It’s not something most women want to talk about, but it’s certainly something many of them feel self-conscious about. Overly large labia can interfere with sexual activity or even daily activities such as walking or cycling. A labia reduction, performed by board-certified Manhattan plastic surgeon and general surgeon Richard W. Swift, Jr., M.D., F.A.C.S., can help ease or eliminate these issues, giving you a more proportionate vagina and helping you relax and enjoy the moment, without worrying about pain or awkwardness.
What Is a Labia Reduction?The skin surrounding the inner opening of the vagina (the labia) may be misshapen, irregularly shaped or otherwise require reduction. Sometimes these issues can be congenital in nature and lead many women to feel they’re “not normal.” Many women who choose to have a labia reduction feel that the cultural changes and the predominance of waxing and other hair removal techniques lead to a greater focus on the labia. A labia reduction can make these flaps of skin appear less dominant.
Many women choose to have a labia reduction as a personal gift to themselves. They may feel this area simply gets in the way and choose to have it reduced. In doing so, they report the following benefits:
- Less self-consciousness about the affected area
- A vagina that is more proportionate with their body
- Improved self-esteem and greater intimacy
We invite you to browse our extensive catalog of cosmetic surgeries and treatments to see the types of results Dr. Swift has obtained for his patients. Keep in mind that each individual is different and that you’ll learn more about the outcome you can expect from your specific surgery or treatment at your consultation with Dr. Swift.
Dr. Swift will make a few inconspicuous incisions and use dissolvable sutures to trim the labia and give them a more proportional and symmetric shape. Labiaplasty can relieve the discomfort of tight-fitting clothing, sports activities, and intercourse. Local anesthetic will be used; however, a board-certified anesthesiologist is on staff to offer intravenous sedation if you wish. The entire process takes about an hour.
Preparing for Labia ReductionTo experience the best possible results from your labia reduction surgery, you should refrain from using aspirin (including medications that may contain aspirin) as well as herbs such as St. John’s Wort and Vitamin E as these can increase bleeding. You should stop smoking for at least two weeks prior to and one week after surgery as nicotine can affect your circulation and healing.
Labia Reduction RecoveryYou may experience mild swelling, bruising, and tenderness in the affected area. You should be able to return to work within 2-4 days after your labia reduction surgery and can resume sexual activity within six weeks. Avoid strenuous exercise for at least three weeks after surgery. You will need to wash the area carefully and apply antibiotic cream as directed.
Is Labia Reduction Right for Me?If you’ve felt self-conscious about your labia and would like it to be more proportionate or symmetrical, a labia reduction may be right for you. It may also be the right procedure if you feel discomfort from sexual activity, tight-fitting clothing, or sports due to enlarged labia.
How Much Does a Labia Reduction Cost?Costs for your labia reduction treatment will vary depending on the extent of surgery or the number of treatments needed to achieve your desired result. Most insurance plans do not cover plastic surgery or specific cosmetic treatments. Dr. Swift accepts payment via cash, check, or credit card, as well as Prosper Healthcare Lending as a financing option.
Why Choose Dr. Swift?Board-certified plastic surgeon Richard W. Swift, Jr., M.D., F.A.C.S. provides a variety of cosmetic surgeries and treatments to help improve and enhance your natural beauty. A graduate of Yale and Brown University, Dr. Swift has earned prestigious awards for his vast medical expertise and experience. In addition to offering a wide range of cosmetic surgery options, Dr. Swift can also provide detailed consultations on surgical techniques, alternative treatments, and pre- and post-operative care. Throughout the process, his number one goal is to deliver personalized, high-quality, one-on-one care to ensure your complete comfort and satisfaction.
What to Expect During Your Consultation?Dr. Swift will take the time to carefully explain the labia reduction process, as well as examine the area to be treated. As all labia are different shapes and sizes, a unique plan will be crafted to help you enjoy greater satisfaction with your body. Dr. Swift is glad to answer all your questions and help you feel more at ease with the overall process.
If you’re ready to embrace a more symmetrical, feminine vaginal appearance and want to stop feeling self-conscious about the way you look, a labia reduction can help. Contact our Manhattan, NYC office today to schedule your consultation.