Some women feel dissatisfied with their labia minora. Procedures to improve the appearance and function of a woman’s vulvar tissues are important for both personal esteem and physiologic function. With the trend of minimal to no hair in the pelvic area, women are more aware of the appearance of the labia. This can be an important issue regarding their self-esteem and sexual self-confidence.
Enlargement of the labia can lead to discomfort when wearing certain clothing, exercising or having sex. The goals of the labiaplasty are the re-sculpt the labia to reduce size, improve evenness, increase sexual self-esteem, increase comfort in fitted clothing, and for some repair the effects of childbirth and the aging process.
Labiaplasty is performed in-office under local anesthesia using the highly precise and minimally invasive Ellman Surgitron device. This device is a magnitude less invasive than any laser and has dramatically decreased scarring compared to using traditional methods. Dr. Bradley uses a special reconstructive plastic surgery technique to reduce the labia to a more appealing, and more comfortable, size and shape. Labial reduction is customized to the individual needs and expectations of the patient. In most cases, it is virtually undetectable after complete healing, and patients are extremely pleased with results.
What are some of the issues that this procedure can address?
- Feelings of self-consciousness that can interfere with intimacy
- Personal dissatisfaction with the appearance of the labia
- Discomfort or bulky appearance in bathing suits, yoga pants or other tight clothing
- Chafing and discomfort in a wide range of physical activities, including walking, running or biking.
- Difficulty inserting tampons
- Pinching and discomfort during sexual intercourse.
- Asymmetry, with one side larger than the other
How is the procedure performed?
The tissue is re-sculpted using the Ellman Surgitron, a radiofrequency device that has a cool tip. This state-of-the-art instrument produces excellent results with minimal post-operative swelling and minimal to no scars.
What is the recovery timeframe?
Patients will experience soreness and minor swelling for the first 3-5 days. Most regular activities can be resumed after one week, excluding strenuous activities. For six weeks following the procedure, patients should avoid sexual intercourse and exercise.
When can patients resume having sex?
Patients can resume sexual activity after six weeks.
Should I wait until I have completed my family before I consider labiaplasty?
Patients don’t have to wait until they have finished having children to consider labiaplasty. As long as healing is complete, childbearing should have no apparent effect on the labia.
Is Dr. Bradley trained specifically for this procedure?
Yes, Dr. Bradley completed the Advanced Master’s Surgical Preceptorship in Aesthetic Vulvovaginal Surgery at the Alinsod Institute for Aesthetic Vulvovaginal Surgery. She is a board-certified OB/GYN and a Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgeons.
