Frequently Asked Questions
What are the labia?
The labia majora refers to the outer lips of the vagina while the labia minora is another name for the inner lips of the vagina. Both the labia majora and labia minora protect the vaginal opening and expand during sex.
They can be long or short, thick or thin, and vary in size. While the labia may vary in color, it should be free of white patches, moles, and blisters. If it contains any of these features or itches and burns, there is likely a health issue and the patient should see a doctor immediately.
What causes a large labia?
Some women are born with a labia that’s abnormally large or thick. Other women develop a large labia after they have a baby or during the natural process of aging. Regardless of the cause, there is no reason to live with a large labia if it leads to self-esteem issues or discomfort.
The most common symptoms of a large labia include a visibly larger vagina, irritation or discomfort in the crotch area when wearing tight clothing, a noticeable “bulge” in a woman’s underwear or swimsuit, chronic vaginal yeast infections, and discomfort during physical activities such as exercise or sex.
Unless a large labia is physically and emotionally affecting a woman’s quality of life, it does not need treated. If a woman chooses to pursue treatment, however, a labiaplasty may be a great option.
Can women who haven’t had children undergo a labiaplasty?
Yes. The issue isn’t whether or not a woman has had children. It’s whether an enlarged labia has left them uncomfortable and unhappy with the appearance or comfort of their vaginal area.
While labiaplasty results should hold after childbirth, women should understand that hormones during the third trimester of pregnancy may lead to some regrowth. Therefore, it may be a good idea for women to wait until they’re done having children before undergoing a labiaplasty.
Will I need to stop sexual activity after a labiaplasty?
Dr. Sessa asks labiaplasty patients to refrain from sexual activity for about 6 weeks after their surgery.
Can a labiaplasty be combined with other procedures?
Women who undergo labiaplasty often pair it with other surgical procedures such as liposuction or breast augmentation to achieve dramatic, full-body results. Many women also opt for a clitoral hood reduction if they are bothered by excess folds of skin on their clitoral hood. Dr. Sessa designs a custom treatment plan for each patient that is ideal for their aesthetic goals.
Will a labiaplasty leave noticeable scars?
Scarring is a common concern among women considering a labiaplasty procedure. Fortunately, any scars from labiaplasty are typically well-concealed and virtually unnoticeable. Dr. Sessa makes every effort to reduce the appearance of scarring as much as he can.
Is labiaplasty painful?
During a labiaplasty, Dr. Sessa will administer an anesthetic to eliminate pain and discomfort. He may also prescribe pain medication after the surgery. He recommends that patients avoid long periods of sitting for the first few days after the surgery, as doing so can minimize discomfort.
What are some strategies that will improve the recovery period?
After a labiaplasty, Dr. Sessa encourages women to wear loose clothing and refrain from using tampons for about 10 days. They should also stay away from baths and exercise and use a stool softener to reduce the risk of constipation.
How will a labiaplasty affect sexual pleasure?
The way a patient’s labia affected their sex life before the surgery will determine how a labiaplasty affects their sexual pleasure. If their enlarged labia interfered with sexual activity and intimacy prior to the cosmetic surgery, they can expect to see a significant improvement in their sex life after a labiaplasty.
