Would I benefit from labiaplasty? (Photo)

Question

I've noticed changes in my labia and it's making me self conscious about my lady part. The skin seems to have stretched and is also a little darker. My clitoris hood also seems to have stretched and looks bigger. Would this procedure help me?

Gary J. Alter, MD · Answer

A labiaplasty must be performed by a surgeon with experience. One of the two most common techniques is the central wedge technique, which I invented in 1995 and published in the plastic surgery textbooks.  It is also known as the "V" or wedge technique. Gynecologists and most plastic surgeons perform a labioplasty very differently. They essentially trim the labia minora (inner vaginal lips) and leave a long suture line instead of the normal labial edge. Their technique is the same whether a scalpel or a laser is used. This can lead to scallops and irregularities.  In contrast, the central wedge removes triangles of tissue and bring the normal edges together. Thus, the normal labial edges, normal color, and normal anatomy are preserved, but the darkest labial tissue is usually removed. . No matter the technique, an inexperienced or unskilled surgeon can lead to a high rate of complications, chronic scar discomfort, labial deformities, and further surgery.  About 40% of the female genital cases I perform are revisions of labiaplasties and clitoral hoods botched by other doctors.

Additionally, you have clitoral hood enlargement and appear to have clitoris enlargement. Does your clitoris enlarge with arousal?  A clitoral hood reduction will not resolve your issue, but will make you worse if a clitoris reduction is not also done. A clitoropexy will not work, because your enlarged clitoris will pull out the sutures. Have you ever taken male hormones or had a hormone issue. You may want to see an endocrinologist to evaluate your hormone levels, but they are usually normal.

Very few surgeons perform a clitoris reduction, since it is technically challenging and is rarely taught. It is an intricate procedure, since the sensory nerves have to be carefully preserved.  I have done over 60 reductions without any loss of sensation or orgasmic ability. The clitoral reduction reduces the glans or head and also removes the erectile tissue in the shaft. After surgery, the clitoris will not stick out much or increase with arousal. The surgery is not very uncomfortable.  It takes up to 3 1/2 hours and includes clitoral hood reduction.  A labia minora reduction and/or labia majora reduction or enlargement can be done at the same time.

Gary J. Alter, M.D.
Beverly Hills, CA - Manhattan, NY- Dubai, UAE

Michael Litrel, MD, FACOG, FPMRS · Answer

A labiaplasty will help with your appearance. A bit more of the clitoris is showing. That happens sometimes from testosterone.  It would be easy to cover this a little at time of labiaplasty.  The ideal amount of clitoris showing is 3 mm. I am guessing from photo you have 5mm exposed.  Download my free ebook to read more

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry! We would love to meet with you in person for a consultation to make sure you're a great candidate for this procedure. I recommend scheduling with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon like myself to help you reach your goals and create a surgical plan for you!

Ellen A. Mahony, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question!
The success of every surgery, and the perceived "help," are linked to your underlying medical status, your specific goals and the surgeon's knowledge and experience with the procedure.
The primary reason women seek labiaplasty in my office is related to lengthening of the labia minora and the secondary issues associated with this, including:  discomfort related to excessive folding, bulging, moisture, hygiene, appearance.  All of these factors can be relieved to some extent by reducing the length/bulkiness of the labia minora.  
Darker pigmentation is part and parcel of the labia minora and some of that is usually reduced with the procedure but not necessarily all of it.
The clitoral hood is an integral part of a woman's femininity and sexual health.  Not only does the area house thousands of nerve endings but it also provides lubrication and protection of the clitoris which can become de-senstized without protection.  The details of what exactly you are hoping to achieve with a hood reduction should be reserved for your chosen provider.
Hope that all helps!
In good health, 
Ellen Mahony, MD

Caroline Min, MD · Answer

If you are self conscious about the appearance of your labia, labiaplasty surgery will help restore your confidence.  Have a consultation with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in your area to find out more information.   I really enjoy performing this surgery as the recovery is relatively quick and the results make a big difference in my patient's lives.

Irena Karanetz, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. 
Based on the photo that you provided, you appear to have enlarged and elongated inner lips (labia minora). I would recommend a Labiaplasty procedure in order to reduce the length and the width of your labia minora which will help achieve the look you desire. It will also make wearing tight clothes more comfortable.
I suggest that you seek an in person consultation with a Board-Certified plastic surgeon specializing in Labiaplasty to further discuss your options, specific techniques, concerns and expectations.
I hope this helps.Best regards, Dr. Karanetz
Dr. Irena KaranetzFellowship-TrainedBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Labiaplasty can reduce the prominence of your labia minora and clitoral hood. The procedure removes excess tissue. If you think you would benefit from this, you can speak with a board certified plastic surgeon experienced in labiaplasty for an assessment.

Mark N. Scheinberg, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question Labia come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. The benefit depends on your own preferences and concerns. if you feel you would feel better about yourself by changing the appearance of your labia then it can benefit you to do so. Your photo shows two areas that can be treated. The prepuce which is the upper section which forms the hood and the lower section which can be treated by natural edge technique using the upper edge to become a whole petite labia or trim technique. Be sure your surgeon knows how to reduce the prepuce leaving a smooth bridge of the nose appearance and offers choice of method for the lower labia. Read reviews and look at before and after pictures. Do your homework to get it right the first time. The video below should help get you started

Michelle Jones Singer, MD · Answer

Some of there reasons for a woman to request a labiaplasty include. Being unhappy with the appearance of the labia due to length, asymmetry and pigmentation. Sometimes it inhibits women from sexual activity from being self-conscious and embarrassed due to the extra tissue. Many women have pain/pulling/discomfort with exercises, walking, sitting and wearing certain clothing. There can also be pain and pulling with intercourse. You certainly have some on the symptoms. Be sure to consult an experienced cosmetic gynecologist or a urogynecologist.

Oscar A. Aguirre, MD, FPMRS · Answer

Hello pgatl,
You're an excellent candidate for a labiaplasty. Your labia are large, dark and uneven. Your hood, however, looks quite nice and thus I'd recommend leaving it alone. A properly performed labiaplasty would make you look more youthful and natural.
 Go to the link below to see hundreds of before and after photos where you will find many examples that are similar to you. From that link you can schedule a virtual consultation via phone or zoom, at which time we can discuss in depth your anatomy, expectations and concerns. Women from all over the world travel to my Center for their Intimate Makeover.
Best of luck,

Would I benefit from labiaplasty? (Photo)

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