Are you familiar with the procedure called labiaplasty? If you’re not, don’t feel alone – not everyone has heard of it. Let’s start at the beginning with a definition. Labiaplasty is commonly referred to as “vaginal rejuvenation”, which is classified as an out-patient surgical, elective healthcare procedure. The procedure reduces the size of the skin (labia) that surround the urethra and vagina. Even though you might not have heard of it, labiaplasty is a common procedure. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) reports that around 10,000 labiaplasty procedures are done annually.

What are the labia? It’s the two folds of skin that surround the vagina opening. The labia majora (large lips) is the outer fold that is fleshy. Its main purpose is to protect the genital organs and after puberty, becomes the home of your public hair. Labia Minora (small lips) are the inner folds of skin whose job is to protect the urethra opening and vagina.

Why get a labiaplasty? Patients can opt for this procedure for comfort, cosmetic or gender reasons. As for the comfort factor, when the labia are enlarged, the added folds of skin can cause irritation resulting is discomfort during regular physical activities such as exercise and intercourse.

Or perhaps asymmetry is the issue where one side of the labia is not symmetrical with the other side. If this is the case, a labiaplasty will reshape the labia eliminating unsightly bulges and visual lines sometimes referred to as “camel toes.“ For gender affirmation, existing genital tissue can be used to shape and create a labium.

There are many reasons why a woman may opt for a labiaplasty. An enlarged labia can be a result of:

• Childbirth
• Menopause
• Hormonal changes
• Weight changes
• Genetics

And can cause:

• More frequent urinary infections
• Decreased sexual satisfaction

There are as many benefits of having a labiaplasty as there are causes. The main benefits however, are improved confidence and increased sexual pleasure. Others benefits include less discomfort and improved hygiene.

If a labiaplasty doesn’t sound “right” for you, you may want to look into a Mona Lisa procedure.

The Mona Lisa procedure uses a CO2 laser to revitalize vaginal tissue and stimulate collagen growth. Read more about the Mona Lisa procedure here on our website.

Interested in more information about a labiaplasty or the Mona Lisa procedure? Set up a Virtual Visit Consult with us to discuss all aspects, including anesthesia, pre and post operative instructions, etc. We’re here to answer your questions.