Questions About Labiaplasty

What kind of results can I expect from labiaplasty?

If you have overly large labia minora (the inner lips of the vulva), and find this causing discomfort or pain, labiaplasty can reduce them. Reduction of the labia minora will give them more protection from the labia majora (the outer lips), reducing your discomfort. Labiaplasty can also make the size and shape of the labia more symmetrical. However, labiaplasty cannot change the color or texture of the labia.

During your initial consultation, Dr. Placik will ask what your goals are for your labiaplasty, and will discuss what can and can't be realistically accomplished.

What is the difference between the "wedge" and the "trim" methods for labiaplasty?

The wedge and trim methods for labiaplasty refer to how excess tissue is excised from the labia. In the wedge method, tissue is removed across the middle of the labia, with a wedge-shaped incision. This method generally removes excess tissue from the middle third of the labia. The trim method removes tissue from the edges of the labia, along their full length. Many women pursue labiaplasty because they're unhappy with the rough, dark edges of their labia, making the edge method more likely to give them the results they want.

Which method of labiaplasty is better?

The preferred method of labiaplasty depends on your desired results for the surgery, as well as your personal anatomy. Dr. Placik prefers the trim method when surgery is being performed in conjunction with a clitoral hood reduction, which is a common combination of procedures for his patients. Using the trim method in this case means there will be a single incision, whereas there will have to be multiple incisions if the wedge method is used. However, if the bulk of the tissue that needs to be removed is in the middle section of the labia, the wedge method might prove to be the better choice. Dr. Placik is experienced in both methods, and will use the method that will work best for you.

Is local or general anesthesia used during labiaplasty?

Generally, labiaplasty is performed under local anesthesia or local anesthesia and oral sedation. In some cases, a surgeon will make use of general anesthesia, but this usually is only the case when the labiaplasty is performed along with another procedure. For over 90% of patients, Dr. Placik performs labiaplasty as an outpatient procedure with local anesthesia. If you have any concerns about anesthesia with labiaplasty, be sure to discuss them with Dr. Placik.

For more information about labiaplasty, please contact Dr. Otto J. Placik at his Chicago, Illinois or Arlington Heights, Illinois plastic surgery offices. We'll be happy to answer any questions or discuss any concerns you might have.