Is my labia normal? Could it be more tucked in? (Photo)

Question

18, 5'7", 145 LB, fair skin. I would like it to look more tucked in, gyno says it's normal. Want a second opinion . Would he have to refer me?

Yasemin Aydinli, MD · Answer

Your gynecologist is right that a wide range of labial shapes is completely normal, and normal does not mean surgery is off the table. Labiaplasty is an aesthetic and comfort decision, not a medical one, so you do not need a referral, you can consult a plastic surgeon directly. If what you want is for the inner labia to sit inside the outer labia, the labia minora can be reduced. I usually prefer a modified wedge excision, which keeps the natural edge and color and leaves the scar hidden, unless the darker edge itself bothers the patient. At 18 I would suggest waiting a little and making sure this is a lasting wish rather than a passing insecurity, since the tissue is healthy and the surgery is not reversible.

Gary J. Alter, MD · Answer

If you have discomfort or are self-conscious with the appearance of your labia, it is reasonable to have a labia minora reduction. Your labia and clitoral hood are larger than many women.  I am the inventor of the central wedge technique, in which I remove triangles of tissue and bring the normal edges together.  It is also known as the "V" or wedge technique. Thus, the normal labial edges, normal color, and normal anatomy are preserved, but the darkest labial tissue is usually removed.  You have extra tissue on your clitoral hood, which I can reduce it at the same time using various techniques.  I have been featured performing this operation on Dr. 90210 on the E! Channel as well as on multiple other television shows.   I travel and lecture all over the world on my techniques and am published in most plastic surgical textbooks.  I invented the surgery in 1995 and reported the seminal article in the plastic surgery literature.

FYI:  Gynecologists and most plastic surgeons perform a labiaplasty very differently. They essentially amputate 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 technique often results in scallops, asymmetry, an unnatural edge, hanging frenula, and over-resection. In contrast, I remove 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.   My technique is performed with magnification to ensure an accurate approximation of the normal labial edges, whereas the other technique takes 15-30 minutes and results in a linear scar as the labial edge.  That scar can cause chronic discomfort and aesthetic disfigurement.
 
About 40% of the labia surgeries I perform are reconstructions of botched labiaplasties done by other surgeons. Do your research and make sure you choose an experienced surgery.  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.

Sincerely,

Gary J. Alter, M.D.

Beverly Hills, CA  -  Manhattan, New York City

Helen Otteno, MD, FACOG · Answer

Your labia are within the normal range of anatomy. Labia naturally vary considerably in size, shape, and symmetry. However, if you prefer a smaller, more tucked-in appearance, labiaplasty can be performed to remove excess tissue and create that cosmetic result. Please consult a board certified gynecologist with additional training in cosmetic gynecology. Best,

George Marosan, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photo. First, please be reassured that your genital anatomy falls completely within a wide, normal anatomical range. Based purely on this photo and without the benefit of a physical exam, you appear to be a reasonable candidate for a labiaplasty and clitoral hood reduction. This combined procedure is typically performed safely in an outpatient setting under local anesthesia with mild oral sedation. I highly recommend scheduling a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon or a gynecologist who possesses specific sub-specialty training and high-volume experience in female genital cosmetic surgery, as not all general practices offer these procedures. You generally do not require a referral for this type of consultation, but please keep in mind that because it is an elective cosmetic procedure, insurance will not cover the cost. Good luck to you as you explore your options!

Berra Onsoy, MD · Answer

If by “more tucked in” you mean that you would prefer the inner labia to be less visible, yes this may be achievable with labiaplasty.

Is my labia normal? Could it be more tucked in? (Photo)

Answers (5)

More Labiaplasty Questions

Considering Labiaplasty: Recovery Timeline & Surgical Techniques?

Why do I still have discomfort horseback riding three years after labiaplasty? (Photo)

How is the numbing done for a labiaplasty?

Is it possible to reduce the labia and hood without affecting sensation? (Photo)

Labiaplasty and clitoral hood reduction - plastic surgeon or OB/GYN for the most aesthetic results? (Photos)

What are realistic labiaplasty and CHR expectations? (Photos)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS