Labia minora contouring (sometimes called “labiaplasty” or “labial reduction”) is fast becoming a very popular procedure for women. Although the labia can vary in size, color or symmetry, some women are born with enlarged labia and others develop the enlargement with childbirth or age. Regardless of the cause, this enlargement can cause embarrassment in tight clothing, a swimsuit or with a sexual partner, and can cause discomfort with clothes, sex or exercise. For these reasons, a labiaplasty is a great option for women today.

The goal of a labiaplasty is reduce the length and width of the labia, to create a more youthful appearance more in balance with the surrounding tissues. The procedure involves incisions vertically along the edge of the labia as well as transversely along the inside of the labia. This approach allows for maximum control of the contour, shape and color matching of the labia while reducing the risk of sensitivity or irritation that can occur with other techniques. At your consult, Dr. Salemy will go into further detail with you as to the specifics of the procedure. All of the sutures used dissolve over time, and in general, the procedure takes about 90 minutes and patients go home the same day.

We ask patients to avoid heavy activities (including working out or running) and sexual intercourse for 6 weeks after the procedure in order to allow the healing process to complete. Most patients feel quite good within a few days and return to work within 5-7 days. During the first 2 weeks, it’s important to keep the incisions clean and our nurses will discuss this with you at your visit.

The risks of this procedure are very small, but just like any surgery there is the risk of bleeding, infection, discomfort, cosmetic dissatisfaction, and need for a touch up procedure. While these risks exist, we’ve been very happy with the feedback of our patients and the results we’ve been able to achieve. (read about the experience of one of Dr. Salemy’s labiaplasty patients at: http://bit.ly/wSS0TD