Labiaplasty
Labioplasty is a surgery performed on hypertrophied labias, the flaps which are present on either side overlying the vaginal introitus. These flaps act as protective guard to vaginal introitus and also help in lubrication.
This procedure has recently gained popularity and at many places, is the most frequently performed vaginal procedure. Let us understand what all this procedure is about.
It is usually performed for the following reasons:
correct overly large labias – these may rub against tight clothing or interfere with any sports activity. It may also make intercourse difficult and cause superficial dysparaunia.
Moderate to severe sagging in labial tissues.
Correct asymmetric labias, mainly for aesthetic concerns and low self esteem. Some partners may find it unattractive and it becomes an issue of concern for the females.
There have been various classifications of labial hypertrophies. These classifications are also important to decide the technique of surgical treatment. The important ones are as follows:
Motakef proposed a simplified classification system for labial protrusion based on the distance of the lateral edge of the labia minora from that of the labia majora
Three stages are described as -
stage I (0–2 cm)
stage II (2–4 cm)
stage III (more than 4 cm).
An “A” is added for asymmetry and a “C” for involvement of the clitoral hood.
Smarroto in 2017 proposed a new classification system of 3 types -
Type I anterior one third labial hypertrophy, “in the shape of a flag” which leaves the vaginal orifice unimpeded.
Type II middle third labial hypertrophy, “oblique”.
Type III posterior third labial hypertrophy, “complete” i.e. rounded and voluminous.
Any patient from 18 years to elderly can undergo this procedure. It should not be done on girls younger than 18 because the labia continues to grow beyond puberty into early adulthood.
Pre marriage, females usually opt for surgery if they have congenitally asymmetric labial flaps. With age, if labias sag down, then females opt for surgery. Some patients may require additional procedures to be done along eg labial augmentation, mons liposuction etc.
Though labioplasty is a simple surgery but involves significant risks if not done properly.
Patient should make sure that the doctor she chooses is either a well experienced plastic surgeon or a gynae cosmetic surgeon.
WE, AT KALOSA, ARE WELL EXPERIENCED AND WELL TRAINED FOR YOUR NEEDS.
Patient is examined before surgery by our team of doctors and labial hypertrophy categorized according to the standard classification. Expectations of the patient are also noted. Patient should note that small hypertrophies can be uncomfortable during sexual intercourse if they are low. However, large high hypertrophies do not cause discomfort during sexual intercourse, although they can be very unaesthetic.
They are assessed for any co existing co morbidities and blood investigations are ordered accordingly. If patient is on any blood thinner, it is stopped prior to the surgery.
Patient is allowed to come only with one attendant to avoid overcrowding.
Patient can have light meals and come, if the surgery is decided for local anaesthesia. However if the patient has opted for general anaesthesia, patient should be empty stomach , i.e. no food, liquids including water orally for atleast 8 hours prior to surgery.
There should not be any upper respiratory tract infection or any fever at the day of surgery or any other major contraindication.
Patient is asked to fill the consent form which also briefs about the possible complications.
It is preferable if pubic hair trimming is done 2 days prior to the surgery to avoid any fresh cuts.
Preoperative photograph is taken.
Local anaesthesia sensitivity testing is done.
Patient is asked to pass urine and proceed to OT room.
Labioplasty is usually done under local anaesthesia as a short OPD procedure. Any patient who is extra sensitive to pain can opt for general anaesthesia. Then also, the surgery is done under daycare admission.
Surgery is done in lithotomy position. Technique can be direct excision or wedge resection.
After anaesthesia, small incisions are made in the labia, excess tissue is excised, the remaining tissue is tightened and shaped to restore symmetry and incisions are closed with sutures.
Direct excision provides a very simple technique for the removal of excess tissue but many surgeons think that it is not the most effective procedure, because the scar along the border of the labia can damage the patient's sensation. Also, the natural border is replaced with a different contour, colouration and texture along the edge of the labia minora.
In wedge resection technique, resection is positioned over the most protuberant region of the labia minora. It reduces the size of the labia while preserving the labial border.
Often laser (usually CO2) is also used for labioplasty.
Patient is instructed to take adequate rest for atleast a week.
Proper hygiene should be maintained and the area should be kept clean.
It is important to wear loose underwear and clothes so that there is no rubbing against the edges of labias.
Intercourse is to be avoided for 6 weeks and vigorous physical activity should also be resumed from 6 weeks.
Sanitary pads should be used instead of tampons but better would be to postpone the next menses through oral hormones.
Early complications may include pain and bleeding.
Late complications may include scarring, infection and rarely necrosis of the labial flap. These complications may be decreased if you choose an experienced surgeon.
Recovery is relatively straightforward for most patients. Discomfort after surgery is typically mild and easily controlled with the prescribed pain medication. Patients typically return to work within 7 days and resume exercise within 6 to 8 weeks.
Team of highly qualified doctors- Dr Deepti Asthana is an internationally trained gynae cosmetic surgeon whereas Dr Ashish Khare is an experienced plastic and cosmetic surgeon
Each patient gets individual personal attention and care.
Surgery is tailored according to your needs and expectations.
Clinic set on high standards with great ambience.
Well trained staff.
Clinic equipped with latest state of the art technology and equipment.
Innumerable happy patients and great past results.
Clinic Timings
Mon to Sat : 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Sunday : 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
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