As Valentine’s Day approaches, it’s natural for women to consider surgical procedures to enhance their bodies. For those who are considering a labiaplasty in time for Valentine’s Day, here are some important facts.

What Is a Labiaplasty?

The 2016 American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) report showed that labiaplasties have become increasingly popular, with over 12,000 procedures performed by ASPS members in 2016—a 39 percent increase from the previous year. Like breast implants, labiaplasties are performed for both cosmetic and functional reasons. It is a simple surgical procedure that involves trimming the labia minora tissue to help increase confidence or reduce discomfort. The procedure and recovery are relatively straightforward, and women can often heal after a short week home from work.

Reasons for Labiaplasty

Although some may be considering a labiaplasty for romantic reasons, there are a number of other reasons patients seek the procedure. Many women experience labial hypertrophy, or an increase in labia size, naturally over time or as a result of childbirth. This may be compounded by the loss of skin elasticity many women experience with age. Additionally, some find labiaplasties reduce discomfort during sports, while riding bikes, or when wearing tight clothing such as yoga pants or thongs.

Candidacy for Labiaplasty

As for any cosmetic surgery, those seeking the benefits of labiaplasty should consider quitting smoking, as it can contribute to complications during the healing process of the surgery. They should also inform surgeons of long-term medical conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes and share information about allergies or previous surgeries. Most importantly, women should approach their labiaplasty procedure with realistic expectations.

Healing From Labiaplasty Procedures

On the first one to three days following a labiaplasty, patients can expect to experience bruising and mild pain, which can be mitigated with prescribed pain medication. Patients should minimize walking during this time. In the following week, many patients will be able to return to work and perform normal physical activities, though it is not uncommon to need cold compresses or more healing time. After three to four weeks, incisions should be fully gone, and six weeks following surgery, patients can engage in sexual intercourse.

As with any procedure, labiaplasty should be discussed extensively with a surgeon before a final decision is made. For more information about the procedure, financing, or to schedule a consultation, call William Franckle, MD, FACS at (856) 772-6500 today.