Is a change in appearance of vulva after tummy tuck normal?

Question

Should I expect there to be a change in the appearance of my vulva after a mini-abdominoplasty? How common is this? Is it something I should expect to occur? I have heard post-operative stories of the labia becoming skinnier and/or "pulled up" after a TT and am wondering if this is typical or not.

Brent Moelleken, MD · Answer

The pubic area can be affected during tummy tucks... or not... depending on what exactly is done, the degree of tightness, and whether or not a pubic lift is done at the same time.  Often women who have had children request a little assistance in the vulvar area!  But nobody wants an excessively tight vulvar region and alteration of the urethra!  A board certified plastic surgeon with interest in mini type tummy tucks can assist you in what to expect.

Austin Hayes, MD · Answer

Depends on the technique that is used by your surgeon. It is possible to give a subtle lift to the mons (area above the vulva) if desired. It's also possible to leave the mons unchanged. I would speak with your surgeon about your goals, so that they can advise you.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question!  Oftentimes a tummy tuck will result in a subtle lift to the lower pelvis, or mons, region.  There are ancillary procedures that can be done based on your desires so definitely discuss this with your surgeon.  Hope this helps.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  The
best advice you can receive is from an in-person consultation.  If good technique is employed, then the vulva should not have a "pulled" appearance after a tummy tuck.   Make sure you specifically look
at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery
performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.   The most
important aspect is to find a surgeon you are comfortable with. I recommend
that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who
can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

Generally, an abdominoplasty incision is planned low enough so as to be concealed by most undergarments/swimsuits and high enough so as not to distort the vulva. The labia can be drawn upwards by the tension on the lower flap. This can be avoided by placement at least 5 cm above the fornix (labial commissure). The lower flap can also be anchored on closure to counter the traction effect.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear srlg,tummy tuck should have no effect on your labia. It can cause swelling of pubic area and in some cases swelling of labia but it resolves with time. I would suggest you to discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon.Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

In a tummy tuck the excess abdominal skin is pulled down.  Swelling can sometimes make the appearance of the mons change temporarily. If requested the surgeon can address the mons area during a tummy tuck. I encourage to discuss your concerns with your surgeon.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Usually there is no change to the vulva. Should the surgeon pull the lower skin too much to try to get a super tight abdomen, then the vulva may be pulled upward. Perhaps discuss this with your surgeon during the consult or preop visit.

Derby Sang Caputo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The procedure might create a bit  lifted vulva for the first months after , especially because the tightness and the swelling. Most of the time this will be temporarily. Best of luck

Gary L. Ross, MBChB, FRCS · Answer

Depends a little on his tight the skin closure is and the anatomy of your mons area. It is common for the genital region to swell potop but rare for patients to complain of alteration in the vulval anatomy.

Is a change in appearance of vulva after tummy tuck normal?

Answers (10)

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