Vulvar plastic surgeries, specifically labiaplasty procedures, are on the rise. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), 2016 was a banner year for labiaplasty ― a type of cosmetic surgery on the external portion of the female sex organ ― with more than 12,000 surgeries performed by ASPS members.
That represented a jump of about 39% from 2015. Overall, there was a 53% increase in procedures from 2013-2018. Despite the growing popularity, you may not know much about labiaplasty or vulvar plastic surgery.
In this blog, Dr. John Macey explains what’s involved in labiaplasty and how it may be able to help you. Dr. Macey, who has more than 27 years of experience as an OB/GYN and is board-certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology, offers comprehensive treatments for women of all ages at his state-of-the-art practice in Nashville, Tennessee,
A quick anatomy lesson
The word “vagina” is often used to describe the entire female sex organ. This is not accurate. The vagina is only the elastic, muscular canal that runs from the uterus to the external female genitalia. The external genitalia is called the vulva.
Included in the vulva is the labia. The labia consists of two “lips,” the labia majora ― or outer lips ― and labia minora ― or inner lips. The outer lips are typically fleshy and covered with pubic hair. The inner lips are typically thinner and run from the top of the clitoris to just under the vaginal opening. While some people have large outer lips, most people have inner lips that are longer and extend beyond their outer lips.
What is a labiaplasty?
A labiaplasty is a procedure that reduces the length of the inner lips. The goal is to make the inner lips equal in length or shorter than the outer lips, creating more of a “tucked in” appearance. During a labiaplasty, you’ll be sedated, and Dr. Macey will use a laser to trim and reshape the labia. The whole surgery should take 1-2 hours.
Reasons for a labiaplasty
You’ll sometimes hear labiaplasty referred to as “designer vagina” surgery, but there are more reasons than just cosmetic ones to have the procedure done. Potential reasons for labiaplasty include the following:
- Asymmetry
- Redundancy
- Twisting or tugging during certain activities
- Pain during intercourse
- Itching
- Irritation
- Chafing
- Appearance in clothing
Labiaplasty surgery is usually considered a cosmetic procedure not covered by insurance, but pain or irritation caused by a low-hanging labia may be covered.
Are you unhappy with your labia or does your labia cause irritation or pain? Dr. Macey may be able to help with labiaplasty. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with the practice of Dr. John Macey today.