If I have labiaplasty then lose weight (100+ pounds) will this affect the labia?

Weight loss will not affect the labiaplasty result. 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. If you have extra tissue on your clitoral hood, it can be reduced it at the same time. 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.

Weight loss will affect the labia majora.

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

Congrats on your weight loss journey! A labiaplasty with labia minora reduction is a long-lasting procedure. The size of the labia minora remains unchanged regardless of weight fluctuations, as there is no subcutaneous fat in this area. Conversely, the labia majora may alter in size due to weight loss or gain, as it contains fat tissue. To ensure a successful outcome and safe recovery, it is usually recommended to reach your desired weight prior to the procedure. Wishing you the very best on your journey!

Hello, losing weight does not cause sagging of the labia minora; rather, sagging of the labia minora occurs due to age and pregnancy. However, it may cause sagging of the labia majora after losing too much weight.

It’s generally the outer labia that changes the most with weight gain and weight loss. However, with the outer labia getting smaller, it may actually make the inner labia look bigger relative to that. The outer labia and mons pubis stores fat, and as one loses weight, the outer labia and mons may shrink. The pubic area may also sag, and some women may actually experience elongation of the outer labia as well with weight changes. Usually plastic surgery is best performed at your goal weight, but if your inner labia is bothersome and causing chafing and symptoms, Labiaplasty can be performed really had any time to alleviate those symptoms.

Thank you for your question about how weight loss might impact your labiaplasty results. Generally, losing a significant amount of weight after a labiaplasty shouldn't affect your results. However, losing weight before surgery can make the procedure and anesthesia safer. I hope this information is helpful, and I wish you the best of luck in your journey.

Sincerely, Dr. Katzen

Different patient's bodies will respond differently to weight loss.
In general, the labia minora shouldn't change significantly. If that is what is bothering you, it may be reasonable to do surgery now if it is bothersome enough.
The labia majora is a different story. it is much more likely to change with fluctuations in weight. With weight loss, this area often becomes more deflated and allows more of the labia minora to be visible. Some patients following weight loss will actually require fat grafting to the labia majora for this reason.

Hi,
Thank you for the question.
If you are planning to lose significant amount of weight, I would recommend to do it prior to undergoing labiaplasty surgery for the best cosmetic results, since inner labia shape may change after 100lb weight loss.
I would also encourage you to seek an in person evaluation by the Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon specializing in Labiaplasty procedure to further discuss your questions and concerns.
I hope this helps.Best regards, Dr. Karanetz
Dr. Irena KaranetzFellowship-TrainedBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

There is no guarantee that the genital area will be affected by massive weight loss, however it is possible. Therefore, you may want to wait until after you’ve reached your stable and ideal weight before undergoing labiaplasty.

With your description of pain and discomfort I am assuming that you are describing the labia minora. In general, weight loss will not affect the labia minora and any reduction in the minora can be undergone without fear of future loss of results. Excessive weight loss can cause the labia majora to become more ptotic (saggy) requiring either removal of skin or placement of fat grafting for the optimal aesthetic result. Because of this, it is always more optimal to wait until after weight loss is completed prior to pursuing surgery.

I would expect that weight loss of 100+ pounds will result in significant amounts of loose skin. Ideally you should wait. Otherwise you could have a two stage approach to help with pain and increase your mobility