Labiaplasty involves the delicate and artful reshaping of the labia minora (the inner lips) and has become one of our most requested procedures for its ability to relieve physical discomfort and improve aesthetics in ways that shapewear never could. And because there is no TMI when it comes to confidence for San Diego labiaplasty surgeon Dr. Katerina Gallus, we’re sharing the answers to some of the top questions patients ask her about labiaplasty during their consultations.
Will people be able to tell I’ve had a labiaplasty?
Probably not, unless you choose to tell them. Swelling and redness are normal for the first few weeks, but these fade, and once you’ve healed, the trimmed tissue blends seamlessly with your natural anatomy. Dr. Gallus is careful to follow the surgery plan you design together to remove as much or as little tissue as you desire for results that look like you, only more refined.
Will a labiaplasty leave scars?
Yes, but labiaplasty scars are virtually invisible. Dr. Gallus places incisions along the natural edges and creases of the labia minora, then closes them with ultra-fine, dissolvable sutures. After your labiaplasty, your body produces more collagen to help you heal. Collagen softens and camouflages the incision lines so well that even a magnifying mirror will have trouble finding them.
- Watch or listen to get unfiltered insight from Dr. Gallus herself in this podcast: The Lady Bits: A Guide to Labiaplasty by San Diego Female Plastic Surgeon
Will childbirth stretch/ruin a labiaplasty?
Hormones, pushing, and the general marvel that is childbirth may create mild stretching. Keep in mind that labiaplasty permanently removes excess tissue, so you may notice slight changes, but the refined size and look of the inner labia typically stays intact.
If you plan to grow your family soon, you might consider waiting for surgery, but you certainly don’t have to. Most patients remain happy with their results post-baby, and a minor touch-up at our San Diego plastic surgery center is always an option if needed.
Will I lose sensation “down there” after a labiaplasty?
Quite the opposite actually. Dr. Gallus is meticulous about preserving nerve pathways, so sensation usually stays the same or can even improve for some cases. Physical comfort is one of the biggest reasons patients choose labiaplasty, and most experience less irritation and greater comfort in leggings, jeans, or intimate moments. You may have some temporary numbness along the incision line, but this fades as the nerves awaken as you heal. Permanent loss of sensation is rare.
“I recently had the privilege of being under the care of Dr. Gallus, and I cannot express how grateful I am for the outstanding experience I had. Dr. Gallus is not only highly skilled but also an exceptionally personable and caring person. My procedure with Dr. Gallus went extremely well, and I couldn’t be happier with the results. Her post-operative care was as attentive as her pre-operative care, ensuring that my recovery was as smooth as possible. I wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Gallus to everyone.
—Google Review for Dr. Gallus
Is sex different after a labiaplasty?
Yes, but in a good way. Once healed (expect a six-week abstinence period), most patients find intercourse more comfortable because labiaplasty removes the tissue that causes discomfort from friction and pulling. Beyond the functional benefits of labiaplasty, many patients have greater confidence during these special moments, and that alone can dial intimacy up a notch. Your ability to orgasm remains unchanged after surgery—the clitoral hood and deeper nerves are untouched—so pleasure potential is all yours to explore. That said, Dr. Gallus can also refine the clitoral hood, which may enhance sensation in that area.
When can I wax after labiaplasty?
Give it six weeks. Your skin needs to be fully healed before waxing or shaving. Your labia and the surrounding areas are delicate, and ripping off wax strips or shaving over still-healing skin can be especially uncomfortable and prolong your full recovery and final results. You can keep the pubic area groomed with a trimmer (keeping the blade far from the surgical area) until Dr. Gallus clears you to resume your preferred hair-removal method. And yes, you can get laser hair removal anywhere you please once you’re ready.
Considering labiaplasty in San Diego? Let’s chat!
If these FAQs sparked more questions (or a little flutter of excitement), schedule a private consultation with Dr. Gallus. She’ll listen, answer every “Is this weird?” query with compassion and zero judgment, and craft a personalized plan to help you feel authentically you.
Call our La Jolla office at 858-224-2281 or request your appointment online today!
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