Labiaplasty – For Comfort & Self-Esteem
Labiaplasty is a cosmetic genital surgical procedure that will reduce the size or change the shape of the small lips on the outside of the vagina (the labia minora).
Many women are born with large or irregular labia. Others develop this condition after childbirth or with aging. The appearance of the enlarged labia can cause embarrassment with a sexual partner or loss of self esteem. Some women just want to look “prettier” like the women they see in magazines or in films.
Chronic labial irritation can sometimes develop in women who wear tight clothing. Discomfort can occur with sex, sports or other physical activities.
Labiaplasty surgery can greatly enhance the cosmetic appearance of the outer vagina, giving many women greater confidence and self-esteem. Women whose labia become irritated and painful will often find relief after surgery.
To see actual results, please visit our Before & After Photo Gallery.
Dr. Ronald D. Blatt on Labiaplasty
Have a question about labiaplasty? • Want more information?
One of our staff members will contact you directly. If you have any concerns requiring immediate attention, please don't hesitate to call us at 212-308-4066.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would I want labiaplasty surgery?
The two main reasons are discomfort and esthetics. Many women feel uncomfortable or irritated when wearing tight clothing, having sexual relations, or exercising. Other women just want to look “prettier”. With the increased availability and acceptance of sexually explicit materials in our society, this is becoming more common. Often these women feel embarrassed or self-conscious in front of their partners.
Cosmetic Reasons: Women who are unhappy or embarrassed with the way their labia look. Often this affects sexual relationships and self-esteem. Some women just want to look as beautiful as they can for themselves and their partner. With the increasing openness of society to sexuality and greater exposure to sexually explicit materials, labiaplasty is becoming increasingly popular.
Medical Reasons: Women who have discomfort from enlarged labia. This can come from exercise, sexual activity or from wearing tight clothes.
I don’t have children. Can I still have a labiaplasty?
Yes. Whether you have had children or not is not the issue. The issue is whether the enlarged labia cause physical discomfort or unhappiness because of their appearance.
Where is the labiaplasty surgery performed?
The surgeries are performed in our outpatient surgical suite located in New York City’s famed East Side. We are proud that our office is an AAAASF surgical facility.
What is the average length of time of a labiaplasty procedure?
The average length of a labiaplasty procedure is between 1 and 2 hours. An additional hour is spent in our recovery room under the supervision of a Registered Nurse.
What type of anesthesia is used for labiaplasty surgery?
We perform this procedure under conscious sedation usually using a a very short acting medication named Diprovan (propophol). You will be asleep during the procedure and will awaken within minutes after the surgery is completed. You will not be paralyzed or intubated during the surgery. Please note that this is different at other facilities where the patient is often awake during the surgical procedure. We feel that our patients are more comfortable using this form of anesthesia. Anesthesia services are provided by board certified anesthesiologists and are included in the cost of the procedure.
What are the risks involved in labiaplasty surgery?
The most common risks of labiaplasty surgery may include bleeding, infection, and scarring, however these are very unusual.
What is the postoperative period like?
You will have discomfort at the surgical site for the first few days which will then decrease. All patients are sent home with prescriptions for pain medication and antibiotics. Full healing takes approximately six weeks. All sutures used are absorbable and therefore do not need to be removed.
How many post operative visits are required after labiaplasty surgery?
For our patients in the New York Metropolitan area we recommend post operative visits at two, four, six, and eight weeks to insure proper healing and excellent results. For our patients from out of town we recommend, if at all possible, a post operative visit at three to four weeks.
When can I return to work post labiaplasty surgery?
Most patients return to work in two to four days after surgery. General medical excuse letters for work that do not state the type of surgery are available upon request.
When can I resume exercise post labiaplasty surgery?
We recommend avoiding strenuous exercise for at least four weeks and possibly longer.
When can I resume sexual activity after the labiaplasty procedure?
Sexual activity usual can resume six to eight weeks after the labiaplasty surgical procedure.
Will labiaplasty surgery result in decrease in sensation?
For the vast majority of women the clitoris is the structure associated with sensory pleasure, not the labia. As such you should not notice any loss of pleasurable sensation after surgery. Many women find sexual activity more pleasurable because the Labia are no longer irritated during intercourse.
Will labiaplasty alter the skin surrounding my clitoris?
Usually this area is not altered during the surgery. Some women do have excessive skin in this area and it can be trimmed to give a more pleasing and natural appearance at the time of surgery. This can be discussed at the time of consultation.
Will my sexual partner notice a difference after my labiaplasty surgery?
If the labia were interfering with intercourse, both of you will notice an improvement. Visually, your partner should notice that your labia are now smaller and better proportioned.
Can labiaplasty and vaginoplasty procedures be done at the same time?
Yes. Both procedures can be done at the same time.
Does insurance cover the cost of labiaplasty surgery?
Insurance usually does not cover this surgery because it is considered elective.
Are financing plans available?
Yes. We have arrangements with two financial institutions for no interest and low interest financing of your surgery.
Are credit cards accepted for labiaplasty surgery?
Yes. We accept MasterCard, Visa, American Express and Discover.
What is my next step, if I’m interested in labiaplasty surgery?
Dr. Blatt and his staff will be happy to discuss this procedure with you. Please feel free to call to speak with Dr. Blatt directly if you have any further questions, or use our convenient contact form.
How far in advance should I schedule my labiaplasty surgery?
Consultations can be scheduled any time. We prefer a 48 hour notice to schedule surgery although at times we have been able to accommodate patients with as little as 24 hour notice. You may also elect to schedule your surgery weeks or even months in advance.
How much is an initial consultation?
The initial consultation is free. We believe once you meet our dedicated staff and see our state of the art facility you would become our patient.
Can I schedule my consultation the same day as surgery?
Yes. Many of our out of town patients have their consultations immediately prior to surgery. At this time we perform a physical exam and discuss the surgery that interest you in full detail.
Are there hotels near your office?
Yes. There are numerous hotels in the area including one right across the street. When you call to schedule your consultation we will be happy to provide you with information. Out staff can assist you with hotel reservations.
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With 35+ years experience
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