What is Labia Surgery?
Labia surgery is a surgery that in recent years has gained much popularity. Because today, women’s genitals have acquired greater aesthetic attention. While not all labia surgeries are related to aesthetics, many women feel discomfort, irritation, or have repetitive infections due to the increased size of the labia or the excess of skin in the genital area.
The basic concept of labia surgery is as follows:
Women have two pairs of lips on the exterior portion of their reproductive system. They are called the labia minora and the labia majora.
The labia minora has two lips that are positioned on either side of the entrance to the vagina. These lips function as a protective barrier to the interior of the vagina.
The labia majora also has two lips, and they are positioned on the outermost part of the vulva. These two lips bulge with fat on the inside and are a part of sexual stimulation during intercourse.
Typically both sets of these lips should be the same size and thickness. However, that is not always the case. One of the most common genital surgeries is the labia minora labiaplasty, which consists of trimming the excess lips on one or both sides to achieve a smaller size, reduce discomfort, and improve appearance.
It is also not uncommon for the labia majora to atrophy, creating an atrophic appearance. The result is somewhat similar to a deflated mattress. This issue is seen frequently in patients who have lost weight and have sagging skin, or it can be caused from changes in age.
Before any labiaplasty surgery, it is necessary to have a doctor-patient discussion about the procedure. The patient must explain and describe the genital image they are looking to achieve. Since the process involves injecting fat into the labia majora or removing the skin – visual confirmation of what the patient wants to see is vital for a successful surgery.
Recovery after surgery requires moderate care. This includes keeping the surgery area clean and dry while only washing carefully with mild soap. You should also refrain from strenuous activity for 3 to 5 days after surgery and wait at least four weeks to resume sexual activity.
If the procedure includes sutures – there is no need to remove them. They will naturally fall out over time, and pain should be managed with Tylenol, Ibuprofen, or Naproxen.
Sexuality can be very complex, and the appearance of a female’s reproductive system can be closely related to self-confidence and sexuality for a woman. Feeling good and physically comfortable with their body may help women relax and orgasm more easily.
Just as it is essential to attend to aesthetic issues that can cause emotional distress, such as the nose, ears, or even body contour, it is also necessary to feel comfortable about your genitalia.
If you want to know more, contact us or schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Javier Saldaña to help you decide on the different surgery options to address your concerns.
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Dr. Javier Saldaña
Dr. Javier Saldaña is a board-certified OBGYN that practices at VIDA Clinic in Tijuana. He specializes in Vaginal Surgery, Laser Vaginal Surgery, Urinary Incontinence & more. He is certified by the Mexican Council of Gynecology & Obstetrics and The Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation Insitute of America en Beverlyhills, Los Angeles, California.