Understanding the Different Types of Labiaplasty: Which One is Right for You?

You’ve probably heard of a tummy tuck, facelift, and liposuction, but what about a labiaplasty? It’s not as popular or common as other cosmetic surgeries, but more and more people are starting to ask about it.

And we’ve been listening – so, we’re going to break down everything you need to know about it below.

But before we get started, here’s a message from our very own Dr. Laura A. Sudarsky, MD:

“My goal for a woman who’s having labiaplasty surgery is to restore her self-esteem and to make her feel good about herself. I want women to feel comfortable coming to me for consultations regarding this area – and I want her to understand that it’s a non-judgmental, non-scary environment, and I’m going to look after her best interest at all times.”

So, what exactly is a labiaplasty?

A labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that alters the appearance of the labia minora (the inner lips of the vulva), labia majora (the outer lips of the vulva), or clitoral hood (the fold of skin that protects the clitoris).

It’s basically what a facelift is to the face – but for a woman’s genitalia.

Here at eSSe Plastic Surgery, we perform anywhere between two to three labiaplasty surgeries every week – right here in the comfort of our Fort Lauderdale office – and we can’t wait to tell you all about it.

Medical vs. Cosmetic: Reasons for Getting a Labiaplasty

There are a lot of reasons why women might be interested in labiaplasty surgery – some of which are medical, some of which are cosmetic – but most women simply want to feel better about themselves.

With that said, enlarged and/or asymmetrical labia are the two most common reasons today.

Some women are born this way, while others experience it as they get older – and that can be a result of the natural aging process, giving birth to a child (or children), weight fluctuation, or hormonal fluctuations.

So, what’s the problem with having enlarged labia?

For most women, there’s nothing medically wrong with enlarged labia, but some women might experience pain from twisting or tugging of the labia as they engage in physical activities (such as riding a bicycle).

Likewise, other women might experience discomfort during sexual intercourse.

But the most common issue women have with enlarged (or asymmetrical) labia is how it makes their genitalia look – with many women feeling self-conscious with their appearance in front of their lovers.

No matter what the reasoning is, women can sleep sound at night knowing that there’s a solution.

Trim vs. Wedge: The Two Types of Labiaplasty Surgery

Labiaplasty surgery is almost always performed on an outpatient basis – meaning a hospital visit isn’t necessary – and the procedure generally takes anywhere between one and two hours from start to finish.

The exact time frame depends on the scope and severity of the procedure, which varies patient to patient.

Here at eSSe Plastic Surgery, we have two different methods that we like to use when reshaping the labia – the trim and wedge techniques – and they each come with their own unique set of benefits and risks.

Let’s take a closer look at each one – that way, you know exactly what to expect when that day comes.

Trim Technique

The trim procedure is the original technique for labiaplasty surgery – as well as the most widely used. It’s when the excess tissue at the edges of the labia minora are trimmed to a more desirable shape and size.

We generally use this technique when the outer edges of the labia are uneven or discolored.

It’s also the most effective technique for combining labiaplasty surgery with clitoral hood reduction – mainly because one incision can be used to complete both procedures at once (two birds with one stone).

Wedge Technique

The wedge technique was introduced by Dr. Gary Alter in 1998. It’s when a wedge-shaped piece of tissue from the middle third of the labia is removed before stitching the top and bottom sections back together.

We generally use this technique when the labia are asymmetrical or the patient has an excess of tissue.

Many women prefer this procedure because it produces more natural results by preserving the outer, wrinkled edges of the labia. It’s a more elegant result, but a second surgery is sometimes necessary.

eSSe Plastic Surgery: Working With Mother Nature to Save You From Father Time

Do you feel self-conscous about the appearance of your vulva (vagina)? Is your labia minora larger or longer than your labia majora? Do you experience pain or discomfort while exercising or moving around?

If you answered ‘yes’ to any of those questions, then you’re not alone – but don’t worry, we can help!

Welcome to eSSe Plastic Surgery – where women can learn to love themselves (and their body) again.

There’s nothing we enjoy more than seeing the look on our patient’s face when they see the results of their labiaplasty surgery for the first time. It’s one of the main reasons why we love this surgery so much.

And since we do several of them every week, you can trust that your body is in the best hands possible.

Whether you’d like to learn more about the procedure or would like to see if you’re a good candidate for it, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with Dr. Laura A. Sudarsky, MD for your initial consultation.

We can answer any questions you might have, and can help give you a better idea of what the procedure is like and what you can expect to see when it’s all said and done. Contact us today at (954) 800-2163.