a surgeon removes a crescent-shaped piece of tissue from each labia majora. The surgeon ensures that the incisions and sutures are placed in easily hidden areas of the body.
Labia Minora Plastic Surgery
The labia minora are the folds of mucosal tissue immediately enclosing the vagina and the clitoris. They are located inside the labia majora. This tissue can be a variety of colors, sizes, and shapes. The labia minora plastic surgery uses one of two techniques to achieve the appearance you want—trim excision or wedge excision. Both techniques allow you to attain a smaller and more symmetrical appearance.
How Long Is Recovery?
Full recovery from a labiaplasty typically takes two weeks. Immediately after the procedure, you can expect some bruising, swelling, and discomfort. With pain medication, cold compresses, and rest, you should be feeling back to normal in no time. Once you heal, your surgeon will want to check on you and most likely take pictures. This allows you to compare the labia majora or labia minora surgery before and after.
How Much Does a Labiaplasty Cost?
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, a labiaplasty cost $3,053 on average in 2020. Depending on the area and surgeon, the cost can be more or less expensive, with the overall range being $2000-$6000.
Labia Majora and Minora Reduction at Kitto Plastic Surgery
Since a labiaplasty is a personal experience, it is essential to find a surgeon you are comfortable with and can trust. As a female board-certified surgeon, Dr. Kitto understands the unique challenges you may face with a labiaplasty. She offers highly individualized procedures in a comfortable environment.
If you would like more information about Labiaplasty surgery with Dr. Kitto, or wish to schedule a consultation, call us at 804-294-1777 today.