What is Labiaplasty surgery?

In general, labiaplasty surgery involves the female perineum, which includes the vulva (labia majora and minora, and clitoris), perineal body (muscle between the vagina and anus), the vagina, and the anus. This anatomy  should look “normal” to a woman.
Enlargement or stretching of any of these tissues can lead to sexual dysfunction, difficulties with hygiene, and a less than feminine appearance. With menopause also comes the thinning and atrophy of the structures.

Plastic surgeons, in general, want to engage only in labiaplasty surgery, and  leave the vaginal reconstruction to the gynecologists. Labiaplasty surgeons usually confine themselves to repairing the labia major, labia minora and the clitoral hood. These structures can be altered by shortening them and also by filling them out to a more plump, youthful shape with fat.

Who is a good candidate for Labiaplasty surgery?

The best candidates for Labiaplasty surgery at Radiance Surgical Center in Pittsburgh are women who are experiencing pain or irritation, problems with hygiene, sexual dysfunction or are unhappy with their overall appearance. Patients who are not great candidates are those with very minor asymmetry or extreme sensitivity in the area.  During your initial consultation with Dr. Cherup, she will review your concerns, your medical history, examine you with a discussion of the abnormalitites,  and will discuss which surgical technique is the most appropriate for your labiaplasty.

What is the Labiaplasty surgery like?

Various techniques have been described for performing a labiaplasty. Most of these surgeries can be carried out under local sedation anesthesia, and last less than an hour.  Dr. Cherup believes the labiaplasty techniques that preserve the most sensation, and utilize scars that are the LEAST visible should be employed. In genereal, the clitoral hood, the length and width of the labia minora and majora, and the posterior commisure, can all be addressed.

When labiaplasty is performed by a trained and experience surgeon like Dr. Cherup, complications from surgery are  generally minor and infrequent. Like any surgery, a risk of infection exists but the experience staff of the Radiance Surgical Center in Pittsburgh will provide you with after care instructions. You can expect to feel some mild pain and swelling. Recovery takes 2 weeks.

Contact our office today to schedule your consultation!