When is Labiaplasty Deemed a Medical Necessity?

By: Dr. Sean Kelishadi, M.D. FACS

3/4/2020

Labiaplasty is an increasingly popular procedure that reduces the size of the labia minora. Whether you were born with a large or irregular labia, or have developed one due to aging or childbirth, this procedure can help you feel more comfortable with your own body by relieving the pain often associated with this condition. At SSK Plastic Surgery, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sean Kelishadi can take care of low-hanging tissues to reveal a smoother appearance. This treatment also allows for a smaller and more visually-appealing vagina. Learn more about labiaplasty surgery by contacting our team in Newport Beach, CA for a consultation. The majority of women who have undergone labiaplasty have reported a great improvement in the quality of their lives.

Do I have an enlarged labia?

The shape and size of the labia widely differ among women. It can change for a number of reasons, such as genetics or natural aging. Labia minora hypertrophy (LMH) is a condition that can cause problems with hygiene and lead to infections, especially in the vagina or urinary tract. It may also prevent some women from wearing tight-fitting clothing such as leggings or bathing suits. As a result, an enlarged labia can cause feelings of self-consciousness and embarrassment in both public and private situations.

Many women who have an asymmetrical or enlarged labia are also prohibited from engaging in sexual activities. While some women avoid sex because of the appearance of their vagina, others experience pain during sexual intercourse. If LMH is interfering with your overall sexual health, it’s time to speak with a trusted and skilled plastic surgeon with experience in this area. Allow Dr. Kelishadi to perform an evaluation to see if you can benefit from cosmetic surgery. A medically necessary labiaplasty may be able to resolve these issues and more.

What happens during a medically necessary labiaplasty?

Labiaplasty surgery is traditionally performed in an office setting under local anesthesia. Dr. Kelishadi has written articles that describe a successful technique he helped devise for this procedure and may employ this method based on your condition and goals. A medically necessary labiaplasty involves removing the affected tissue while the remaining portions are brought into the right shape. At SSK Plastic Surgery, our hope is to achieve the perfect amount of aesthetic appeal with optimal function. We are careful to place sutures in natural creases of the body, so they are nearly invisible when healed.

It is important to remember that a labiaplasty procedure can be performed for many reasons. This surgery enables women to experience renewed confidence and sexual health. If you are considering undergoing a labiaplasty with SSK Plastic Surgery, we may also review other types of cosmetic surgery that can be performed at the same time for even more positive outcomes. For example, a mommy makeover can include labiaplasty with breast augmentation, liposuction, or tummy tuck surgery so you can achieve gorgeous results. We are honored to serve with the finest attention and care in Newport Beach, CA.

What is recovery like?

Before any surgery, the administrative staff at SSK Plastic Surgery will offer helpful post-surgical instructions for home care and expected recovery time. It is important to follow our instructions to facilitate proper healing. Patients should keep in mind that not everyone will experience the same recovery following labiaplasty, so we will let you know what to generally expect. Recovery should take about 7 – 10 days, and discomfort should be minimal. Patients can return to work within a few days but should refrain from strenuous activities such as running, biking, and heavy lifting. Dr. Kelishadi will let you know when you can resume sexual activity. As a member of our extended family at SSK Plastic Surgery, you should call us if you have any questions or concerns.

Learn more by contacting our office

Women who are unhappy with the comfort or appearance of their labia can trust labiaplasty surgery to restore their confidence. When performed by an expert like Orange County plastic surgeon Dr. Sean Kelishadi, the results can be truly life-changing. The removal of unnecessary vaginal tissue can greatly enhance a woman’s ability to enjoy wearing their favorite clothing and improve their sexual health. When you are ready to discuss getting a labiaplasty or another cosmetic surgery, reach out to the professional team at SSK Plastic Surgery for a consultation in Newport Beach, CA.

* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.