A woman’s vaginal area can change a great deal over the course of a lifetime. While some women naturally have large, asymmetrical, or long labia from the time that they’re born, other’s become this way as a result of childbirth, weight fluctuation, or the natural aging process. If you’re feeling self-conscious about the appearance of your vaginal area and are interested in undergoing a labiaplasty, don’t settle for less than the best care. eSSe plastic surgery’s Dr. Laura Sudarsky is an extensively trained, female plastic surgeon who has years of experience performing labiaplasties.
Located in Fort Lauderdale FL, eSSe Plastic Surgery is committed to delivering our clients precise, high-quality, and comprehensive patient-centered services. For more information about our practice or any of the services we offer, contact us today.
What Is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure focused on reshaping or reducing the labia, often the labia minora, or the inner folds of tissue surrounding the vaginal opening. It’s often performed to address concerns like discomfort during physical activities, irritation, or dissatisfaction with appearance. Whether your goals are functional, aesthetic, or both, this procedure can give you results while prioritizing your comfort and safety. We take the time to ensure you understand the process and feel confident in your decision.
What Can Labiaplasty Address?
Large Labia
A labiaplasty can reduce the size of the labia minora if they extend beyond the labia majora. While having large labia minora is not abnormal, some women wish to reduce the size. Sometimes, addressing excess tissue can also make everyday activities more comfortable.
Asymmetry of Labia Minora or Majora
Natural variations in the size and shape of the labia are common, but noticeable asymmetry can sometimes cause self-consciousness or irritation. This procedure can correct asymmetry by sculpting the labia minora or labia majora to create a more balanced appearance.
Improved Comfort
Irritation, pinching, or discomfort can occur when the labia are larger or uneven, particularly during exercise, cycling, or prolonged sitting. Labiaplasty can address these issues by reducing excess tissue.
Enhanced Enjoyment During Intercourse
Excess labial tissue can sometimes lead to discomfort during intercourse and make intimacy less enjoyable or even painful. For some women, large labia can also affect confidence during intimate moments. By refining the size and shape of the labia, this procedure can help reduce physical and emotional discomfort and enhance your experience.
What Causes Large Labia?
The appearance of the labia varies widely from person to person, with a range of sizes, shapes, and colors—all of which are normal and healthy. While some individuals are perfectly comfortable with their natural anatomy, others may feel self-conscious or experience discomfort due to the size or shape of their labia. It’s important to know that your concerns are valid, and we are here to provide support and guidance for your situation.
- Puberty: Hormonal changes during puberty can lead to the growth of the labia, with some individuals noticing an increase in size or changes in shape during this time. These changes are a natural part of development, but for some, they may result in discomfort or aesthetic concerns that persist into adulthood.
- Childbirth: Vaginal childbirth can stretch and reshape the labia due to the pressure and strain on the vaginal area during delivery. In some cases, this stretching can result in enlarged or irregularly shaped labia, which may cause discomfort or dissatisfaction with the appearance.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal fluctuations and increased blood flow to the pelvic region during pregnancy can cause the labia to swell or enlarge. While these changes often subside postpartum, some individuals may find that their labia remain larger or have a different shape than before pregnancy.
- Weight Changes: Significant weight gain or loss can affect the distribution of tissue in the body, including the labia. Fluctuations in weight may lead to changes in size or appearance, which could contribute to discomfort or dissatisfaction for some individuals.
Genetics: The natural size and shape of the labia are largely determined by genetics. If other family members have prominent labial tissue, you may be more likely to experience a similar appearance.
What is a Labiaplasty Procedure Like?
This procedure is performed on an outpatient basis in the comfort of our Fort Lauderdale office. Typically, it takes 1-2 hours to complete. During surgery, we concentrate on three main types of aesthetic alteration: labia minora reduction, labia majora reduction, and clitoral hood reduction.
- Labia Minora Reduction: This involves removing excess tissue from the inner lips of the vulva. It usually also involves reshaping the area.
- Labia Majora Reduction: This form of labiaplasty focuses on reducing excess tissue in the outer lips of the vagina. It typically also includes some reshaping of the area.
- Clitoral Hood Reduction: This part of labiaplasty is necessary if the clitoral hood is too large. During surgery, excess skin is trimmed away to expose more of the clitoris.
At eSSe Plastic Surgery, there are two primary techniques that we use during Labiaplasty: Trim Technique and Wedge Technique.
Trim Technique
The trim technique is exactly what it sounds like. It is an approach whereby the excess tissue at the edges of the labia minora are cut away—“trimmed” to a more desirable shape and size.
