The risks of labiaplasty surgery can frighten some patients into avoiding care by a surgical reduction of an enlarged inner labia (also called the labia minora or inner vaginal lips). Fortunately, the risks of labiaplasty are few, and actual complications occurring during or after this surgery are also infrequent.
Still, we want you to feel comfortable about approaching labiaplasty. In the following article, we’ll go over the rare but potential risks of labiaplasty surgery, as well as provide a brief overview of the outpatient procedure itself.
What Are the Risks of Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty complications are rare, but there could be some temporary labiaplasty surgery side effects. Therefore, most of the risks are simply those that are associated with all types of surgery: infection, blood clots, excessive swelling or bleeding, poor scarring, physical discomfort, or unsatisfactory results from the labiaplasty.
Again, these rarely ever occur, but let’s go over each one just so that you have a better idea of the potential complications that could occur with this surgery.
Infection
Despite sterile conditions at the hospital or surgical facility and details given to patient safety, bacterial infection remains a potential risk after labiaplasty or any type of surgery in the surgical area.
Careful postoperative care and adherence to prescribed antibiotics can mitigate this risk, but if you do notice signs of infection (high persistent fever, intense redness and heat, uneven swelling, etc.), contact your qualified surgeon immediately.
Blood Clots
Prolonged immobility after surgery can lead to blood clot formation. This is why movement after surgery is so helpful. Of course, too much movement may cause a rise in blood pressure, which can cause issues as well.
This can be difficult with labiaplasty. Fortunately, soreness and severe swelling should be short-lived, which will allow for easier movement right after surgery. Also, the risk is low.
Excessive Swelling
Swelling following labiaplasty is a common postoperative symptom, but excessive swelling can also occur, and this can cause further complications. Your qualified and experienced surgeon will tell you what to watch for and how to reduce swelling. Persistent, uneven, or worsening swelling should be addressed in most cases.
Excessive Bleeding
While some bleeding is expected after labiaplasty, excessive bleeding requires immediate attention. Patients will be educated on signs of excessive bleeding and advised to contact their plastic surgeons if bleeding persists beyond the expected timeframe.
Poor Scarring
Scarring can vary depending on individual healing responses. Some people are simply more prone to noticeable scars after they get an incision. This often depends on skin pigment and type.
Of course, labiaplasty scarring will also depend on how your incisions were closed, which is why choosing an excellent surgeon is of the utmost importance.
And finally, make sure to care for your incisions as directed. Fortunately, labiaplasty incisions require little direct care when compared with incisions on other parts of the body.
Unsatisfactory Results
Despite your surgeon’s best efforts, outcomes may not always align your expectations. Thorough preoperative discussions and realistic goal setting can help manage expectations and reduce dissatisfaction post-surgery.
Anesthesia Reactions
Some people have negative reactions to local anesthesia or general anesthesia. Basically every plastic surgery procedure will require anesthesia, so if you know you react poorly, be sure to share this with your surgeon.
Labiaplasty: The Surgical Procedure
Labiaplasty addresses excessively large inner vaginal lips. This is an issue that many women face due to genetics. But it can also be caused or exacerbated by pregnancy, childbirth, and aging.
Many women who have enlarged inner labia at the vaginal opening will struggle with mild to severe pain on a daily basis. Often, the discomfort is associated with sexual intercourse, exercise, or wearing tight clothing. Pain medication is usually prescribed for that.
Patients may also feel self-conscious about having excess tissue and excess skin around their inner labia and labia majora. This is a common reason for desiring cosmetic surgery on this area.
How Labiaplasty Surgical Procedures Are Performed
Labiaplasty as a cosmetic procedure begins with the administration of anesthesia. Often, anesthesia can be used with IV sedation, but general anesthesia may be used as well. Your best labiaplasty surgeons will then make the necessary incisions at the surgical site.
There are two main types of labiaplasty surgery: the trim procedure and the wedge procedure. The trim procedure is a surgical technique that simply involves cutting off the upper most section of each vaginal lip. The edges are sewn together carefully.
The wedge labiaplasty procedure involves making an incision that goes perpendicular to the length of the labia. The tissue is then trimmed off, and the edges of the incisions are sewn together.
In most cases, surgeons and patients prefer the wedge method because it hides the scar far better. In fact, the scar can often be hidden inside the body. Furthermore, most patients feel that they lose less sensitivity with the wedge procedure.
Labiaplasty Risks FAQ
Does insurance cover labiaplasty surgery?
Most insurance companies do not cover labiaplasty since it’s typically classified as cosmetic rather than medically necessary. However, coverage varies by provider and individual plan, so contact your insurer directly to inquire about your specific situation.
