Labiaplasty is one of the most stigmatized cosmetic procedures—and one of the most sought-after procedures amongst women in recent years, with demand for this particular procedure rising sharply. But why?
Although plastic surgery has become more socially accepted, labiaplasty still remains largely taboo and often shrouded in mystery and misunderstanding. Here, female San Diego plastic surgeon Dr. Katerina Gallus weighs in on why there has been a rise in labiaplasty’s popularity and helps debunk common misconceptions that may needlessly prevent women of all ages from this procedure’s medical and aesthetic benefits.
With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Gallus is a board certified plastic surgeon and Castle Connolly Top Doctor. She will partner with you to develop a tailored surgical plan that prioritizes your safety and results.
What is labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that primarily involves trimming and reshaping labia minora tissue. The labia minora are the inner folds or “lips” of the vulva, and they can vary in size and shape. La Jolla plastic surgery patients can also address the labia majora (outer labia), the clitoral hood, and the mons pubis (the area over your pubic bone) with a labiaplasty procedure.
The rise of labiaplasty
According to recent statistics, labiaplasty procedures increased 36% from 2020 to 2021, which likely stems from one or more factors discussed below.
Increased awareness of labiaplasty procedures
The greater awareness of this procedure is largely due to increased access to online resources and social media platforms, which have allowed women to better understand their options. And with increased awareness, patients are less likely to feel embarrassed or ashamed about discussing or undergoing this procedure.
Armed with credible information, unfiltered labiaplasty before-and-after photos, and personal testimonials, patients can make an informed choice about meeting with a San Diego plastic surgeon for a consultation, where the surgeon can provide a more personalized treatment plan for aesthetically pleasing results based on each patient’s unique anatomy and goals.
Labiaplasty is simply another form of health care that women should feel empowered to discuss openly with their surgeon if it appeals to them.
Desire for aesthetic improvement
The desire to feel more confident in intimate situations or while wearing tight clothing may motivate women to seek labiaplasty. Longer or multiple folds of labia minora tissue are normal and natural, yet some women feel self-conscious about having labia that visibly protrudes through fitted clothing or interferes with intimate relationships. Labiaplasty can often help these women by removing the excess tissue, allowing the inner labia to be tucked away neatly within the outer labia.
Personal comfort
Some women may also choose labiaplasty to correct congenital abnormalities or asymmetry, alleviate medical issues like recurrent infections, or address tissue changes after childbearing, weight fluctuations, and menopause. Most women who have experienced physical problems due to large or protruding labial tissue find relief from chafing, irritation, or pain during exercise or sexual activity after a successful labiaplasty.
“I highly recommend Dr. Gallus and her team. I was nervous about the whole process of a labiaplasty so I really appreciated how great her whole team was walking me through each step of the process and answering all my questions. Everyone was so professional, kind, patient and made the experience a very positive one. I felt listened to which is very important for me with such a personal surgery. Surgery day was a breeze and on post op day 1 I barely have any pain even without taking the pain medication.”
—Review from real labiaplasty patient of Dr. Gallus
Changing attitudes towards plastic surgery
The stigma surrounding plastic surgery, in general, has decreased, making it more socially acceptable as celebrities and influencers openly discuss their own experiences with cosmetic procedures. The body positivity movement and support of individual choices has also contributed to the growing acceptance of labiaplasty as a personal health decision.
Debunking myths surrounding labiaplasty
Labiaplasty is not without controversy, with some arguing that it is a cosmetic procedure that reinforces unrealistic beauty standards for women. Contrary to popular belief, labiaplasty isn’t just about achieving aesthetically pleasing or “designer” vaginas. In fact, the vast majority of women who choose to have this procedure done are primarily motivated by improving their overall quality of life.
Pornography isn’t the motivating factor behind labiaplasty
A 2020 study published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal showed that porn is not typically the motivating factor when women pursue this surgery—only 11% of the 124 patients who participated in the study indicated that pornography influenced their decision to seek labiaplasty. Pornography’s role appears minor compared to other factors, such as anxiety about partners’ reactions, personal body image issues, and the desire to be more physically comfortable.
Labiaplasty is not highly invasive, nor is the downtime significant
If performed as a standalone procedure, labiaplasty is safely and comfortably performed using medical-grade numbing cream and local anesthetic; you can drive home immediately after the procedure—which typically takes less than an hour. La Jolla plastic surgeon Dr. Katerina Gallus also offers her patients oral sedation if you prefer deeper relaxation (we will simply ask you to have a designated driver to take you home). Labiaplasty is also commonly performed as part of a combination mommy makeover procedure, in which case you’ll be under general anesthesia.
While this area of the body is sensitive and delicate, labiaplasty techniques and recovery are relatively straightforward. Pain medication can be taken as needed for a few days during the initial healing process. For the first week of your recovery, patients are advised to rest and relax at home and wear loose, comfortable bottoms; most patients resume light activity by day three or four. Generally speaking, any bruising or swelling should start resolving within days to weeks post-surgery; most physical activities can gradually resume after about six weeks when the incisions are fully healed.
Sexual function or sensation is not negatively impacted by labiaplasty
Women can rest assured that labiaplasty will not negatively impact their ability to become sexually aroused or successfully reach orgasm. In fact, the relief from physical discomfort and the boost in self-confidence will likely enhance intimate experiences after labiaplasty.
Labiaplasty results are permanent
Labiaplasty results persist over time, meaning repeat surgeries are typically unnecessary after childbearing or menopause. Your tissues may stretch some after these instances and with the natural aging process; however, tissue removal is permanent.
“I recently had a procedure done to reduce the discomfort I have with my body & Dr. Gallus & Bri are amazing! I was very much anxious about this procedure since I’ve never done anything else but they were both super helpful answering all my questions & easing my anxiety. I’m now post 3-ish months & my life has definitely improved much more than it was prior to the procedure.”
—Review from real labiaplasty patient of Dr. Gallus
Why your choice of surgeon matters
Patients should choose a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in labiaplasty for several reasons:
- Board-certified plastic surgeons have undergone extensive training and certification in plastic surgery, including labiaplasty, to perform the procedure safely and effectively.
- Board-certified plastic surgeons adhere to strict ethical standards and regulations, which includes providing honest and transparent information about the procedure, ensuring informed consent, and putting the patient’s safety and well-being first.
- Board-certified plastic surgeons operate in accredited surgical facilities that meet rigorous safety standards and have the necessary equipment, staff, and protocols to ensure the safety and comfort of patients before, during, and after the procedure.
In addition to these criteria, the plastic surgeon you choose to perform your labiaplasty should connect with you, listen to your experiences, and be able to facilitate an open and honest conversation about your goals to personalize your procedure to achieve optimal comfort and any aesthetic preferences you may have.
About female board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Katerina Gallus
As a female plastic surgeon San Diego patients have trusted for years, Dr. Katerina Gallus of Restore SD Plastic Surgery is committed to destigmatizing labiaplasty and vaginal health by offering a simple surgical solution to a common concern. Proudly serving the San Diego and La Jolla areas, Dr. Gallus would be happy to meet with you privately to discuss any questions or concerns you have about your “unmentionables.” Alongside her compassionate, expert medical team, Dr. Gallus is dedicated to achieving results that will improve your physical comfort, enhance your appearance, and boost your confidence and overall well-being.
We invite you to schedule a consultation by calling (858) 224-2281 or contacting our practice online today.
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