Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure to reduce the size of the flaps of skin on either side of the vaginal opening (the labia minora). While some women opt for this surgery to improve the look of their labia, it’s completely normal to have noticeable skin folds. This elective procedure is often ideal for ladies above 18 years, as the labia minora is fully grown beyond puberty.
Labiaplasty cost in Los Angeles, CA, usually includes these costs:
- Your surgeon’s skills
- The geographical location of the clinic
- Surgical techniques applicable
- Medical facility fees
- Anesthesia fees
- Medications
- Surgical garments
Table of Contents
The Labiaplasty Procedure
During the aesthetic procedure, the surgeon decreases the labia minora to flush with the outer part of the female genitalia (the labia majora). Depending on the patient’s specific situation, the surgeon uses the appropriate surgical technique under either local or general anesthesia. The two main procedures are as follows:
Trim Procedure
Trim is the original and most popular labiaplasty technique. During the procedure, the surgeon removes the excess flap of the labia minora and sutures it ensuring it’s symmetrical with the labia majora.
Wedge Procedure
This surgery removes only a partial thickness (wedge) from the thickest part of the labia minora while leaving the submucosa intact. The result is a natural look of the vagina, with the colored edges still in place.
The key to achieving successful labiaplasty results is consulting a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in this procedure.
How Much Will Labiaplasty Cost You?
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average price of labiaplasty surgery is $3,053. This cost excludes anesthesia, surgical garments, operating room facilities, and other related expenses. Consult your cosmetic surgeon to determine the total cost and find other financing options for your procedure.
Recovery After Labiaplasty
Labiaplasty has a downtime of about two weeks, allowing your skin to heal fully. Within this period, you should gently clean the area to keep it free from infection, wear loose clothing to prevent friction and irritation, and avoid sex for up to six weeks.
Additionally, it would be best to use sanitary towels and not tampons for several weeks. Lastly, avoid strenuous physical activities such as heavy lifting, bending, or running for about six to twelve weeks to allow complete healing.
When Is a Revision Labiaplasty Necessary?
Like other cosmetic procedures, your first labiaplasty may not achieve your desired aesthetic results. The leading cause of a botched surgical procedure includes surgery by an inexperienced surgeon or using outdated methods, which may result in asymmetry, excessive scarring, or an insignificant difference from the initial appearance.
Any such outcomes may call for a revision labiaplasty.
During the revision, a professional plastic surgeon corrects mistakes during the first surgery. The surgeon also ensures they produce the desired outcome. Corrective procedures may include removing visible scar tissue that’s painful or undesirable and further resecting the labia minora.
In summary, here are the reasons for a revision labiaplasty.
Asymmetry
Both sides of the labia minora should appear balanced and proportional after a labiaplasty procedure.
Painful Scar Tissue
Excess scar tissue after surgery is often uncomfortable and sometimes painful during sex or when performing specific exercises.
Inadequate Tissue Removal
During the first surgery, the surgeon might be too conservative, and as a result, the patient doesn’t see much difference from the original appearance of the labia minora.
Bumpy Suture Lines
Scarring after suture removal should be subtle rather than visible when the surgeon performs the procedure correctly.
Labiaplasty Q&A
Q: Is revision labiaplasty a common procedure?
A: Revision surgery is rare, as it has a high satisfaction rate of over 90% for patients that choose a board-certified plastic surgeon.
Q: Does my insurance provider cover labiaplasty?
A: Since labiaplasty is an elective procedure (it’s not medically necessary), insurance providers usually won’t cover the surgery.
Q: Is labiaplasty surgery expensive?
A: The average labiaplasty cost is about $3,053, excluding the medical facility, medications, and other related expenses.
Q: How long do labiaplasty results last?
A: Labiaplasty is a one-time procedure with long-lasting results. But over time, you can choose to have fat injections or fillers to achieve your desired outcome.
Q: What should I avoid after surgery?
A: It’s important to avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and sex for up to a month after surgery, as you may risk bleeding and excess swelling on the wound.
Q: Will I lose sensitivity after labiaplasty surgery?
A: A professional surgeon safely performs the surgery, ensuring no nerve damage.
Q: Which complications require my doctor’s attention after surgery?
A: Signs of infection include fever and chills. Consult your surgeon if you notice swelling, redness, discharge, or excessive bleeding.
Q: Will labiaplasty scars be noticeable?
A: The surgeon usually makes subtle incisions that heal, leaving discrete scars that are often not visible. The area also has a healthy blood supply that promotes quick healing.
Q: Which clothes should you avoid after surgery?
A: You should avoid wearing workout pants, yoga pants, and swimming suits until you heal completely.