To qualify for potential coverage, you’ll need extensive medical documentation proving the procedure addresses functional problems, chronic pain, or recurrent infections rather than aesthetic concerns. If insurance doesn’t cover the procedure, financing options include medical financing plans.
Is labiaplasty a high risk surgery?
In general, labiaplasty is not a high-risk surgery. It is commonly performed and usually considered safe.
As with all surgeries, there are risks such as bleeding, infection, and poor scarring with labiaplasty. But these are very rare.
What are the disadvantages of labiaplasty?
There are no serious disadvantages of labiaplasty if your enlarged inner labia are really giving you problems. The biggest disadvantage for most patients is the short amount of downtime required in order to fully recover.
How long do labiaplasty side effects last?
Most labiaplasty side effects resolve within a week to several weeks. Initial swelling and discomfort typically decrease significantly after the first few days. Painkillers may be prescribed for comfort, and taking a warm bath can help reduce soreness. Complete healing usually occurs within 6-8 weeks, though minor swelling may persist slightly longer.
What is the best age for labiaplasty?
The ideal age for labiaplasty is after full physical development, typically 18 years or older. While some young girls may experience discomfort earlier, most healthcare provider recommendations suggest waiting until adulthood. Patients should be emotionally mature and sexually active or planning to be, ensuring they can make informed decisions about the procedure.
Is labiaplasty life changing?
Labiaplasty can significantly improve the quality of life for many patients experiencing physical discomfort or self-consciousness. The procedure often provides substantial health benefits including relief from pain during physical activity and improved confidence. Many patients report positive impacts on their mental health and overall comfort in intimate situations and daily activities.
Does labiaplasty make you lose feeling?
Temporary numbness is possible, but permanent sensation loss is rare when performed by a qualified medical professional. The procedure typically preserves sexual function and sensitivity, especially with the wedge technique. The clitoral hood area is usually unaffected. Most patients maintain normal sensation, though minor changes in sensitivity may occur during the healing process.
What are the disadvantages of labiaplasty?
Potential disadvantages include temporary discomfort, possible scar tissue formation, and the standard surgical risks with an increased risk of infection or bleeding. Some patients may experience asymmetry or need revision surgery, potentially leading to additional costs and recovery time. Even when performed by other surgeons using meticulous technique, the final outcome can occasionally fall short of a patient’s expectations.
Do labias grow back after labiaplasty?
No, removed tissue from female genitals does not regenerate after labiaplasty. The results are permanent, lasting the whole time after healing is complete. However, natural aging, hormones, and childbirth can cause changes over time. There are various types of factors that may affect the long-term appearance, but actual regrowth of removed tissue does not occur.
Is a labiaplasty worth it?
Many patients find labiaplasty worthwhile when chronic discomfort affects daily life, causing sexual problems or pain during exercise. Effective pain management post-surgery and following recovery guidelines including adequate drinking water intake contribute to successful outcomes. The decision should be made carefully, considering personal goals and discussing expectations with your surgeon for optimal satisfaction.
Can you have kids after labiaplasty?
Yes, pregnancy and childbirth are possible after labiaplasty. The procedure doesn’t affect reproductive organs or menstrual flow. Some patients may experience minor abdominal pain during recovery, but this doesn’t impact fertility. It’s important to note that labiaplasty differs completely from harmful procedures like female genital mutilation or female circumcision, which are life threatening practices requiring medical training to address.
How does a patient’s blood pressure affect the safety of a labiaplasty surgical procedure?
During any plastic surgery, the anaesthetist monitors the patient’s blood pressure continuously. Elevated readings can heighten bleeding risk, while low pressure slows circulation, both increasing the risks associated with labiaplasty. Stable vitals help the surgeon achieve a safe and successful procedure, limit complications, and promote proper healing of the delicate tissue.
Could removing too much tissue from the labia minora lead to revision surgery and higher costs?
Excessive surgical removal or overly aggressive surgical reduction of the labia minora can cause asymmetry, tightness, or discomfort that sometimes requires revision surgery. Corrective work adds to the overall labiaplasty cost, which may include new facility and anaesthesia fees. Selecting an experienced surgeon and following after-care instructions minimises the chance of trimming too much tissue and avoids extra expense.
Contact Us Today to Schedule a Labiaplasty Consultation
You deserve to feel confident about your labiaplasty surgery.
If you have any worries or concerns at all about approaching this procedure or if you would simply like to learn more about how the surgery is performed, whether you are a good candidate, or learn about post operative care instructions, we invite you to book a consultation with board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Rachel Mason at her Las Vegas practice.
References
https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/aesthetic-genital-plastic-surgery/labiaplasty