Genital Rejuvenation (Labiaplasty) Procedures
What is Genital Rejuvenation?
Over the last 10 years, genital rejuvenation has become a popular plastic surgical procedure. We attribute this to grooming and shaving styles which now expose genitalia that were previously hidden. Newer plastic surgical procedures can rejuvenate both male and female genitalia. The desire to look “neat and youthful” down there has gone mainstream—from celebrities to professionals to the Mom and Dad next door.
What happens to the genitals over time?
During pregnancy, hormonal changes cause a hypertrophy or swelling of the labia majora (vulva) and labia minora. The repeated swelling and stretching of these structures with multiple pregnancies may cause a significant permanent enlargement of the labia minora. The large hanging labia may pose both a visual annoyance to a woman as well as a functional nuisance. Such symptoms might include a dislike of the size and appearance of one’s labia, asymmetry of the labia, awkwardness during sexual intercourse, trouble urinating (having to separate labia during urination), recurrent yeast infections in the skin folds from moisture retention, and pain during intercourse or exercise. The current popularity of the “Brazilian” shaving style has made this problem much more apparent.
Other changes following childbirth include a loosening of the vaginal canal caused by the stretching of the muscles and lining of the vagina and loosening of the muscles of the pelvis. These structures are most affected during the actual birth process, and never fully recover to their native state. This loosening may lead to a lesser degree of sexual pleasure or satisfaction for both the woman and her partner.
Weight gain and the redistribution of body fat over time can also cause a problem for both men and women in the form of enlargement of the mons pubis. The effect of this enlargement is a “hooding” of the genitals, especially in the standing position. For men, this can cause the penis to appear considerably shorter by 2 or more inches. For women, it can cause the appearance of a masculine budge when wearing tight fitting clothing such as swim suits or exercise pants.
Candidacy for Genital Rejuvenation
There are various reasons why a patient would want to consider Genital Rejuvenation. Most patients seek more youthful, attractive genitals, particularly after bearing children. Others desire heightened sexual pleasure. Some individuals request Genital Rejuvenation for functional or hygiene purposes. Regardless of the reason, most individuals experiencing any of the above symptoms are candidates for one or multiple genital rejuvenation procedures.
Procedure Description
During your consultation your plastic surgeon will advise you on which type of Genital Rejuvenation is most appropriate for you. The three most popular types of Genital Rejuvenation are Labiaplasty, Vaginoplasty and Mons Pubis reduction.
Before and After Photos
BEFORE
AFTER
Labiaplasty is a procedure which reduces or reshapes the labia minora (inner lips) and or labia majora (outer lips) to make them either smaller or symmetrical. This leaves the patient with an attractive youthful appearance. This is particularly popular now because modern shaving styles leave more of the labia exposed. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia in the office. Light sedating medications can be given to relax you and keep you comfortable and at ease. After the one hour procedure, you can go home and recuperate. The recovery is quick and usually associated with only mild discomfort. Antibiotics and medications are prescribed to keep you comfortable and problem free. Sexual relation may usually be resumed in 2 to 3 weeks.
Vaginoplasty is a surgical procedure which tightens the vagina. This procedure can be performed under a general or local anesthetic. Redundant vaginal tissue is removed, the muscles of the vaginal canal are tightened, and the vagina is made smaller (narrower). This procedure can greatly enhance sexual pleasure both for the woman and her partner. The procedure takes approximately one hour to perform. The recovery is quick and easy. Mild soreness is experienced. Antibiotics and medication to keep you comfortable are prescribed. Sexual relations may be resumed in about 4 weeks.
Mons Pubis Reduction is a surgical procedure which removes the redundant fatty and connective tissues from the mons pubis. This can be accomplished through liposuction, lipodissolve or direct excision. A simple liposculpturing can markedly reduce the mons pubis giving a much more youthful appearance to the region. The procedure may be done under local or general anesthesia depending on the patient’s personal preference and circumstances. The procedure lasts about an hour. Recovery is associated with some swelling of the genitals and some mild to moderate discomfort. Antibiotics and medications to keep you comfortable are prescribed. Sexual relations may be resumed in 1 to 2 weeks.
Other procedures:
Hymenoplasty is a surgical procedure that repairs the hymen by suturing the remains of the ruptured hymen from a previous sexual experience, or strenuous athletic activity. This procedure is popular among strict Islamic women and women of other religions that insist brides must be virgins before marriage. The procedure can also heighten sexual satisfaction because the vaginal walls are tightened.
Reducing the length and protrusion of the clitoral hood and clitoris is a surgical procedure that reduces the size of the clitoris. Some women are very self conscious about the projection of the clitoris because they feel like they have a small penis.
A fat injection to the genital area is a simple surgical procedure which increases the volume of the labia majora by taking fat from other parts of the body.
Facility & Anesthesia Options
Procedures which require general anesthesia are performed on an out patient basis in our Medicare Certified and State Licensed Surgical Center. However, most of the procedures described can be performed under local anesthesia and relaxing medications. The surgery itself usually takes one hour. The nursing and anesthesia staff are excellent and well trained in aesthetic and reconstructive procedures.
Potential Risks
Genital Rejuvenation is a safe procedure when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon. The surgeons at Changes Plastic Surgery are board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and are members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. These procedures are performed in a state licensed and Medicare certified surgical center, under the supervision of our skilled, board certified anesthesiologists. These credentials help ensure the highest standards of care and your utmost safety.
Nevertheless, as with any surgery, there are risks associated with the procedure or anesthesia. While uncommon, bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing and an unsatisfactory result may occur. Swelling, bruising and mild to moderate discomfort is commonly expected sequelae of any procdure. You can reduce your risks by closely following your physician's advice both before and after surgery.
Recovery
It is very important to follow up with your surgeon to make sure your recovery is going smoothly. Usually patients go back to daily routines in about one to two days. Soreness will be present for 2 to 4 weeks. Depending on the procedure and how well you recover, you may resume sexual intercourse, tampons and douching about 2 to 6 weeks after the procedure. Your surgeon will give you detailed instructions for resuming your normal activities.