What are the costs, pros/cons, etc for CO2 laser labiaplasty?

Question

I haven't heard a lot about the Co2 laser for labiaplasty. A place in my area offers Co2 laser labiaplasty (reduction of the labia minora, which is what i want). From what I read it uses a laser to cut vs a surgical instrument? I'd like to know more about how the cost compares to the typical labiaplasty and results between them, recovery time etc.

Svetlana M. Danovich, MD, PhD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. I suggest to see the specialist who can guide you in right direction ( surgical vs none surgical treatment) based on your exam.  Best regards, Dr. Danovich.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I suggest consulting with a board certified plastic surgeon who can review your surgical options with you in detail in regards to your specific case. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer.

Oscar A. Aguirre, MD, FPMRS · Answer

Hello Lauram71,Laser Reduction Labiaplasty is a technique invented by Dr. David Matlock. It represents a very reproducible way of performing labia reductions for most women. The laser is used to cut the labia tissue in a precise manner, however it may create a thermal injury (burn) and cause sloughing of the skin, deformities, and postop pain. The "CO2 Labiaplasty" is industry's way of capturing some of the cosmetic vaginal surgery market where they sell an expensive laser and tell their inexperienced "surgeons" that they too can get the results that specialized cosmetic vaginal surgeons have for many years. It's a gimmick.What is most important is the skill and experience of your surgeon, not so much the actual "tool". Having trained under Dr. Matlock I first used a laser to perform Labiaplasty procedures. It only took a few patients to realize that the laser was too hot and was causing healing difficulties and moderate postop pain. I have since changed to a different "tool" to make my incisions, but still use the same specific technique that enables an aesthetically pleasing and youthful result. By making this switch I am able to perform these surgeries with the patients awake in my surgical center, under local anesthesia and no sedation. Patients recover pain free, except for the discomfort that comes from the swelling surrounding the sutures which are removed between postop day 4-7, depending on their progress. This enables them to travel back home with minimal discomfort and excellent aesthetic results. Be sure to look for an experienced surgeon and look through their photo gallery to assess their expertise. What is key is the surgeon you choose, not the tool.Best of luck,Oscar A. Aguirre, MDUrogynecologist & Cosmetic Vaginal Surgeon

Misbah Khan MD, FAAD, FACMS · Answer

Laser is just another way to cut the pink labia minora. it might help a bit with bleeding but it sure is not superior than a traditional scalpel. I have the laser for skin and mucosal cutting but I hardly ever use it unless its the only option for the patient. cost wise, its a personal choice for the patient. personally I wouldn't recommend choosing based on cost but that's just me.

Donovan Rosas, MD · Answer

While lasers do have their own unique applications and consequent benefits, in this case the laser is just a fancy (and expensive) scalpel. For lack of a better term, it is a "lightsaber." Cutting and cauterizing as it goes. If movies have taught us anything it is not the blade but the Jedi wielding it that makes all the difference. Careful planning and skill with his/her chosen tool is of paramount importance.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS).Donovan Rosas MD
Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member: American Society for Aesthetic Plastic
Surgery, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
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Naveen Setty, MD · Answer

The use of a laser in this type of surgery is likely just a marketing ploy.  There is no added benefit to using a laser over a scalpel as far as healing time and pain after surgery.  Find a surgeon who can show you their before and after photos that match what you are looking for.

Daniel Butz, MD · Answer

Using a laser has few benefits from traditional labiaplasty techniques. It's just another way to cut the skin. It's used as a marketing technique. Ask to see before and afters and discuss your specific concerns. Many different fields offer labiaplasty - Ob/Gyn, Urology, Plastic Surgeons. The key is to find someone that has the proper training and experience. Cost of traditional labiaplasty will vary by location and experience. Average in the midwest is likely around 3500-5000.

Robert Frank, MD · Answer

Lasers are just another way to cut tissue. In the case of a labiaplasty, it's unlikely that using a laser rather than a scalpel will result in less pain, swelling, bleeding or a better cosmetic result. Rather than choosing a surgeon based on the use of the laser, I'd pick someone who does a lot of this type of surgery and is board certified by either the American Board of Plastic Surgery or The American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. These days, many docs (especially in Florida) will advertise themselves as "Board Certified". It's incumbent on you to ask "What are you board certified IN??"

Gregory Roche, DO · Answer

Thank you for this question.
Laser can me a remarkable tool in practiced hands. In my practice I have been using CO2 laser for over 20 years.
However, I do not use it when performing a reduction labiaplasty, I use steel. I believe in this case I can be more precise. The patient also does not have to slough from the vaporization, so less downtime in the end.
I hope this helps.

Robin A. Sykes, MD · Answer

It does not really matter what the surgeon uses to make cuts in the tissue. 
 I actually prefer to use a knife than a laser, and think it may heal better without the burn artifact that a laser can create.  In fact, a laser adds a layer of cost and safety concerns to the procedure, which is then passed along to the patient. 
It is the doctor and the plan which are important, not necessarily the instrument which is used to make the cuts!

What are the costs, pros/cons, etc for CO2 laser labiaplasty?

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