In the United States alone, labiaplasty procedures saw a 36% increase in one year. Worldwide, they rose 73% from 2015 to 2020. The percentages are, indeed, impactful, so much so that scientists have conducted research concerning the motives for the surgery.
What Is a Labiaplasty?
A labiaplasty mainly consists of reshaping the labia minora tissue of the vagina. They are the “lips” of the vulva, which can vary in shape and size.
A labiaplasty can also address concerns about the labia majora (outer lips), the clitoral hood, or the pubic area.
How Is a Labiaplasty Performed?
Labiaplasty is an outpatient surgical procedure that lasts between 1 and 2 hours. Therefore, it does not require overnight stays at the hospital or clinic.
Before the surgery, your doctor will apply anesthesia—either local or general, depending on your case. During the procedure, the unwanted tissue is cut away with a scalpel or a laser. After that, the resulting edges are stitched (stitches may be dissolvable).
The Motives behind the Rise in Popularity
Even though labiaplasty is an invasive and intimate treatment, more and more women are deciding to go ahead with it.
In their research paper called “Factors That Influence the Decision to Undergo Labiaplasty: Media, Relationships, and Psychological Well-Being”, the authors concluded that women’s motivations to undergo a labiaplasty due to concerns about their labia’s appearance. These are despite most patients having labia within the normal ranges or size and appearance. Their argument is that they were seeking a more “neat” and “tidy” aesthetic.
In addition to the aesthetic concerns, women alleged physical reasons to get labiaplasty. They allege discomfort while wearing tight clothes or doing physical activities like cycling or horseback riding. Admittedly, tugging or thrusting can cause pain and soreness which can hamper the experience of sports.
Furthermore, patients allege that tugging and sagging causes discomfort during intimate interactions. Intimacy plays an important role in self-esteem and self-perception, which is why it should come as no surprise that many patients also reported being influenced by their partner’s comments about their or someone else’s labia’s appearance.
Lastly, the research found that media exposure was also an important factor that influenced women’s decision to get labiaplasty. Women who were exposed to female genitalia on the Internet and in advertisements internalize these images and accept them as the norm, making these aspirational.
In Conclusion
The literature therefore suggests that appearance concerns in combination with physical, sexual, and emotional/interpersonal discomfort can contribute to the decision to undergo labiaplasty.
Analyzing the Risks and Benefits of Labiaplasty
Complications are infrequent and can include:
- Removing too much tissue or not enough tissue.
- Infection (as with any surgical procedure).
- Wound breakdown.
- Scarring.
- Loss of sensitivity.
On the other hand, benefits include:
- Improved sexual pleasure and confidence.
- Enhanced self-confidence.
- A more symmetrical and youthful appearance.
- Reduced discomfort in general.
- Improved hygiene.
- Higher comfort while exercising.
A Word If You Are Considering a Labiaplasty…
If you’re considering labiaplasty, it’s essential to weigh both your desired outcomes and the risks carefully. While the procedure can offer significant improvements in comfort, confidence, and overall quality of life, it’s also important to be fully informed about what it entails. Speak openly with your healthcare provider about your motivations, expectations, and any concerns you might have. Remember, the decision to undergo labiaplasty should be made for you and your well-being, prioritizing your physical and emotional health above all else.
If you would like to learn more about our labiaplasty services, book a confidential one-on-one appointment at Women’s Health Institute with Dr. Umerah. Send us an online message or call (478) 746-2888 to schedule a consultation at our Macon or Warner Robins offices.