Labiaplasty At a Glance
- Length of Surgery: Approximately one hour
- Procedure: Outpatient procedure; local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia
- Recovery: Two to six weeks
- Principle Benefits: Improved aesthetics and enhanced comfort
- Cost: $3750
What is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that can address the physical and cosmetic issues associated with enlarged or elongated tissues of the inner and/or outer labia (labia minora / labia majora). Women can be affected by redundant labia tissues at any age; however, the condition may further develop as a result of genetics, childbirth, aging, or menopause.
The procedure, also known as labial reduction surgery, reduces the size of the labia minora, creating an alignment with the labia majora that is either even or slightly hidden inside for improved comfort and aesthetics. Typically, labiaplasty may be performed using one of two main surgical techniques—either the wedge or trim method—as determined after a consultation and evaluation with your surgeon.
What Concerns Can Labiaplasty Treat?
Depending on the unique needs and goals of the patient, labiaplasty can help treat various concerns, including:
- Pain or discomfort caused by twisting and tugging of excess labial tissue
- Irritation and itching in the labia area
- Tenderness or distress during intercourse and/or when inserting tampons
- Chronic wetness during physical activities (ex: riding a bike)
Visible labia bulges in swimsuits, undergarments, and form-fitting clothing - Frequent urinary tract or yeast infections
As a female plastic surgeon, Dr. Hinojosa recognizes the severe physical and psychological impact these symptoms can have on daily life. Her goal for each labiaplasty patient is to provide a safe, effective outcome that supports a more vibrant, comfortable, fulfilled lifestyle.
What Does the Labiaplasty Procedure Involve?
Generally, labiaplasties are performed as outpatient procedures utilizing either local anesthesia with light sedation or general anesthesia. On average, the surgery may last approximately one hour, depending on the complexities of the procedure and overall treatment plan.
Dr. Hinojosa performs labiaplasties using either the “wedge” or “trim” surgical techniques, which can both provide an optimal outcome. The trim method removes the extra tissue from along the outside edge of the labia, while the wedge method removes a triangular piece of tissue from the labia and then connects the two edges. For patients with extra clitoral hood folds, the redundant skin may also be removed or reduced at the same time. Once the desired size and recontouring is complete, the incisions are precisely closed using absorbable sutures so there is no need for suture removal.
During an initial consultation, Dr. Hinojosa will evaluate the patient’s anatomy, concerns, and goals to create a customized treatment and surgical plan. For patients interested in more comprehensive physical rejuvenation after pregnancy, Dr. Hinojosa can discuss the option of including a labiaplasty in a mommy makeover, which combines two or more cosmetic enhancement procedures (tummy tuck, breast augmentation, etc.) into a consolidated treatment plan.
What is Labiaplasty Recovery Like?
Prior to the labiaplasty procedure, Dr. Hinojosa will provide detailed after-care instructions, which should be carefully followed to support a safe, successful recovery. Following surgery, patients should take prescribed medication only as directed. Patients are advised to attend all follow-up appointments to monitor the recovery process and signs of infection or adverse reactions.
Labiaplasty Recovery Timeline
Please note: Recovery time varies by patient. Contact our office or your physician if you have any questions or concerns about your recovery.
1 to 4 Days Following Surgery
May experience discomfort, swelling, soreness, and bruising
Apply cold compresses to the treated areas
1 to 2 Weeks After Surgery
May resume work and non-strenuous activity, as directed
Possible post-surgery itching may occur
2 to 4 Weeks After Surgery
May resume light activity, such as walking, but avoid cycling or swimming
Pain and discomfort should be alleviated
4 to 6 Weeks After Surgery
May resume wearing tighter-fitting clothing
Most swelling should fade after 6 weeks but residual swelling may last up to six months
6 to 8 Weeks After Surgery
May resume biking and swimming and can submerge in bathtubs / hot tubs
Cleared to use tampons and have vaginal intercourse, if the skin is completely healed
How Much Does Labiaplasty Cost?
On average, the cost of labiaplasty ranges between $3500-4000, but this is just an approximation, and each procedure’s final cost varies by patient. The total labiaplasty cost at Coastal Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery Center will include items such as the surgeon’s fees, surgical technique used, extent of the treatment, facility fees, anesthesia costs, and other factors. After your consultation with Dr. Hinojosa, our team will provide a personalized price quote based on your customized treatment plan.
Our practice also offers financing options through trusted third-party healthcare lenders PatientFi® and CareCredit®, which help qualified applicants pay for their treatment with low- or no-interest payment plans. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is happy to provide more information about these programs and answer any other payment questions you may have.
*This estimate is based on statistics reported by actual labiaplasty patients on RealSelf.com
Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about the labiaplasty procedure, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hinojosa, please contact Coastal Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery Center today.
Medical References for Labiaplasty:
RealSelf: Labiaplasty: What You Need to Know
ASPS: What is a labiaplasty?
Medical News Today: What to expect during recovery from labiaplasty
