Understanding the labiaplasty procedure

At Dr. Derek Steinbacher’s practice, Guilford, Connecticut, we focus on many procedures to restore youth balance, and shape.  This includes for women who have undergone changes to their genital / vaginal area related to pregnancy, hormonal fluctuations, weight loss, or other reasons.  In such situations a popular procedure called Labiaplasty may be considered. This surgical procedure is specifically designed to reduce both the size or shape of the labia minora, which are the inner lips of the vulva. Labiaplasty also addresses concerns such as asymmetry and elongation of the labia minora, providing women with physical and emotional relief. This includes both a potential aesthetic benefit and can improve comfort for very active women who experience exposure and irritation when bicycling or using the Peloton.  Let’s look at the labiaplasty procedure and all it entails!

What exactly is the labiaplasty procedure?

Dr. Derek Steinbacher describes Labiaplasty as a cosmetic surgery that involves the reshaping or reducing the size of a woman’s labia minora. The labia minora are the two thin folds of skin that are located on both sides of the vaginal opening. They vary in size, shape, and color from woman to woman. While larger or asymmetrical labia minora are common and not a medical issue, they can cause discomfort, irritation, and self-esteem issues. The labiaplasty procedure allows for modification or removing portions of the labia minora to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

How is the labiaplasty procedure performed?

Labiaplasty is typically an outpatient procedure that can be done under local anesthesia with either sedation or general anesthesia. The surgery involves removing excess tissue from the labia minora and reshaping it to create a more symmetrical appearance. Incisions are made along the natural folds of the skin to minimize scarring. At times this is coupled with other regenerative procedures, such as PRP injections or fat grafting to the sub-clitorial region or the vaginal canal. The procedure usually takes one or less, and women can return home the same day.

What is the recovery like after the labiaplasty procedure?

The recovery is generally quite easy. After the procedure, patients might notice swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the genital area. Our patients must follow all post-operative instructions given by Dr. Steinbacher and his Aesthetic SUrgery team, to ensure proper healing and reduce the risk of potential problems. Patients are advised to avoid any strenuous activity for at least a week and refrain from cycling and sexual intercourse for usually three to four weeks. Full recovery will usually take about six weeks, during which time women should keep the area clean and monitor the area for any potential signs of infection.

If you’re considering labiaplasty and seeking an experienced plastic surgeon, now is the time to take the next step toward enhancing your comfort and confidence. Call Dr. Derek Steinbacher and his team today at (203) 453-6635 to request an upcoming visit!

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What are the benefits of the labiaplasty procedure?

Labiaplasty offers both physical and emotional benefits for women who undergo the procedure. They include:

  • Improved self-esteem and confidence. Many local women who undergo Labiaplasty at our practice report feeling more confident and positive about their bodies after the procedure.
  • Reduced discomfort. Large or elongated labia minora can cause discomfort during everyday activities, such as exercise or wearing tight clothing. Labiaplasty can alleviate this discomfort and improve quality of life.
  • Enhanced sexual satisfaction. With reduced physical discomfort, women may experience improved sexual pleasure and satisfaction.
  • Balance and symmetry. Labiaplasty can address asymmetrical labia minora, providing a more balanced and symmetrical appearance.
Dr. Derek Steinbacher MD, DMD, FACS

Dr. Derek Steinbacher has devoted his life to aesthetic and life-changing surgery. He is an artistic and meticulous surgeon who draws patients from around the world due to his perspective, unmatched skill, and exceptional results. He is able to uniquely address the face (facelift + rejuvenation), jawline (orthognathic; chin; contouring; implants), nasal (rhinoplasty), eyelids, profile, neck, breast, and body with one-of-a-kind results.

He is a multiple Board-Certified, Fellowship-Trained Plastic, Cosmetic, and Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery. He is Fellow of the most prestigious surgical organizations, including the Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American College of Surgeons, the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, the Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery, Societies of Craniofacial and Maxillofacial Surgery, the Aesthetic Society, and the Rhinoplasty Society. He has served as Full-Professor of Plastic Surgery at Yale, including Director of the Cleft and Craniofacial Program, and Chief of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Dr. Steinbacher has unparalleled training at premier institutions, including Harvard and Johns Hopkins. His perspective brings together the best aspects of many distinct – but related fields – and it is this intersection of scope and expertise, in addition to an artistic eye, which enables excellent comprehensive results.

Dr. Steinbacher's approach: technical acumen, meticulousness, and penchant for combining art and science, together with his eye for balance, beauty, and harmony, helps achieve outcomes that greatly improve a person's confidence, health, and overall quality of life. Patients can trust that they are always in good hands!