Labiaplasty: Rejuvenate your most intimate part

Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure for women unhappy with some of their vaginal skin folds. It involves altering the size or shape of the labia minora (the inner lips of the vulva) or the labia majora (the outer lips of the vulva). The procedure is typically done to reduce a woman’s discomfort or pain during physical activity or sexual intercourse, to correct asymmetry or damage caused by childbirth or injury, or for cosmetic reasons.

The surgical procedure

The process involves Dr. Iteld making incisions in the labia and removing excess tissue, reshaping the labia, or reducing the size of the labia. He closes the incisions with dissolvable sutures or surgical glue.

• The trim procedure is most often performed. This is where the extra tissue is removed and sewn up directly. The wedge procedure is also popular. Here, Dr. Iteld removes a pie-shaped piece of tissue and maintains a natural border. He can also reduce extra folds of the clitoral hood at the same time.
• This can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.
• The entire procedure usually takes about one to two hours.

The specific technique Dr. Iteld uses depends on each woman’s individual needs and goals.

After surgery

We will give you detailed after-care instructions including ways to manage any discomfort during the recovery period. It is important to follow our post-operative instructions and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and to address any concerns.

• Swelling and Bruising: On the first day after your surgery, the labia minora, labia majora, and even the clitoris (which was not cut during the procedure) will become swollen. The swelling should subside over the next few days.
• Itchiness: It’s also very normal for the area around your incision to become itchy; this is your body’s natural reaction to the healing process. It will take a lot of willpower not to irritate and scratch, but you don’t want to risk the potential of tearing open your stitches or infecting the area. Avoid touching the skin directly unless it is to apply a prescribed ointment to the surgical site. Call us for a follow-up appointment if your itching persists beyond the first couple days so we can check for a yeast or bacterial infection.
• Bleeding and Drainage: You may experience some light bleeding or drainage from the incision area. Don’t worry; this is normal.

These discomforts will subside by the end of your first week post-surgery, and you’ll feel much more comfortable.

“With rest and following the after-care instructions we provide, you’ll be back on your feet within a few days and return to physical activities in a just few weeks.” Dr. Iteld

Pain? No, thank you

Managing pain during your recovery period should be the last thing on your mind. That’s why Dr. Iteld’s non-opioid approach to surgery takes the entire process —including healing and downtime — into account. This means he aims to minimize any pain and to keep you off opioids.

Returning to your normal life

Recovery varies from person to person, but most women can return to work and light activities about a week or two after surgery. We recommend you avoid sexual activity, tampons, and strenuous exercise for at least 4-6 weeks to allow for proper healing. Please keep in mind that you may still experience some residual swelling up to six months after your procedure.

Discover if Labiaplasty is right for you

Labiaplasty is a personal decision and should be carefully considered. It’s important to have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure. If this is something you’re considering, please discuss your goals and concerns with our experienced patient coordinators during your confidential consultation. Contact us or send us an email at [email protected]. ________ Lawrence Iteld, MD, is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and the Illinois Society of Plastic Surgery. A highly regarded Chicago based plastic surgeon, Dr. Iteld has received awards from Chicago Magazine’s Top Docs, and Castle Connolly Top Doctors®, and is a Key Opinion Leader with Allergan Aesthetics.