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Cosmetic and functional concerns related to the feminine anatomy can be very difficult for women to discuss; however, if you’re dissatisfied with the appearance of your labia, or if excess tissue causes chafing or other forms of discomfort, there is no reason not to address these issues with a qualified plastic surgeon. Dr. Neal Goldberg is a board-certified plastic surgeon who can correct a range of conditions affecting this intimate and sensitive area.
What Is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty, sometimes written as “labioplasty,” is a surgical procedure designed to trim away excess labial tissue. The vagina is surrounded by two sets of protective tissues: the labia majora and labia minora. Although the feminine anatomy comes in many shapes and colors, some women find excess labial skin to be cosmetically unappealing, and some women experience physical discomfort during sex or exercise as a result of excess labial skin. Regardless of your concerns, Dr. Goldberg can help you find a solution that makes you feel more confident and comfortable in your body.
Labiaplasty Results
View GalleryWhat Are The Benefits Of Labiaplasty?
Stretched or elongated tissue in the intimate areas can be very uncomfortable and even lead to cosmetic insecurity. Labiaplasty can have a multitude of benefits, depending on the purpose of the procedure and the individual needs and goals of the patient. Generally speaking, labiaplasty can:
- Reduce excess labial skin
- Reshape the vulva for a more cosmetically appealing look
- Minimize discomfort and friction caused by excess or loose tissue
- Enhance sexual satisfaction by trimming away excess skin around the clitoral hood
- Improve self-confidence
Many women find they are more comfortable in form-fitting clothing, such as exercise clothes and swimwear, after a labiaplasty. They also report improved confidence in intimate situations. The reasons for considering a labiaplasty are unique and personal, and we respect each woman’s decision.
Is Labiaplasty Right for Me?
Labiaplasty can be a quick, predictable, and effective procedure to remove excess tissue in the intimate areas, but surgery may not be right for every patient. Patients considering labiaplasty are usually dissatisfied with the appearance of their intimate areas and/or they feel pain and discomfort from stretched labial tissue. Common motivations behind pursuing labiaplasty include:
- Twisting and tugging of excess tissue during exercise, while sitting, etc.
- Difficulty with hygiene and/or frequent UTIs caused by bacteria buildup
- Asymmetry and/or a stretched/aged look
- Sexual dysfunction and/or issues during intercourse
- Improved self-confidence and a more positive body image
If you’re considering surgery, it’s important to maintain reasonable expectations for what the procedure can realistically achieve. Dr. Goldberg will walk you through the risks of labiaplasty, as well as the potential benefits, so you have a good understanding of the results. Patients should also be healthy, non-smokers, and have no future plans for pregnancy.
What Is The Labiaplasty Procedure Like?
Several techniques can be used to remove excess tissue and create a smoother, more tucked appearance to the vulva, including the “wedge” and trimming. Dr. Goldberg will evaluate your characteristics, discuss your concerns and goals, and develop a personalized treatment plan. General anesthesia can be utilized, or local anesthesia combined with sedation for those interested in the awake labiaplasty technique. During the procedure, you will be made comfortable and the area will be numbed. The surgery typically takes about an hour, and you should be able to return home the same day as the procedure.
Awake Labiaplasty
“Awake labiaplasty” refers to a technique in which the labiaplasty procedure is performed under local anesthesia and sedation rather than general anesthesia. Some patients are surprised to learn that labiaplasty can still be an effective and safe procedure without using general anesthesia. For patients who are good candidates for the technique, awake labiaplasty can offer a more convenient and manageable treatment process without sacrificing a painless and predictable procedure.
Unlike surgery using general anesthesia, awake labiaplasty can be performed in-office in as little as 30 to 45 minutes. There is no need for post-operative monitoring after the procedure while you “come down” from the effects, and patients do not have to contend with the period of fatigue, drowsiness, or nausea that commonly occurs following general anesthesia. General anesthesia also usually requires an hours-long procedure since there are extra steps that need to be taken during the treatment process.
Awake labiaplasty can generally offer a more affordable and convenient procedure on top of a faster recovery period, but this approach may not be for every patient. Dr. Goldberg would be happy to discuss awake labiaplasty with you in person if you’re interested in this technique.
How Long Is Recovery From Labiaplasty?
Your comfort and results are our highest priorities, and we will make every effort to enhance your experience from start to finish. Soon after the operation is complete, you should be able to return home, where you are encouraged to relax and recover. Most patients can return to work and normal activity within a few days to a week, although you should limit the time you spend seated for optimal results. Some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are to be expected, and we will provide medication to manage your pain. Dissolvable sutures are usually placed, so you shouldn’t need to worry about having stitches removed. You should also avoid sexual intercourse for six weeks.
How Long Do Labiaplasty Results Last?
Labiaplasty is designed to enhance the labial contours for a lifetime. While the effects of aging and menopause will continue, the excess tissue removed during the procedure is gone forever. In order to prevent additional tissue inelasticity after your procedure, we encourage patients to only undergo labiaplasty after there are no future plans to have children. Women who receive labiaplasty generally report significantly more comfort and confidence in situations that previously caused discomfort or self-consciousness due to stretched labial tissue.
Does Labiaplasty Hurt?
While the vaginal area is very sensitive, most patients experience minimal pain after a labiaplasty. We use a long-lasting anesthetic to minimize discomfort, and we will provide oral pain medication to manage any remaining irritation. Avoiding sitting for long periods can also help to reduce soreness while healing. We will monitor your progress as you recover to ensure your results are developing as anticipated. If you have any questions, we are here to help. Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any concerns.
How Much Does Labiaplasty Cost In The NYC Area?
Every treatment plan is customized to optimize the outcome, and therefore the price of labiaplasty can vary from person to person. We will review your program during your initial consultation, including discussing the estimated cost of your procedure. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of labiaplasty in 2020 was $3,053. This number only includes the surgeon’s fee and does not account for hospital facility or anesthesiology expenses. Labiaplasty typically is a simple procedure and can be completed under local anesthesia in the office, which generally costs about $5,000 at our practice. If general anesthesia is needed, the cost is closer to $6,000. If you’re interested in considering a payment plan, we work with a number of reputable medical lenders that offer plastic surgery financing to eligible applicants. Our medical team can provide additional information at your first visit.
Bothered by feminine discomfort? We can help. Talk to our discreet and compassionate medical team to learn more about labiaplasty and its benefits.