Six Common Labiaplasty Misconceptions

Unless you are living with uneven, large, or oddly shaped labia, the idea of a labiaplasty may seem unnecessary or extreme. Unfortunately, most women struggle with the pain or embarrassment of misshapen labia quietly. This means that the physical pain and embarrassment, as well as the procedures for surgical correction, still carry unspoken myths and misconceptions.

This will not be the case for long, however. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the labiaplasty is one of the fastest growing cosmetic surgery procedures in the United States. Discussions about this technologically advanced procedure are increasing, and slowly, the misconceptions are falling by the wayside. Take a look at these six common labiaplasty myths debunked:

1. Excessive sex leads to a large, distended labia.

There are several things that can factor into misshapen, long labia, but sexual activity (no matter how often or how inventive) is not one of them. Genetics play a key part in the shape and size of the labia majora and labia minora, but the aging process and physical changes during childbirth are also factors.

2. The labiaplasty is painful.

Your first instinct may tell you that since the labiaplasty is dedicated to a delicate part of the body, the surgery must be painful. However, this is not true. Some discomfort is associated with any surgical procedure, but your surgeon will provide a local anesthetic to make the procedure pain-free and appropriate pain medications for a comfortable recovery.

3. A labiaplasty is only for aesthetic purposes.

Many women look to the labiaplasty to improve the appearance of their labia, restoring confidence during their most intimate moments. As large labia can be noticeable under swimwear and even tight yoga pants, the aesthetic portion of the procedure can be life changing. However, just as many women seek out a labiaplasty to decrease pain and discomfort caused by this excess tissue, as it rubs under tight clothes and pinches during sex.

4. Your gynecologists should perform the labiaplasty.

Your gynecologist is extremely knowledgeable about the health of your vagina, uterus, and hormonal cycles, however, he/she is not trained to perform cosmetic procedures. Only visit an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon when considering a labiaplasty. Always ask for credentials before going under the knife, because your cosmetic surgeon should have specialized training and years of experience performing surgical procedures of the labia or vagina.

5. After a labiaplasty, sexual stimulation is reduced.

There is no need to worry about reduced sexual stimulation following your labiaplasty. On the contrary, many women report enhanced sexual stimulation following their procedure. Remember, in actuality, the nerve endings responsible for sexual sensations are not located in the labia tissue, meaning there is little chance for these to be diminished at all. Coupled with newly found confidence in the body, a labiaplasty can result in a greater enjoyment of intimacy and sex.

6. Labiaplasty requires a long, difficult recovery.

You will need to postpone sexual activity for four to six weeks following your labiaplasty, giving the tissues time to fully heal. However, there is little discomfort or downtime following the procedure. Give yourself three to five days of TLC, and after this, most normal activities can be resumed.

There is no need to feel alone in deciding if a labiaplasty is right for you. Talk to Dr. Paul Vitenas about your individual situation and all of your labiaplasty options. Schedule an in-person or online consultation at Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery by calling 281.617.1838. With almost 30 years of labiaplasty experience, Dr. Vitenas can help you make the right labiaplasty choice for your situation.