I recommend the trim technique to patients whose labia have uneven or discolored outer edges. I also recommend it to patients coming in for combination labiaplasty and clitoral hood reduction, because one incision can be used to complete both procedures at once.
The trim technique can be a very effective way of reshaping and renewing the labia minora. However, when performed by an inexperienced surgeon, this method can lead to loss of sensation, stiffness, and discomfort at the incision.
Wedge Technique
The wedge technique involves removing a wedge-shaped section of tissue from the middle third of the labia and then stitching the top and bottom sections of the labia back together.
I recommend the wedge technique to patients whose labia are asymmetrical or have an excess of tissue (and do not have issues along the labial edge)
This technique preserves the labial edge (making for more natural-looking results), keeps the tissue color aligned and since the incision is an interior one, less stress is placed on the stitches as the patients heal, which reduces the potential for post-surgical complications. The wedge is a more elegant form of labiaplasty. However, if the closure breaks down—which sometimes happens—it can cause a gap in the labia that will have to be addressed through a second surgery.
Ultimately, as you can see, the labiaplasty technique you choose should be selected based on both your unique anatomy and your desired results. As a plastic surgeon who performs an average of two to three labiaplasties per week, I have the knowledge to help you choose the technique that’s right for you—and the experience and skill to get you the fantastic results you deserve. To learn more, check out our videos on the eSSe Plastic Surgery channel on youtube.com!
What Happens Before Your Labiaplasty?
During your consultation, we’ll take the time to understand your concerns, goals, and medical history. This includes discussing any discomfort or aesthetic preferences you may have, along with reviewing your overall health to make sure you’re a good candidate for surgery. We’ll perform a physical exam to evaluate the labia and explain how the procedure can be customized. This is also the time to ask any questions you may have about the surgery, recovery, or outcomes.
Before your surgery, you may need to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, to reduce the risk of bleeding. If you smoke, we’ll advise you to stop several weeks before surgery to promote healing and avoid smoking again until the area completely heals. We may also provide instructions for pre-surgical hygiene and recommend arranging for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
A Closer Look at a Labiaplasty Procedure
Labiaplasty is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on your preferences and the complexity of the procedure. Once you are comfortably anesthetized, we begin by carefully marking the area to guide the incisions. The technique chosen—whether the wedge or trim method—will depend on the plan discussed during your consultation.
The surgery itself usually takes about one to two hours. Throughout the procedure, meticulous care is taken to minimize discomfort, maintain symmetry, and achieve your desired results. Absorbable sutures are often used to close the incisions, eliminating the need for suture removal later. Once the procedure is complete, a dressing is applied, and you’ll be monitored briefly before being discharged to recover at home.
What Is Labiaplasty Recovery Like?
Recovery from labiaplasty typically involves mild swelling, bruising, and soreness for the first week. Most patients find that these symptoms gradually improve over seven to ten days, with noticeable swelling resolving within a few weeks. To manage discomfort, you can use prescribed/recommended medications and apply cold compresses to the area as needed.
It’s important to avoid vigorous activities after vaginal rejuvenation surgery including exercise and heavy lifting, for about four to six weeks. You should also refrain from intercourse and tampon use for at least six weeks to allow the area to heal fully. Wearing loose clothing and breathable, cotton underwear can reduce irritation and promote comfort.
Keeping the area clean and following detailed aftercare instructions, such as using a peri-bottle instead of wiping, helps minimize the risk of infection. Attending follow-up appointments allows us to monitor your progress and promote proper healing.
Combining Labiaplasty With Clitoral Hood Reduction
A clitoral hood reduction is a procedure that reduces excess tissue surrounding the clitoris. This tissue, while protective, can sometimes create bulk or cover the clitoris in a way that limits sensation or contributes to aesthetic concerns. The reduction involves carefully trimming this tissue to enhance the appearance of the area and improve functional comfort without compromising sensitivity. During your consultation, we will discuss whether combining these two procedures is recommended.
Steps to Help You Prepare for Labiaplasty
- Pick Up Prescribed Medications Ahead of Time If antibiotics or pain medications are prescribed, it’s best to pick them up before your labiaplasty procedure. Having these on hand means you can start your recovery smoothly without needing to run errands after surgery. Be sure to follow the instructions provided for any medications.
- Arrange a Ride Home Since the labiaplasty procedure involves anesthesia, you won’t be able to drive yourself home afterward. Arrange for a trusted friend or family member to take you home and help you settle in. If needed, they can also assist with tasks during the first day or two of recovery.
- Stay Active While vigorous exercise is not recommended leading up to or immediately after your labiaplasty procedure, gentle activities like walking can promote circulation and overall wellness. Avoid high-impact workouts or activities that put pressure on the pelvic area, as these could interfere with your recovery.
