Labiaplasty in Houston

Labiaplasty is one of the fastest-growing types of cosmetic surgeries, resulting in an enhanced vaginal appearance. This surgery alters the labia — most often, the labia minora. Enlarged labia minora have many causes. It can be congenital, where some women are born with enlarged or elongated labia; or it can be due to stretching caused by childbirth, significant weight changes, and, sometimes, physical trauma. Women who have this condition find discomfort in wearing tight-fitting clothes, as well as when exercising and having sex.

While the majority of labiaplasty surgery focuses on the labia minora, some women have additional areas they request be adjusted. Vaginal rejuvenation surgery can include:

• Correcting the size of the clitoral hood
• Adjusting the size of the labia majora
• Adding to the fullness of the mons pubis (the front facing area of the vulva where most pubic hair is visualized)
• “G” spot augmentation
• Vaginoplasty. 

During a vaginal rejuvenation consultation, Dr. Lapuerta will identify the patient’s goals going into this surgery so that the desired surgical outcome can be achieved. Both a physical exam and understanding of the patient’s main functional and aesthetic concerns will allow Dr. Lapuerta to offer options that specifically address each individual’s unique needs.

There is no defined size range for what is considered an enlarged or elongated labia. Rather, normal size and shape is dictated by relative proportion to the labia majora. Normally, the labia minora will be smaller and shorter in length than the outer labia majora — these are the outer, fuller folds which have hair growth. In these cases, the labia minora are not visible outside of the labia majora when standing. However, not everybody is built that way. 

The ideal labiaplasty surgery candidate is anyone unhappy with the length, size, or appearance of their labia minora. Patients who experience functional problems due to their labia minora are also prime candidates for a labiaplasty surgery. Patients should be in good overall health and, as with any form of plastic surgery, have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure. 

If you are unsure whether a labiaplasty is right for you, it’s best to speak with Dr. Lapuerta directly. He can help determine if a patient is a good candidate for labiaplasty surgery, as well as inform them of what to expect before, during, and after the procedure.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons began collecting data on the number of Labiaplasty surgery procedures in 2015. Since then, the number of these procedures has risen each year and overall has shown a 40 percent increase.

This increase is attributed to more information being made available to women regarding this issue. This once unfortunately taboo topic has seen a surge of accessible information and conversation, which has allowed women to recognize that they are not alone. Labiaplasty surgery has made great strides in recent years, with surgeons finding the best possible techniques to achieve impressive results. Regardless of the technique, the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic surgeons consistently found that patients reported a satisfaction rate greater than 90%.

Labiaplasty Techniques

Labiaplasty can be performed in a few different ways. Depending on your anatomy and goals, Dr. Lapuerta will decide which technique will best serve your unique needs.

The majority of patients will benefit most from a Wedge Resection Labiaplasty. Some patients are better candidates for Composite Reduction Labiaplasty, which addresses the labia minora in conjunction with the clitoral hood. For patients in need of smaller increases in length, size, or volume of the labia minora, the Edge Resection Labiaplasty is likely the preferable surgery. 

• Wedge Labiaplasty

Dr. Lapuerta uses this technique for the vast majority of his patients seeking a labia reduction. During this procedure, a “V” shaped wedge is removed from the central or predominant area of the labia minora in order to reduce the size and volume. The remaining edges are sewn with absorbable sutures for a natural appearance. The cosmetic benefits of this technique are the preservation of the natural contour, color and texture of the labia minora and the scar is minimal and well hidden. Functionally, it preserves the neurovascular supply while resulting in fewer complications and the need for re-operation while reporting one of the highest satisfaction rates of any of the techniques.

• Composite Labiaplasty

For patients whose concerns include a large clitoral hood in addition to long or enlarged labia minora, a Composite Labiaplasty can resolve both of these issues in one procedure. A Composite Labiaplasty will include the “V” shaped wedge resection of the wedge technique but will progress toward the front aspect of the labia minora where it joins or meets the clitoral hood allowing reduction of the hood and a smooth, natural appearance. This technique is associated with one of the highest satisfaction rates by patients, with 35% of patients reporting increased sensation following the reduction of the clitoral hood.

• Edge Resection Labiaplasty

In patients with minimal labia minora hypertrophy or “hanging,” an edge resection can be performed. This technique removes excess skin and tissue along the “hanging” edges of the labia minora. This technique does not provide for hiding the scar as well as the wedge technique does and may not result in an appearance that is as natural in contour, color and texture. For these reasons, Dr. Lapuerta prefers the wedge resection technique even for patients with minimal labia minora complaints.

Anesthesia Options

Labiaplasty can be performed under local anesthesia, local with sedation, or general anesthesia. Given the sensitive nature of the procedure and the anxiety many women feel about this issue, Dr. Lapuerta has found that the majority of his patients prefer to be asleep and unaware during the procedure.

Labiaplasty Recovery

This procedure is considered an outpatient procedure, with the entire surgery typically taking about an hour to complete. Dr. Lapuerta always begins with injecting local anesthesia which significantly reduces any pain associated with the procedure. The incisions made during surgery are minimal, with Dr. Lapuerta strategically choosing incision points to make the scarring as undetectable as possible. Any scarring from the surgery will be well concealed and will fade with time. The sutures used during the surgery will not need to be removed and will not be felt after healing is complete, six weeks after surgery.

Following this surgery, patients should expect some mild bruising and swelling, which will go down fairly quickly during labiaplasty recovery. There can be some mild discomfort as well — and in the unlikely event the patient experiences considerable discomfort, the pain can be managed with medication. Patients can use cold packs intermittently to the area as well as a local anesthetic spray, like Dermaplast. The sutures placed during the procedure will dissolve over time, so there is no need for a follow-up visit to remove the sutures. 

Women should rest and avoid any activities that will result in additional swelling and discomfort. Patients are encouraged to stay off of their feet and keep their legs elevated for the first 24-48 hours, and can expect to return to their everyday life within days. However, vigorous exercise, vaginal intercourse, the use of tampons, and douching should be avoided for six weeks to make sure the labia heals properly.

Labiaplasty surgery is one of the more affordable cosmetic procedures. Typically, it will cost between $4700 and $6000 depending on the type of anesthesia selected and the technique needed. However, it is difficult to make an accurate estimate for the total labiaplasty surgery cost without a consultation.

Dr. Lapuerta takes an individualized approach to every patient he sees, making sure to choose a treatment plan that is optimized for each patient’s unique needs. During a consultation, he will partner with the patient to determine the best way to achieve all of the patient’s goals. Following an evaluation and consultation, a treatment plan will be clearly discussed with the patient. 

Patient’s will be provided a complete quote for surgery which will include the fees for the surgeon, the facility, supplies and the anesthesiologist. Prescription medications, any necessary lab tests, medical pre-surgical evaluations, and pathology are not included in the quote as these vary between patients.

Ready to discuss vaginal rejuvenation or different types of labiaplasty procedures? To learn more, call or e-mail us to request a consultation with Dr. Lapuerta today!