Labioplasty is a surgical procedure in which the shape deformities, sagging, and asymmetries of the labia minora (inner lips) and/or labia majora (outer lips) are corrected by cutting. It is the most requested genital cosmetic surgery in Turkey, Europe, and America, and the number of procedures performed each year is increasing.
Labioplasty takes its name from the “labium,” the term used to refer to the lip areas, where the aim is to improve their aesthetic appearance.
Labioplasty is often performed to create a more inwardly retracted appearance for the labia minora, which are the folds closest to the clitoris.
The thin lips located in the inner part of the external genital area are called labia minora (inner lips), while the bulging structure in the outer part is called labia majora (outer lips). The inner lips are hairless, while the outer area
Why is labiaplasty done?
The appearance of the genital area is important for many women. Some differences in the appearance of this area, such as large or sagging labia, can cause unhappiness for some women.
Asymmetry in the labia minora, or small lips, being larger than normal, irregularities, or widening of the vaginal entrance due to childbirth can all cause the genital area to look unsightly and cause discomfort, pain, sensitivity, and discomfort when wearing bikinis, swimsuits, and tight pants during sexual intercourse.
The procedure of reducing or making the labia symmetric is called labiaplasty. This surgery is a common procedure for genital aesthetic operations, and is performed worldwide, particularly in the US and Europe. As more women become aware of these surgeries, the number of people seeking treatment at surgical centers is increasing.
Labiaplasty is performed to correct any congenital or acquired deformities in the labia minora and/or labia majora. It is often performed to create a more inward appearance in the labia minora, which are the folds closest to the clitoris.
There is a normal appearance for labia in terms of length and appearance. Sometimes the inner labia are longer than the outer labia, and sometimes the outer labia are longer than the inner labia. They may be symmetric or asymmetric, and may be made to be visible or not visible, depending on whether the clitoris is visible. In some cases, the two labia may not be of the same size, shape, or thickness.
Labiaplasty is performed when the labia minora are too long, asymmetric, deformed, and causing discomfort.
Is Labiaplasty Medically Necessary?
This procedure is a cosmetic surgical procedure chosen by those who desire a smaller or shorter, more symmetrical appearance of the labia minora (inner labia).
It is generally performed for aesthetic purposes.
However, yes (!) it is sometimes medically necessary.
The most common reason for making it for aesthetic purposes is that the inner lips are large and drooping in a structure that protrudes from the outer lips (labia hypertrophy).
Labiaplasty is Medically Necessary in the Following Conditions
- If your labia are “sucked” or “stuck” into the vagina during sexual intercourse, causing painful tears in the skin of the vulva.
- If it causes recurrent vaginal infections
- If shame creates loss of self-confidence
- If the genital area is noticed when tight pants and tights are worn
- If there is a loss of sensation during sexual intercourse (if there is a fold of excess skin on the clitorius)
- If things like wearing underwear or swimwear, walking, running, cycling, or even sitting are painful with a frictional sensation, rubbing or rubbing or eroding the skin of the vulva
He says that in these cases, the procedure is considered medically necessary.
Some people are born with congenitally long, thick labia (inner lip), but it’s worth noting that giving birth and aging can also cause labia minora (inner lips) to lengthen, and the procedure may also become necessary later in life.
Does Labiaplasty Have Any Risks?
All operations have a risk.
It may involve rare risks such as decreased vulvar sensitivity, dryness, numbness, bleeding, hematoma, and infection.
However, most of these are conditions that are seen in the early period and pass in a short time. The patient’s compliance with the post-operative period recommendations will not only reduce the risks, but also shorten the healing process.
While some women choose to have a drastic reduction in labial length, if the labia is excessively resected or too much skin is removed, it can prevent it from doing its job. This resection should be done in the right amount and manner to preserve vaginal opening.
