Labia Majora Reduction

The labia majora are the outer lips of the female genitalia. Labia majora reduction is also known as labiaplasty, and it is performed by a cosmetic surgeon. Factors such as aging, weight fluctuation and childbirth can cause the labia majora to become larger over time. Liposuction may help reduce the size, but if that fails, a woman may opt to have the labiaplasty surgery.

Procedure

• The labiaplasty is performed as an outpatient procedure by a trained plastic surgeon after an initial consultation and review of medical history. It takes approximately two hours for the actual surgery and is done under local anesthetic. During the procedure, the labia is cut and shortened using a scalpel, special scissors or a laser. The surgeon will then suture the labia using dissolving stitches.

Cost

• Costs vary from surgeon to surgeon but can range from $5,000 to $10 000. This cost includes anesthesia, the surgeon's fees and the facility's fees. Potential patients will need to check with their insurance companies to determine if they will cover any or all of the cost. If the size of the labia majora is causing pain during sex or daily activities, it may be covered by health insurance. If insurance will not cover it, speak to the surgeon's facility about available payment options.

Recovery

• The genital region will be sore and swollen for several weeks following the procedure, and sexual intercourse will be restricted for at least four weeks. Strenuous exercising is to be avoided for at least three week, and tampons are not to be used for ten days. Some bleeding can occur, so a pad should be worn for up to a week. The final result will be noticeable in two to three months.

Risks

• According to a 2007 statement issued by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the risks far outweigh the benefits of vaginal cosmetic surgery. As with all surgical procedures, there is the risk of infection, adverse reaction to anesthesia, bleeding, clotting and scarring. The labia majora reduction may also cause decreased feeling in the area, pigment changes, asymmetry between the labia majora and the labia minora, pain and sexual dysfunction.

Considerations

• This procedure is best performed on fully developed women. It is recommended that all aspirin, non-steroidal pain relievers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, and any other blood thinners are avoided before surgery, as well as certain herbal supplements. Follow the surgeon's preoperative advice on what medications and supplements are safe. Good questions to the surgeon before scheduling the procedure include: "What happens if I am unhappy with the results?" and "Are my expectations reasonable?" Questions about how long the surgeon has been in practice and how many times he has performed this procedure can also quell anxiety.