Five Things Every Woman Should Know About Vaginal Cosmetic Surgery
Vaginal cosmetic surgery is far from a fad. Last year, according to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, more than 8,500 labiaplasty procedures were performed; that is an increase of 16% from 2014. So, how much do you really know about this life-changing procedure? Could it be the right technique for you? Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery is here to share the five things every woman should know about vaginal cosmetic surgery:
1. You may not need a labiaplasty.
No labia or vulvas are the same; some are large while some are small. There is an assumption of ‘normalcy’, perpetuated by the media and popular culture, that can make a woman feel subconscious about her shape and appearance. This is why the vaginal rejuvenation consultation at Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery is so important. Taking into account a variety of factors, including issues with the physical shape of the labia and any discomfort experienced, Dr. Vitenas can help to determine if a labiaplasty is the right technique for your situation.
2. There are many reasons a labiaplasty is performed.
Some women arrive at the cosmetic surgeon’s office unhappy with how their labia looks, with diminished self-confidence over an asymmetrical, large, or poorly formed labia. However, remember there is more to a labiaplasty than aesthetics. At times, the labia minora may be so voluminous that tampons are difficult to put in place. Tight clothing may rub and chafe. Sex can also be uncomfortable due to misshapen labia. Enlarged labia can, in some instances, make personal hygiene more difficult, further adding to irritation and infections.
3. A labiaplasty is a complex, yet fast, surgical procedure.
There are many techniques for vaginal cosmetic surgery. This delicate area requires in-depth knowledge of the female anatomy, an understanding of cutting-edge techniques, and a natural artistic eye. Depending on the individual patient’s needs, the surgeon will either remove a small part of the labia or remove excessive tissue, before resizing and reshaping the area. To properly perform a labiaplasty, a skilled and experienced surgeon is needed. Even so, most procedures only take from 30 minutes to an hour.
4. You cannot wear a tampon or have sex for 6 weeks after a labiaplasty.
While there is little downtime following a labiaplasty, women need to understand all the recovery process entails. Most ladies are back at work in a day or two following their labiaplasty. Dr. Vitenas will use dissolvable sutures, so these do not need to be removed. A tight garment will need to be worn so the labia does not become irritated rubbing on clothing. You may be put on an antibiotic regime, as well, to avoid any infection. For the first four to six weeks, you should avoid placing a tampon inside of the vagina and postpone sexual intercourse. As soon as the labia has fully healed, these activities can be resumed.
5. A labiaplasty is generally not covered by insurance
Unfortunately, a labiaplasty is considered a cosmetic procedure, and therefore is not covered by most insurance plans. Even if there is pain or discomfort under tight clothing and during sexual activity, unless there is a medical problem, insurance may not pay. Contact your insurance company or speak with a patient coordinator to check on benefits, to find out if there will be coverage. Medical financing is available from Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery, to help make the labiaplasty affordable on any budget.
Are you ready to get more information on vaginal cosmetic surgery? If so, contact Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery at 281.606.0007 to schedule a vaginal rejuvenation consultation with Dr. Vitenas. We are happy to answer your questions and help you decide if a labiaplasty or vaginoplasty is right for your situation. For those outside of the Houston area, virtual consultations are also available.