What’s Behind the Increase in Labiaplasty Procedures?
The latest data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) was released this past week, showing some surprising (and not so surprising) statistics. One of the most important changes in plastic surgery trends can be seen in the growing number of women seeing vaginal rejuvenation. Over the last year there was a 39% increase in the number of labiaplasty procedures, with more than 12,000 surgeries performed in the United States in 2016.
According to the ASPS President, Debra Johnson, “People used to not really see their parts down there, but nowadays with so many women waxing and shaving, they are just much more aware of what they look like, and so sometimes they feel self-conscious.” She continues, “Social media plays a huge role. Many times a person will start with a Google search to see if any one there has the same problem, and you have a whole cadre of people with the same concerns…and this allows you to hear about other stories and what they did and their experience.”
Top Four Reasons Women Seek a Labiaplasty
Aesthetics
The idea of a ‘normal’ labia is false, as every woman is different and unique. However, large or distended labia can look unusual, causing a loss of self-esteem and confidence. A labiaplasty can create smaller, more symmetrical labia that dramatically increase a woman’s confidence.
Less Noticeability
Yoga pants and leggings show a lot, but for women with distended labia, this may mean ‘everything’. A labiaplasty will bring the labia down to a more natural size, that does not protrude through tight, thin fabric like that of a swimsuit or yoga pants.
Painful Sex
Large labia can tug and pinch during intercourse, making sex painful. The labiaplasty or vaginal rejuvenation procedures will excise this excess tissue, eliminating the discomfort from yanking and pulling.
Friction Under Clothing
Excess labia tissue can continuously rub under tight underwear and clothing, such as jeans. This is uncomfortable, but can also cause the labia to become raw, inflamed, and even infected.
Every woman has her own, highly personal reasons for looking into vaginal rejuvenation. What is most important is that she is looking to please herself, not someone else. Johnson further explains, “To me, (the choice) has to be driven by the woman herself, that she is doing it for herself because she wants to feel more comfortable.” When guided by an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon, women of any age can determine if a labiaplasty is the right procedure for their individual needs.
Check out the full set of statistics from the ASPS, to learn more on the 17.1 surgical and noninvasive procedures performed last year. To get started towards your own labiaplasty procedure, find a board certified plastic surgeon in your area, and schedule a consultation appointment.
Dr. Paul Vitenas is Houston’s number one labiaplasty provider. Over decades of private practice, he has developed his own safe and effective techniques for the most satisfying vaginal rejuvenation procedures available. Read more on the Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery labiaplasty or call our office at (281) 606-0007.