When electing for a cosmetic procedure such as labiaplasty it helps to know how the surgery itself is performed. Knowing what to expect from your surgery can help put your nerves at ease and allow you to better understand how to prepare for the procedure. Below you will find helpful information and tips regarding the labiaplasty procedure.
What is labiaplasty?
First, you should know exactly what a labiaplasty procedure is. The reconstructive surgery known as labiaplasty removes excess labial tissue from the labia minora, more commonly known as vaginal lips. The surgery can also correct uneven labial tissue. When the labial tissue is elongated or enlarged it is often an effect of puberty, giving birth, or even genetics. This is referred to as labial hypertrophy.
While hypertrophy may cause self-consciousness or a lack of confidence in some women, more often than not the effects are physical. An elongated labia can be the cause of discomfort and pain during sexual intercourse. Tightly fitting clothing or swimsuits can also be uncomfortable to wear and can be a source of self-consciousness if the excess labial tissue is visible beneath the clothing.
Women that decide to go through with a labiaplasty will find that it’s a simple, gynecological procedure. The techniques for the surgery have improved drastically over the years and new technology and insight has led to better results. Labiaplasty procedures today are much less invasive than the procedures of the past when the surgery was still new.
Labiaplasty Techniques
A technological improvement in labiaplasty techniques that has greatly advanced the capabilities of the procedure is the use of lasers. Prior to this advancement, surgeries would just remove the excess tissue from the labia. Stitches were used in the cut area. This could lead to discomfort and a general stiffness. This technique, called the trim method, is still performed today. It’s best used along with a clitoral hood reduction procedure for patients that want the outer edge of the labia trimmed back due to discoloration issues. This enables both procedures to be done with minimal incisions.
The laser technique is great for labiaplasties that require small amounts of labial tissue. This significantly cuts back on the amount of time required to perform the procedure. The procedure itself is more precise and it reduces the risk of stiffness, discomfort, and long recovery times. When the purpose of your particular labiaplasty is to decrease discomfort the laser labiaplasty is often the best option.
Another technique for labiaplasty is called the wedge method. This method also has a variation referred to as the Z-incision. The wedge method is intended to reduce the discomfort caused trim procedures. The incision is made across the width of the labia instead of the edge. The interior incision is designed to put less stress on the sutures to allow for the scar to heal properly.
The Z-incision is the solution to the wedge method when the tension on the scar may cause a problem. In this case the incision is made in a zigzag pattern. This makes the scar less likely to cause discomfort from the tension. This method may also be referred to as Z-plasty.
Upon examination, an experienced and skilled surgeon will be able to recommend the right labiaplasty method for your individual needs. It’s important to work with a qualified surgeon that you can trust. Be open and honest about your expectations and goals for the procedure.
If you are ready for your labiaplasty or have more questions simply contact Dr. Arthur Shektman in Boston on (781) 239-0608 or fill out this online form to schedule your in-person consultation today.