Labiaplasty is often misunderstood as a purely cosmetic procedure; it can be a life- changing procedure used to resolve both physical discomfort and aesthetic concerns in women with enlarged labia. Discomfort, pain or self-consciousness due to the size of your labia are all equally valid reasons to consider getting a labiaplasty.
What is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that reduces the size or changes the shape of the labia minora or the labia majora. The procedure can involve both sets of labial tissue or just one, depending on the individual’s needs. The goal of Labiaplasty is to create a more symmetrical appearance and reduce physical discomfort caused by the labia. This is a day case procedure, meaning you can go home on the same day. It can be completed under local or general anaesthetic in 1-2 hours. Mild swelling and discomfort may be experienced post-procedure, but this will subside within 1-2 weeks. Full recovery from this procedure takes between 4-6 weeks. During this time, you should avoid strenuous activity, tight clothing and sexual intercourse to allow full healing to take place.
Why Get a Labiaplasty?
Physical Discomfort
Excess labial tissue can cause discomfort in everyday life. Many women will experience symptoms such as irritation, chafing and pain, particularly during activities such as cycling and running but even walking in some cases. Tight clothing, such as leggings or swimsuits, may exacerbate these symptoms. Labiaplasty can cause great relief to women experiencing these symptoms, allowing them to carry out their daily activities pain-free.
Aesthetic Concerns
Women may be unhappy with the appearance of their labia for a variety of reasons. This may be due to asymmetry or size of labia, women with larger labia may feel self-conscious when wearing tight clothing. Having a labiaplasty can increase confidence and remove the discomfort and embarrassment surrounding tight clothing.
UTI Prevention and Hygiene
In some cases, an enlarged labia may cause challenges concerning health and hygiene. Larger labia size has been linked to increased incidence of UTIs as a larger surface area can potentially trap more bacteria and facilitate its movement to the urethra, where it can cause UTIs. Additionally, the friction experienced when wearing tight clothes may irritate and, ultimately, cause small tears in the skin, which can serve as entry points for bacteria, further increasing UTI risk. A larger surface area and skin folds are more difficult to keep clean, reducing this surface area will, in turn, reduce the amount of bacteria, sweat and other bodily fluids that become trapped. Labiaplasty can make it easier to maintain cleanliness in the genital region.
Increased Sexual Confidence and Comfort
Enlarged labia can cause sexual discomfort or even pain. The excess tissue may get pulled or pinched, leading to discomfort. By reducing the size of the labia, this discomfort can be reduced, leading to a more enjoyable, intimate life. As previously mentioned, women who are unhappy with the appearance of their labia may experience self-consciousness or embarrassment during intimacy. Addressing these aesthetic concerns can boost sexual confidence, leading to a more fulfilling sexual experience.
Restoration after Childbirth
The labia may be stretched and loosened as a result of childbirth. For women who experience this, labiaplasty can offer a way to restore the labia to pre-pregnancy appearance. Similarly to all other motivations for having a labiaplasty, this can offer a reduction in physical discomfort and a boost in confidence. This is particularly valuable in the postpartum period, contributing to emotional recovery and positive body image.
Is Labiaplasty Right For You?
As every woman’s body is different, your individual goals and anatomy when deciding if this treatment is right for you. If you’ve ever wondered about getting a labiaplasty, a consultation can answer all of your questions surrounding the procedure and your specific goals and expectations from the surgery.
