Labia Reduction

Among the many procedures in demand at a Plastic Surgeon's practice, Labiaplasty has become popular. Many women feel uncomfortable with the appearance of their genitalia and never thought that an easy solution was reachable. This can be embarrassing, uncomfortable and can lead to sexual dissatisfaction and difficulty. In the past the only option was to have your OBGYN cut the extra skin off, leaving bad scarring and possible problems. Magazines of sexual content have brought a new awareness as to the sex appeal of the vagina. It is not just about appearance; often time's women complain about pain and discomfort caused by the extra skin folds.

This surgery can be performed in office usually under general anesthesia. The procedure takes around an hour and the patient will go home the same day. After surgery some women may experience some mild discomfort and swelling which usually disappears in two to three weeks. Labia incisions usually heal quickly and are rarely noticeable. After the procedure you will wear a panty liner, the sutures dissolve so there is no need for physical removal and you are also advised to avoid vigorous exercise for 2 weeks and vaginal intercourse for 6 weeks. A daily bath or gentle shower insures quick healing which is usually achieved in two weeks.

It is important to be realistic about your expectations and to talk to Dr. Hochstein about any concerns. In most cases the surgery is virtually undetectable with complete healing and patients are extremely pleased with final results.

Labiaplasty is an external cosmetic procedure only.

Labiaplasty is the surgical term used to describe the reduction of the labia minora which is a part of the female external genitalia. This procedure has become much more popular and I have seen a greater demand for this surgery in the Miami area.

Redundant or elongated labia are a result of several factors. Some women are born with this condition. It can also be a result of prolonged trauma or as a result of child birth. It is also a factor of aging.

This surgery addresses both functional and cosmetic needs. Protuberant and thickened labia can result in chronic irritation and discomfort. This can be exacerbated by tight clothing and physical activities. Aesthetically, enlarged or asymmetric labia can cause self consciousness sexually and when wearing tight clothing. A small labia minora is considered to be more attractive thus inspiring one's self esteem and confidence. This youthful appearance is attained in a very safe and reliable manner.

The old technique consisted of on amputation of the labia which was poor because of the obvious scarring and the damage to sensory nerves. The current technique entails a wedge excision finished in a horizontal removal at the base of the labia. This technique does not cause nerve damage, maintains the normal anatomy, and because the scar is in an almost invisible position which usually may not even be seen by the surgeon who performed the surgery. This is the only way to accurately re-approximate the pigment border of the labia.

Recent data has shown what I have already seen in my practice in Miami Florida, which is that this surgery has a satisfaction rate higher than most of the cosmetic surgeries in the greater 90% range.

By Dr. Leonard M. Hochstein, M.D.,P.A.