Labiaplasty in New York, NY
Women with disproportionately large or distended labia minora—the inner vaginal lips—often have anxiety surrounding their genital appearance. Labia minora protruding beyond the labia majora—the outer vaginal lips—may be considered unsightly and can cause discomfort for many women. Enlarged labia can be genetic, but it may also be caused by childbirth or aging. Labiaplasty is a safe and effective procedure that improves the size and shape of the labia minora to restore a woman’s confidence and comfort.
What Is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is a plastic surgery procedure that alters or reshapes the female genitalia—specifically the labia minora—to achieve the desired aesthetic or functional outcome. Although labiaplasty is often performed for cosmetic reasons to reduce the size or change the appearance of the labia, it can also correct functional issues, such as discomfort during physical activities or irritation from clothing.
Who Is a Candidate for Labiaplasty?
Women considering labiaplasty should be in good health and have realistic expectations about their results. The natural size and shape of the labia varies among women. While labiaplasty can be performed to improve the aesthetic appearance of the labia, many women choose to undergo surgery to restore their comfort. Reasons women might consider labiaplasty can include one or more of the following:
- Labia minora visibly protrude from the labia majora
- Noticeable labial profile in tight-fitting clothing
- Discomfort during intercourse
- Irritation during exercise
- Difficulty maintaining proper hygiene
How Is Labiaplasty Performed in New York, NY?
Labiaplasty in New York City is performed as an outpatient procedure. Most patients are comfortable using a local anesthetic, but some patients may require general anesthesia. The labiaplasty procedure involves removing excess labial tissue to improve the size and shape of the labia minora. Depending on your desired aesthetic look and the recommendation by your surgeon, one of the following techniques may be used.
Trim Method
The trim method removes tissue from along the outer edge of the labia minora and is ideal for patients who desire a brighter pink labial edge. This process excises the darker-colored tissue from the edge of the labia, leaving a pink edge that some women find to be more youthful in appearance.
Wedge Method
The wedge method is most suitable for patients who wish to maintain a more natural labial appearance. A v-shaped wedge of tissue is excised from each labial fold. The remaining tissue is then pulled closed and stitched together. The wedge method leaves the outer edge of the labia intact, preserving its natural color.
What Can I Expect During My Labiaplasty Recovery?
You will need to have someone drive you home after your labiaplasty procedure. Swelling and numbness of the vulva are typical following labiaplasty. Temporary loss of sensation may persist for up to two weeks. You should avoid physical activities for at least one week. You should also not swim or stay submerged in water for one month after your procedure to avoid getting an infection. Most patients can resume sexual contact after four weeks.
When Will I See My Labiaplasty Results?
Labiaplasty can improve your confidence, provide greater physical comfort, and enhance the appearance of your labia. Your labiaplasty from Dr. Cha can address the aesthetic and functional issues that you are experiencing. Following your labiaplasty procedure, you can enjoy a smaller, more uniform labia minora that significantly improves your self-image.
If you are looking to improve the appearance of your labia, please schedule your consultation with Dr. Eric Cha today. Contact our office at (212) 717-2222 or fill out our online contact form for additional information.
Labiaplasty FAQ
How much does labiaplasty cost in New York, NY?
The cost of labiaplasty in New York City will depend on various factors, including the extent of necessary revision, the specific technique Dr. Cha uses, other associated costs such as anesthesia and facility fees, and if you have combined your procedure with any others.
Your labiaplasty surgery in NYC will be customized for your specific needs. Dr. Cha will provide an accurate cost estimate for your labiaplasty procedure after your surgical plan has been established and agreed upon.
Can I combine labiaplasty with any other procedures?
Yes. Many of our Mommy Makeover patients choose to add labiaplasty to their procedures, as it is a fantastic option for restoring a woman’s body after childbirth or aging. It is also easily combined with other body contouring procedures such as abdominoplasty, breast augmentation, or breast lift surgery. If you want to combine other procedures with your labiaplasty, be sure to discuss your options with Dr. Cha during your consultation. He will adjust your surgical plan to incorporate multiple procedures if safety permits.
Can pregnancy affect my labiaplasty results?
While pregnancy does not always affect the labia, there is a chance that vaginal childbirth can stretch the labia minora. Hormonal changes and weight fluctuation associated with some pregnancies can also impact your results. For this reason, it is best to wait to undergo your labiaplasty until after you are finished having children; otherwise, you may need a secondary procedure.
Is labiaplasty painful?
Labiaplasty in NYC is performed on an outpatient basis using either local or general anesthesia so that you will feel no pain during the surgery. Most patients only experience mild discomfort during their labiaplasty recovery, which is easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Can labiaplasty affect sexual sensation?
Labiaplasty is generally designed to improve aesthetics or alleviate discomfort, and it typically does not impact sexual sensation. However, individual experiences may vary. It is essential to discuss any concerns you have during your consultation with Dr. Cha.
When can I have sex after labiaplasty?
Following your labiaplasty surgery, you must avoid putting any stress or pressure on the surgical site during the initial stages of recovery. You will need to avoid sexual activity, including vaginal intercourse, to allow for proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. This period generally ranges from four to six weeks. Dr. Cha will advise when it is safe to resume sexual activity following your labiaplasty surgery.
How long does labiaplasty take in New York, NY?
The length of time for the labiaplasty procedure in New York City will vary from patient to patient, depending on the extent of revision needed and whether labiaplasty surgery is combined with other procedures. In most cases, the trim method will take less time than the wedge method because it is a more complex technique requiring greater precision. During your consultation, Dr. Cha will give you a more specific time estimate for your labiaplasty procedure.
Will my labiaplasty results be permanent?
The results of your labiaplasty are intended to be long lasting. In many cases, labiaplasty results will last for years. However, plastic surgery cannot stop the natural aging process, and the skin and tissue will continue to age. Additionally, subsequent weight gain, hormonal fluctuations, and childbirth can adversely affect the results of your labiaplasty procedure. Following all of Dr. Cha’s postoperative instructions will help optimize your labiaplasty results.
Will labiaplasty leave scars?
Labiaplasty is a very precise procedure that requires great surgical skill. Dr. Cha is a board-certified plastic surgeon with decades of experience performing delicate procedures such as labiaplasty. Regardless, any time an incision is made, there is a chance of scarring. However, the incisions used for labiaplasty are very small, and if scarring does occur, it will be slight. With proper scar care, your labiaplasty scars should fade over time.