Protuberant labia, is a condition in women where the genital folds are excessively large or asymmetrical. Even though this part remains covered most of the time, it can create issues of low self-esteem and negative body image. Women become even more conscious if they have to wear body-hugging clothes or swimsuits. This condition can lead to physical discomfort during sexual intercourse too.

Why should you consider labiaplasty?

It is a specialized surgery for correcting irregular or overly large labial appearance, by toning down the outer folds of the labia minora, the tissue surrounding the vulva of the vagina. It serves both medical and aesthetic purposes, while boostingconfidence and helping her feel well emotionally and physiologically. Here are the reasons for undergoing labiaplasty:

• Oversized vaginal folds.
• Asymmetrical labia.
• For a firmer, toned vagina.
• Discomfort in physical activities due to the size or thickness of the labia.
• Discomfort when wearing tight clothes because of labial size.
• Labial disease or injury.
• Hanging or protruding labia.

The actual procedure

Labiaplasty demands intricacy but it is a minor surgery and performed as an outpatient procedure. The traditional method was to remove the excess skin by cutting it off, and sewing it up over the edge. But there was a major drawback – it left a long, vertical stitch line. An improved version is used these days where the protuberant skin is cut into a V-shape, while the upper and lower edges are stitched together. It is sutured efficiently to look like a tiny transverse line. At times, vaginoplasty is performed together with this procedure – it strengthens the vaginal walls and cavity.

Post-operation

Since the procedure is performed in a sensitive area, you might feel slightly uncomfortable after the surgery, but you can take pain medication subscribed by the doctor. Heavy exercises and sexual intercourse should be avoided for 3 to 4 weeks just after the surgery. If there is any swelling, it is temporary and heals quickly. Soluble stitches ensure the incisions are hardly visible after a few weeks.

As with any operation, there could be chances of bleeding, infection and scarring, but on minor levels only. If there is a possibility of under-correction, it can be taken care of by a second operation. That is why it is necessary to choose your surgeon carefully, after researching and verifying credentials. Dr. Usha Rajagopal is one of the most respected names in this field whose work speaks volumes about her skills, honed for more than 20 years. Call us or email to schedule an appointment!

Usha Rajagopal, MD sfcosmeticsurgery.com Phone: (415) 392-3333