Labia reduction surgery is a type of cosmetic surgery that is usually performed on females. The procedure involves surgically altering the size, shape, or position of the labia minora (inner lips) or labia majora (outer lips). There are several reasons why people look to reduce the size of their labia.
In this article, renowned labiaplasty surgeon from Toronto, Dr David Gerber, will share more information about what labia reduction surgery is and how it is performed and if it is right for you.
What is labia surgery?
As Dr David Gerber shares, labia minora reduction surgery is usually performed on women during the ages of 16 to 23 years, as this is when most young women are experiencing their first menstrual cycle. The surgery is usually used as a form of body therapy, as it is believed that a labia minora reduction can reduce premenstrual symptoms such as irritability and mood swings. Unfortunately, labia reduction is not recommended for those who are sexually active.
According to Dr Gerber, labia surgery can be performed using several methods, depending on the specific doctor performing the operation. Some surgeons will choose to perform a labia reduction by making an incision on both sides of the labia minora tissue and then trimming or reducing the excess.
Others will choose to make an incision on one side and then complete the operation on the other side.
Yet other surgeons will choose to perform labia reduction by making an incision along the length of the labia minora. This is known as a “smooth-side” labia reduction procedure. Other surgeons will choose to perform labia reduction by making an incision on either side of the labia majora and then reducing the excess tissue. This is known as a “comminuted” labia majora reduction.
Is Labia Reduction Surgery Right for You?
Dr David Gerber, who has performed minimally invasive gynecologic surgery for over 15 years, indicates that it is important to weigh the pros and cons of labia reduction before you decide to undergo the procedure. While most labia reduction surgery is performed on young women, it is possible to have this type of surgery at any age. However, it is important to be sure that you are ready to undergo such a significant change in your body.
As the experienced surgeon states, there are a few things you should keep in mind before you decide to undergo labia reduction.
First, you should ask yourself if you think it would be helpful to have a smaller labia minora. It is important to note that there is no conclusive evidence that labia reduction will help reduce premenstrual symptoms, which is one of the reasons why it is still performed in some cases. If you decide that labia reduction is right for you, you will have to weigh the pros and cons of the procedure, such as how it will affect your intimate life, how long the procedure will take, and how long it will take to heal. You will also have to consider the financial costs of the surgery, as well as any possible risks associated with labia reduction, such as scarring or damaging your sexual function.
Post-operative care after labia reduction surgery
Labia reduction surgery is usually completed in one surgery session. However, if the person chooses to have a second procedure, it will be performed in a second surgery session.
Some surgeons will recommend that the person wear a compression garment once they are home from the hospital, while others will not. The wound should be cleaned and covered with a bandage. You may want to wear a new garment for a few days, or you may want to wear your own underwear.
The doctor will recommend how long you should wear your garment. There are no specific guidelines for how long you should wait before having sex after labia reduction surgery. However, there are some people who choose to wait 3 to 6 months before they engage in such activities. You can use any feminine hygiene product that you would normally use after your period. There are not many differences between products used before and after labia reduction surgery.
Possible side effects of labia reduction surgery
Based on his experience, Dr David Gerber indicates that some people who undergo labia reduction surgery report mild to moderate pain after the surgery. In most cases, the pain will subside in a few days, although some women may experience moderate to severe pain that lingers for weeks. It is also possible that the wound on your genitals will become infected after labia reduction surgery. This can be treated by your doctor with antibiotics, although it is important to visit the doctor if the wound becomes painful or red. It is also important to note that the labia reduction procedure will cause your labia minora to become smaller than they were before surgery. If you notice any change in the size of your labia minora, you should consult your doctor.
Conclusion
Labia reduction is a very popular cosmetic surgery for women. However, it is important to note that it is not recommended for women who plan to have sex. If you are contemplating labia reduction, then you should weigh the pros and cons of the procedure before you decide to have the procedure done.
You can also contact Dr David Gerber for a consultation. This labiaplasty surgeon has also developed a micro-surgical procedure for labia reduction surgery, which he has been performing for many years, along with precancerous vulva, vagina, and cervix surgery. So, he will be glad to help you.