- Keep All of Your Appointments Follow-up appointments are important since they help us monitor your healing and make sure everything is progressing as expected. Keeping these appointments is one of the best ways to support a successful outcome. You can call at any time in between appointments to ask questions or express concerns.
Labiaplasty FAQs
When Can I Expect My Final Results?
Swelling after labia reduction surgery typically subsides within a few weeks, but final results may take up to three months to fully develop. As the area heals and tissue settles, you’ll notice improvements in both appearance and comfort.
Is Labiaplasty Genital Mutilation?
No. Labiaplasty is an elective, medically accepted procedure performed to enhance comfort, functionality, or appearance. Unlike genital mutilation, which is a harmful and non-consensual practice, labia reduction surgery is a voluntary and personalized procedure that respects the patient’s goals and anatomy.
Will Labiaplasty Alter My Sexual Performance?
Labiaplasty does not negatively impact sexual performance. The labia minora is not involved in sexual sensation or orgasm. Addressing issues like discomfort or irritation caused by excess tissue can enhance physical comfort during intimacy. Sensitivity is preserved during the procedure, as we take meticulous care to avoid interfering with the clitoris or other sensitive structures.
Will I Have Visible Scars?
Scars from vaginal aesthetics surgery are typically minimal and well-hidden within the natural folds of the labia. Over time, they fade significantly and become nearly imperceptible. Proper aftercare, including avoiding activities that strain the area, can help scars heal as inconspicuously as possible.
How Long Will My Results Last?
Results from labiaplasty are generally long-lasting. Once the excess tissue is removed, it does not grow back. However, factors like aging, pregnancy, or weight fluctuations can affect the appearance of the labia over time. Maintaining a stable weight and avoiding factors that may stretch the tissue can help preserve your results.
How Much Does Labiaplasty Cost?
The cost of labia reduction surgery varies based on factors like the complexity of the procedure, surgeon expertise, and location. During your consultation, we’ll provide a detailed breakdown of costs, including any associated fees. Financing options may also be available to help make the procedure more accessible.
What Are the Risks of a Labiaplasty?
Like any surgical procedure, labiaplasty carries some risks, including infection, bleeding, scarring, or changes in sensation. These risks are minimized by following pre and post-operative instructions and choosing an experienced surgeon. During your consultation, we’ll discuss these risks in detail to ensure you feel informed and confident moving forward.
Am I a Candidate for a Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty should only be performed on fully developed adults because the labia continues to develop into a woman’s late teens. Good candidates are also those who are in good overall health and are non-smokers. Women usually undergo labiaplasties for one of two reasons: cosmetic or functional. While some women are simply unhappy with the external appearance of their vagina, others experience a great deal of physical discomfort because of the size and shape of their labia. This discomfort can affect their normal quality of life, as well as their sexual experiences. Patients interested in receiving a labiaplasty for either of these reasons are welcome and encouraged to schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Sudarsky.
About Your Surgeon
Dr. Tracey Stokes is a highly trained plastic surgeon dedicated to empowering women to look and feel their best. With an Ivy League education, including an undergraduate degree from Harvard University and medical school at Cornell University, Dr. Stokes has extensive training in plastic, reconstructive, and maxillofacial surgery. Her approach emphasizes open communication, trust, and collaboration and she makes sure every patient feels heard and confident in her care. Passionate about helping women prioritize themselves, she combines her personal and professional experiences to deliver results that enhance both confidence and well-being.
Building a Safe Place for Women’s Plastic Surgery
At eSSe Plastic Surgery, we are committed to creating a welcoming environment where women feel supported in their decisions, free from judgment or stigma. Recognizing that many women hesitate to seek cosmetic treatments due to cultural or religious concerns, we’ve taken thoughtful steps to ensure that every patient feels respected and secure. For patients undergoing female genital cosmetic surgery or any other treatment, we provide compassionate care that takes all of this into consideration.
Our practice celebrates diversity, offering accommodations for women of all faiths, backgrounds, and beliefs. Patients can expect to be cared for exclusively by our all-female staff for a comfortable and private experience. We aim to empower women by helping them feel confident and at ease while prioritizing their goals and values.
Schedule Your Labiaplasty Consultation in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Interested in undergoing this exciting, life-changing treatment? Don’t hesitate — contact eSSe Plastic Surgery today. We can answer any questions you may have about the procedure, and set you up with a consultation appointment to see if you’re a candidate. We look forward to hearing from you! You can get in touch with us through our online form or by phone at (954) 533-1671.