The Labiaplasty procedure has become a more popular procedure worldwide, as more and more women begin to explore vaginal rejuvenation. It is a very common procedure at Capizzi MD! The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports that around 10,000 labiaplasty procedures are completed each year.
What is a labiaplasty?
A labiaplasty procedure is cosmetic surgery that modifies the labia minor (inner lips) and/or the labia major (outer lips). Most often, it is performed on the labia minora. Also known as a labia minora reduction.
Why a labiaplasty?
Many reasons! The most common being: to increase comfort while wearing tight clothes (or bathing suits). When the inner labia are longer than the outer labia, it can make wearing these styles of clothing more uncomfortable or even impossible.
Another common reason for a labiaplasty is to improve appearance. Sometimes the labia is naturally longer on some women, and sometimes the appearance changes with childbirth or aging.
Do I need to go under general anesthesia?
No, you do not. At Capizzi MD, we are one of the only board-certified plastic surgery centers offering a labiaplasty under local anesthesia/numbing. Dr. Peter Capizzi has been performing these procedures for over 20 years and has assisted hundreds of patients with this process. To improve the experience, we have a fully-accredited surgery suite located in our Charlotte office, where all our labiaplasty procedures are performed.
At your consultation, Dr. Capizzi will determine what the best course of action is for your needs before recommending a certain type of anesthesia. Almost all labiaplasties involving the labia minora can be done under local anesthesia, with the assistance of Pronox. This means you can drive yourself to and from the procedure
What is recovery like?
The first couple of days you may experience some swelling and soreness. These side effects should not prevent you from walking, sitting, or driving and should be manageable with OTC pain medication.
- Wear loose clothing to avoid friction
- Take regular sitz baths (2-3 daily during the first week)
The swelling and soreness will subside in the first week, and you will return to the office for a follow-up 10-14 days after your labiaplasty. Avoid heavy lifting, exercise, and rigorous activity for the first few weeks following your procedure. Avoid tampons and sex for 4-6 weeks. Aside from those restrictions, resume your normal routine as you feel comfortable.
Does my insurance cover a labiaplasty? If not, what does it cost?
For most people, a labiaplasty is not medically necessary and would not be covered by insurance.
Cost is entirely dependent on the office/surgeon you go to. For surgeons that have an in-office surgery suite the cost is generally lower than surgeons who use hospital operating rooms
Expect to spend $3,750+ depending on your treatment plan. Call our Patient Care Coordinator for an exact quote ahead of your consultation.
How do I know if I need one?
Talk to your OBGYN if you think you may want this procedure. They will be able to point you in the direction of a board-certified plastic surgeon who performs labiaplasty procedures. Or, feel free to schedule a consultation with Dr. Capizzi to meet him and see if this may be an option for you
Any questions that we did not answer? Request a chat with us or call our office at 704-655-8988 to speak with any of our knowledgeable staff members about this or other procedures.