Labiaplasty
As an experienced plastic surgeon, Dr. Cassie Hartline works to empower patients to feel confident in their bodies. She takes the time to ensure each patient feels safe and supported through each step of their personalized treatment plan. For women who would like to change the appearance of their labia, Dr. Hartline offers labiaplasty in Houston and The Woodlands, TX.
What is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure designed to reshape and reduce the size of the labia minora (the inner lips of the vulva) or the labia majora (the outer lips). Labiaplasty has aesthetic benefits and is considered a cosmetic procedure. However, women also often choose labiaplasty because overly large labia cause them physical discomfort or limit their ability to wear certain clothing or participate in some activities. Women who have given birth and experienced post-obstetrical tears may also be candidates for labiaplasty. Addressing a range of concerns, labiaplasty can restore comfort and confidence.
Benefits of Labiaplasty
- Enhanced Comfort: Labiaplasty can alleviate discomfort caused by enlarged or elongated labia, such as chafing, irritation, or pain during sexual intimacy or physical activities.
- Improved Aesthetics: Labiaplasty can help patients achieve a more symmetrical appearance and can improve visible signs of aging.
- Increased Confidence: By addressing physical concerns and achieving desired aesthetic results, labiaplasty often leads to improved self-confidence and body image.
Labiaplasty: What to Expect
Preparing for Labiaplasty
During your consultation appointment, Dr. Hartline will discuss your medical history, your concerns, and your expectations. She will also answer any questions that you have and explain all of your options. If labiaplasty is right for you, she will give you detailed preoperative instructions. Patients who smoke are required to quit all tobacco products prior to surgery.
Your Labiaplasty Procedure
Labiaplasty is typically an outpatient surgery performed with general anesthesia. Dr. Hartline will make small incisions and will then carefully reshape the labia to achieve the desired outcome, ensuring both aesthetics and functionality.
There are generally two approaches for
Trusted Source
What's the difference between a trim labiaplasty and a wedge labiaplasty?
American Society of Plastic Surgeons
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labiaplasty:
- Wedge Resection: In a wedge resection, a V-shaped wedge of tissue is removed from the central portion of the labia minora. This technique aims to preserve the natural edge of the labia while reducing excess tissue from the center.
- Trim Resection: In trim resection, excess tissue is removed from the entire length of the labia minora, typically along the outer edge. This technique can address a wide range of concerns.
Recovery After Labiaplasty
After labiaplasty, you may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated area. Patients can usually resume daily activities in one week, but you will need to avoid strenuous activities and sexual activity for several weeks. Dr. Hartline will give you postsurgical guidelines and schedule follow-up appointments.
Contact Us
Dr. Hartline and her team are here to answer any questions and help you make the decision that is right for you. The best way to learn more about your labiaplasty options is to schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Hartline in Houston or The Woodlands, TX. Contact us to schedule your appointment.
FAQs About Labiaplasty
Am I a candidate for labiaplasty?
There is no “normal” for labia size or shape—labia minora can range from less than ¼ inch to almost
Trusted Source
Measurements of a 'normal vulva' in women aged 15-84: a cross-sectional prospective single-centre study
Kreklau A, Vâz I, Oehme F, Strub F, Brechbühl R, Christmann C, Günthert A
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4 inches.
Labiaplasty may be right for you if you are bothered by the size and shape of your labia or if you experience physical discomfort due to large or long labia. Ideal candidates are in good general health and have realistic expectations.
Will I have scars after labiaplasty?
Due to the placement of the incisions and the texture of the skin in this area, scarring is usually undetectable once the incisions are fully healed.
Are the results permanent?
The results of labiaplasty are intended to be permanent, although factors such as aging and childbirth may affect the appearance of the genital area over time.
Can labiaplasty be combined with other procedures?
Yes, labiaplasty may be incorporated into a custom-tailored mommy makeover plan for comprehensive rejuvenation.
1 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. What’s the difference between a trim labiaplasty and a wedge labiaplasty? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/whats-the-difference-a-trim-labiaplasty-and-a-wedge-labiaplasty. Accessed April 29, 2024.
2 Kreklau A, Vâz I, Oehme F, Strub F, Brechbühl R, Christmann C, Günthert A. Measurements of a ‘normal vulva’ in women aged 15-84: a cross-sectional prospective single-centre study. BJOG. 2018 Dec;125(13):1656-1661. doi: 10.1111/1471-0528.15387. Epub 2018 Aug 1. PMID: 29940085.
Cassie Hartline M.D. has either authored or reviewed and approved this content
Page Updated: July 10, 2024