Deciding whether to have plastic surgery is always a very personal and intimate decision. This is especially true when you are considering a procedure involving your most intimate parts.
Although we do not often publicly discuss these issues, many women are unhappy with the appearance of their intimate areas. Some women naturally have labia that are large or asymmetrical, making them insecure about undressing in front of partners or even wearing fitted clothing. Other women develop extra tissue in childbirth or as they age.
Large or asymmetrical labia can have effects extending beyond pure aesthetics. Insecurity about these parts can lower sexual desire. Large labia can be pulled or chafed by fitted clothing. They also can be pulled or otherwise cause discomfort in physical activities such as sports. Although there is nothing wrong with the natural shape of one’s private parts, there is also nothing wrong with having a cosmetic procedure to make you more comfortable with your private areas.
What is Vaginoplasty
Vaginoplasty is a cosmetic procedure designed to change the size and shape of a woman’s genitals. This procedure can reduce the physical effects of large labia while making women feel more confident and unattractive when undressed or wearing tight clothing.
The most common type of vaginoplasty corrects the size and shape of the labia minora. These are the inner lips of the female genitals that surround the opening of the vagina. In many cases, even small changes to this region can leave women with more attractive genitals and increased sexual confidence.
If you are considering vaginoplasty, it is important to find a doctor who is experienced in these procedures and sensitive to the patients who need them. Dr. Shain Cuber is a board certified plastic surgeon who has been specially trained in the unique needs of this type of plastic surgery.
It is important to have reasonable expectations for all plastic surgery, but especially vaginoplasty. In general, this cosmetic procedure can correct issues including:
- Large labia
- Labia that are asymmetrical or unusually shaped
- Labia that are sized or shaped, so they are prone to pinching, friction, or irritation from exercise or intercourse
- Labia that create insecurities that interfere with normal activity, including sexual activity
Types of Vaginoplasty
There are several types of vaginoplasty. The most common types correct the labia minora, the labia majora, or both.
Labia Minora
Reducing the labia minora, or inner labia, can be done with one of two approaches. Surgeons can remove a strip of the labia from each side and then connect the remaining incision edges. This leaves a smaller yet natural appearing result with a scar that is nearly invisible.
In the second approach, the outer parts of the labia are simply trimmed down to the desired shape and size. This can lead to more scarring and is only used in particular circumstances.
Labia Majora
Although it is rarer, some women wish to have the appearance of their labia majora, or outer lips, changed with vaginoplasty. This is often down with noninvasive treatments such as radiofrequency or ultrasound. These technologies tighten skin and underlying tissues without incisions or sutures.
When more dramatic changes are needed, surgeons will make incisions inside the natural folds in the area. These leaves the scars less visible and also prevents friction.
Some women have other procedures performed along with surgery on their labia. Clitoral hoodectomy, which remove part of the clitoral hood, are sometimes performed. This procedure leaves more of the clitoris exposed during intercourse, increasing sexual response.
Non-Surgical Vaginal Rejuvenation Options
Recovering from Vaginoplasty
Vaginoplasty is usually an outpatient procedure, which means you will go home the same day. Most women experience some pain, which is controlled with pain medication. You also should expect swelling and bruising, which can make it difficult to see the results of the surgery at first. These resolve on their own after just a few weeks.
Another common after-effect is pain with urination. This happens because urine irritates the incisions. This can be prevented by running warm water over the area when you urinate to dilute the urine.
Most people can return to light activity, including work, in just 3 to 5 days. It is important to wear light, loose clothing and to refrain from using tampons or having sex for six weeks. This will give your body enough time to completely heal while also preventing infection.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Vaginoplasty?
Women in good health who are unhappy with the appearance of their intimate regions are ideal candidates for this procedure. If you want more information, contact our offices in Long Island for a free consultation. We can be reached at 516-472-7846 or through our online consultation form.