Are you worried about the appearance of your labia? Let's learn about labiaplasty

As women, we often hesitate to talk about our private parts, don't we? There are people who are especially worried and uncomfortable about the appearance and size of their labia. Perhaps because of this, they feel pain during daily activities, while exercising, and even during sexual intercourse. Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that can solve such problems. Although this is a sensitive topic, it is very important to be open and aware of it. So, let's talk about everything today.

What is Labiaplasty simply?

Simply put, labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that reduces, enlarges, or changes the shape of your labia. It is often done to reduce physical discomfort. However, some people also have this surgery for aesthetic reasons.

Okay, now let's see what these labia are. There are two folds of skin around our vaginal opening.

• The outer folds (Labia Majora): These are the slightly larger, fleshy lips of the vagina. After puberty, hair grows in this area. Their main function is to protect the sensitive genitals inside.
• Inner folds (Labia Minora): These are the delicate, small folds of skin on the inside of the outer lips. They protect the urethra and the opening of the vagina.

During labiaplasty surgery, the surgeon will do one of the following, depending on your needs:

• To reduce the size of the labia, extra tissue is removed.
• To increase the size of the labia, a type of filler or fat taken from another part of your own body is injected.
• The labia are reconstructed using other tissues.

Why would someone consider having this kind of surgery?

There is no single cause for this. There can be many reasons, including medical, physical, psychological, and cosmetic. Sometimes it is done as part of other reconstructive surgeries. Let's break these reasons down.

What are the reasons for the change in size of the labia?

There is no single reason for this. Several factors may be involved.

• Puberty: Hormonal changes that occur with puberty can cause rapid growth of the labia.
• Pregnancy and childbirth: The labia can become stretched during pregnancy and childbirth.
• Menopause: Menopause or other hormonal changes can cause the tissue of the outer labia majora to thin.
• Weight changes: Weight gain or loss also affects this.
• Genetic causes: Sometimes this can be hereditary.

Typically, people who undergo this surgery are between the ages of 18 and 50. However, if you are hoping to have more children, you may want to consider waiting until after your family is complete, as the labia can re-emerge during childbirth.

What happens before the surgery?

If you decide to have this surgery, you will first have a long discussion with your surgeon.

• Discussing goals: Talk openly about why you decided to have this surgery, what your hopes are, and what results you want after the surgery.
• Risk awareness: As with all surgeries, your doctor will explain the risks to you.
• Mental preparation: You may also be given a psychological test to see how mentally prepared you are for this. You may be asked about conditions such as depression or anxiety.
• Details about the surgery: Explains how the surgery is performed, where the incisions are made, and how the shape and size of the labia change after surgery.
• Preliminary tests: You will be asked to do several tests such as blood tests, urine tests, and chest X-ray.

In addition, you will be given a series of instructions on how to prepare for the day of surgery, such as what clothes to wear, when to stop eating and drinking, and whether or not to temporarily stop taking any medications you are taking.

What happens on the day of surgery?

On the day of your surgery, you will be given a surgical gown to wear at the hospital. A nurse will then come in and check your vitals, such as your temperature, pulse, and blood pressure. An IV line may be placed in your arm, and a urinary catheter may be inserted if necessary.

Next, the area is thoroughly cleaned and, if necessary, hair is removed. Then, anesthesia is administered. Depending on the nature of the surgery, you may be given IV sedation to numb the area, or you may be given general anesthesia. Your doctor will discuss with you in advance which method is best for you.

What are the surgical methods?

The doctor will choose the surgical method based on the shape and size of your labia and the results you want. This is usually done using a scalpel, scissors or laser technology. There are two main methods.

Labia augmentation surgery

If you want to enlarge the outer labia majora, your doctor will take a small amount of fat from another part of your body, such as your abdomen or thighs, and inject it into the labia (through liposuction). Another option is to inject hyaluronic acid.

In all of these surgeries, the incisions are closed with absorbable stitches, which dissolve over time. This means that there is no need to have stitches removed again. Finally, the wound is covered with a clean bandage.

This surgery usually takes less than two hours. It is an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day.

What to expect after surgery?

After the surgery, as the anesthesia wears off and you regain consciousness, you will be in the observation ward. The nursing staff will check your wound for excessive bleeding. Before you are sent home, they will give you instructions on how to care for your wound until it heals, how to take painkillers, what to do and what not to do, and when you should see your doctor again.

What are the risks and complications of this surgery?

Complications are very rare, but as with any surgery, there are some risks.

• More or less tissue is removed than necessary.
• Bleeding.
• Bruising (hematoma) around the wound.
• Infection.
• The wound does not heal and cracks.
• Scarring.
• Persistent pain, pain during sex, or decreased sensitivity.

Healing time and answers to your questions

Is labiaplasty surgery very painful?

There is some swelling, discomfort and pain after the operation. However, this can usually be controlled with over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol. If necessary, the doctor will prescribe a stronger painkiller twice a day. Putting an ice pack on top of your underwear for 20 minutes, then removing it for 20 minutes and putting it back on again can greatly reduce the pain and swelling. Many people say that they only have a little pain for a few days.

How to wash and clean?

Do not use soap to wash the wound. Use only lukewarm water. After urinating, do not rub the area vigorously, but pat it dry with a clean cloth. To prevent infection, the doctor may prescribe an oral antibiotic or a cream to apply to the wound.

Wear loose clothing and underwear during the healing period. Wearing tight clothing can irritate the wound and delay healing.

When can I go back to work and exercise?

You can return to light work, such as office work, in a few days. However, if your job involves physical activity, such as lifting weights, you will need to rest for a week or two. The following activities should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks or until your doctor gives you permission.

• Intense exercise.
• Activities like cycling, running, and swimming.
• Having sex.

If these things start too soon, pressure can build up on the wound, causing the stitches to break, and delaying healing.

How long do the results of this surgery last?

A labiaplasty is usually a one-time procedure with lifelong results. Unless there are complications, you will not need to have the procedure again. However, if the labiaplasty is enlarged with fat or filler injections, you may need to have "touch-ups" over time.

Will sexual pleasure be affected after surgery?

While some people believe that this surgery will increase sexual satisfaction, there is not enough evidence to prove it. Research shows that there is no significant difference in sensitivity, vaginal lubrication, or orgasm. However, someone who previously experienced pain during sex may be able to enjoy sex more because the pain will go away. Also, increased self-confidence about one's appearance can have a positive effect on sexual experiences.

When should you talk to the doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your surgeon immediately.

• If the swelling or pain is getting worse.
• If bleeding increases or blood clots appear.
• If a discolored pus-like fluid is coming out of the wound.
• If you have severe pain when urinating or defecating.
• If you get a fever.
• If the sutures have opened.