Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure to alter the size of the labia, performed for reasons such as improving appearance, reducing discomfort, or affirming gender. The labia consist of two folds of skin around the vaginal opening: the labia majora (outer folds) and the labia minora (inner folds).
Techniques commonly used in labiaplasty include the trim procedure (trimming excess labia minora and suturing for symmetry) and the wedge procedure (removing a partial thickness wedge from the thickest part of the labia minora, preserving the submucosa layer for a natural appearance). Other techniques are available with pros and cons. A board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in labiaplasty can provide the best results.
After surgery, expect minimal swelling and pain lasting up to a week. Pain can be managed with prescribed painkillers. No dressing is usually required, and bathing is usually allowed from the next day.
The first follow-up is typically scheduled after 3 days, with suture removal around 1 week. Downtime of 2 weeks is common, mainly due to swelling. Special advice includes wearing breathable loose underwear and keeping the area clean.
Final results are typically visible after 6 months. Before surgery, it is recommended to stop smoking, alcohol, and blood thinners (after consulting with your doctor) and to discontinue herbal medications.
