Labiaplasty in St. Petersburg, FL

While it isn't discussed openly, some women worry about the size and shape of their vaginal lips, which may cause them to be less confident. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. John J. O'Brien Jr. can help St. Petersburg, FL women feel more attractive and comfortable with surgical vaginal rejuvenation to correct the shape and size of the labia. The labia, which are the external lips of the vaginal area, can look larger or have hanging skin caused by natural aging, childbirth, pregnancy, or an injury. A labiaplasty surgically decreases the size of the labia majora and/or minora to create an improved look. This may minimize irritation and discomfort while raising sexual pleasure and confidence. Come in for a consult at St. Petersburg Center for Plastic Surgery in St. Petersburg, FL to hear more about labiaplasty and see if you may be a candidate.

Surgery for the labia at St. Petersburg Center for Plastic Surgery can be beneficial for women who are concerned about the size and shape of their vagina lips, which can be enlarged because of childbirth, genetics, or a physical trauma. Abnormal vaginal lips may cause discomfort, pain, irritation, or itching when engaging in activities like sex and exercise. Surgical vaginal rejuvenation can also be beneficial if you don't wear tight clothes (such as leggings, yoga pants, or bathing suits) because of the appearance of your vaginal area. While labia surgery shouldn't impact your ability to get pregnant, Dr. O'Brien advises you to wait until you are done childbearing to prevent changing your results.

Many vaginal rejuvenation treatments can be completed in our procedure room with a local anesthetic, so you may drive yourself to and from our office. If your treatment plan is more complex, you may need to be put under general anesthesia, so you will need to have a responsible person to drive you home following your procedure. Dr. O'Brien can talk about your treatment plan and more at your consultation so you may make arrangements, if needed, prior to your appointment. A labiaplasty is typically done with the trim technique to remove extra tissue, then the remaining skin is stitched so it is taut. Also available is the wedge technique to remove a triangular area of skin and excess folds from the clitoris before stitching the skin closed.

You should take around one week to heal following your labiaplasty to allow discomfort and swelling to fade away before returning to normal activities. Dr. O'Brien suggests applying a cold compress or ice pack if needed to minimize inflammation. You should not have sexual activity or use tampons for at least 4 – 6 weeks following your procedure. Patients generally notice visible results in around six weeks and final results about six months following the procedure. The improvements of vaginal rejuvenation are usually long lasting; however, childbirth, natural aging, and weight fluctuations can impact your result.

How much does a labiaplasty cost?
Your labiaplasty cost will depend on several factors. In your initial consultation with Dr. O'Brien, He will understand your needs and wants before developing your unique surgical plan. When you have finalized your labiaplasty options, Dr. O'Brien can start to estimate your costs. St. Petersburg Center for Plastic Surgery takes several payments and we can give you information on low-interest financing.

Should I choose a plastic surgeon or OB/GYN?
As you research surgical vaginal rejuvenation, you will discover that many OB/GYNs (obstetricians and gynecologists) perform labiaplasty. Although most OB/GYNs can perform a labiaplasty, they may not be your best choice. An OB/GYN can remove loose skin from your vaginal lips, but a plastic surgeon like Dr. O'Brien will focus on other aspects as well. He will ensure minimal scarring, and your final contour, color, and symmetry are natural-looking.

Will vaginal rejuvenation surgery cause insensitivity?
Like most surgeries, you may have decreased sensitivity in the treated area for a while. This is usually temporary as your skin and tissue recover. For those concerned about sexual sensitivity, it's important to realize that a labiaplasty shapes the vaginal lips and will not affect the nerves of the clitoris. A skilled plastic surgeon like Dr. O'Brien with years of training and experience in cosmetic vaginal surgery will avoid the clitoris to prevent desensitizing the area.

What is the recovery process like after a labiaplasty?
Prior to your procedure, Dr. O'Brien or someone on his team will discuss what you can expect following your labiaplasty as well as suggestions to speed your recovery. You should expect some swelling and bruising in the treated areas plus a certain amount of discomfort right after your procedure. You need to stay home for at least a week before resuming nonstrenuous activities. Dr. O'Brien will evaluate your recovery in your check-up appointments and tell you when you can resume exercise and sexual activity.

Are there nonsurgical vaginal rejuvenation treatments?
Nonsurgical vaginal rejuvenation treatments are available, which may improve mild vaginal laxity. However, a labiaplasty is better for dramatic improvements to reshape and tighten your labia. In your initial consultation with Dr. O'Brien, he will explain your surgical and nonsurgical treatment options and give you suggestions as to what will best fit your goals.

Every vagina is not identical and many variables can affect the appearance of the outer labia. If you do not feel confident or comfortable because of the shape and size of your labia, find out more information about vaginal rejuvenation surgery. Talk to plastic surgeon Dr. John J. O'Brien Jr. about your concerns and needs so he can develop your custom labiaplasty treatment plan. Schedule an appointment at St. Petersburg Center for Plastic Surgery in St. Petersburg, FL to hear more about vaginal rejuvenation with a labiaplasty.