Labial Reduction

Labial reduction is one surgical procedure within the group of procedures that comprise labiaplasty. Labiaplasty is a cosmetic surgery that alters the appearance of the outer area of the genitals in women. Labial reduction is often included in labiaplasty to reduce the size of the inner or outer labia as part of what is frequently referred to as a beautification procedure. Labial reductions are increasing in popularity, though there are many risks involved in the procedure.

History

• Labial reduction surgeries have been performed since the 1960s when they were generally used as part of vaginal reconstructive surgery, in which the vaginal walls were reformed to return them to their original tightness after childbirth. Independent labial reduction surgeries were marketed to woman as part of vaginal beautification; plastic surgeons began performing labial reduction surgeries by simply removing excess skin from the inner or outer labia. However, many women experienced scarring or difficult healing as a result. In 1999, surgeons began performing labial reduction surgeries using lasers, which improved healing and minimized scarring.

Procedure

• Prior to a labial reduction procedure, the patient undergoes a thorough screening process and consultation with a plastic surgeon to determine a candidate's eligibility. Patients may be asked to quit smoking prior to the procedure. During the surgery, patients are placed under anesthesia. A surgeon uses a scalpel or laser to remove the desired amount of skin from the inner or outer labia; surgeons may also employ liposuction techniques to reduce the size of either set of labia. If sutures are needed to close the incisions, usually the surgeon will use stitches that will dissolve over time. Most labiaplasty procedures are performed in an outpatient setting, and the patient is able to go home the same day.

Time Frame

• The screening and consultation phase may take several weeks depending on the availability of the surgeon; the procedure may need to be scheduled several weeks or months in advance, though long wait times are uncommon because most labial reduction surgeries are outpatient procedures. The actual surgery averages approximately two hours barring any unforeseen complications. Recovering patients usually take about two to three months to heal completely; swelling and bruising can persist for several weeks, though bleeding and acute pain typically end within one week.

Function

• Labial reduction procedures are largely done for cosmetic reasons. Women who have labial reduction surgery report feeling that their labia appear too large. Many women who have labial reduction procedures in conjunction with a full labiaplasty or vaginal rejuvenation do so after giving birth. Women with enlarged labia may feel self-conscious about the look of their labia and opt for surgery to quell their discomfort.

  Some women report that their enlarged labia causes pain during intercourse or in some types of tight fitting clothing. In these cases, labial reduction aims to reduce discomfort caused by large labia.

Controversy

• Like any surgical procedure, labial reduction surgery carries a range of risks including pain, bleeding, infection and reactions to anesthesia. However, labiaplasty procedures often require follow-up procedures to monitor swelling and healing because of the sensitive location of the surgical area. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists does not endorse labiaplasty procedures and officially states that any claims that labial reduction surgeries are routine or accept procedures is deceptive. Opponents of labial reduction surgery maintain that the popularity of so-called "designer vaginas" is fueled by an aggressive marketing campaign that relies on poor body image for clients. Still, plastic surgeons and women who have had labial reduction surgery argue that it is a safe option for women who are uncomfortable with their bodies.