Everything to Know About Labiaplasty

February 21, 2020

Labiaplasty is unfortunately one of those things that is basically just NEVER talked about. We sadly seem to have been conditioned by society not to talk about certain things and women’s intimate issues are definitely near the top of that list. At The Plastic Surgery Clinic, we want to break down a lot of these barriers and let people know they have someone to talk to about those things “we’re not supposed to talk about.”

If you haven’t heard of labiaplasty, otherwise known as labia reduction, it could be because of these reasons. So we’re going to talk about it, or write A LOT about it here 😉

Here’s the thing: just the way we don’t all have the same hair, eye colour, nose, boobs, butt (you get it, we all look different) and even if we’re identical twins, we still have things that differentiate us. There’s no other me and no other you, is what we’re trying to say, meaning that there’s not just one type of vulva either.

Surprise! But it’s true, each and every one of our vulvas has something distinctive about it, and obviously this is great—difference keeps life interesting. But some women may love their distinctive labial features less than others. Here’s why.

Is Labiaplasty Common?

If you have heard of labiaplasty, it may be because you are someone who is looking for a labia reduction procedure. Labiaplasty consists of reducing the size of or reshaping the inner lips of the vulva or the labia minora, in medical lingo (fun fact, “labia” is actually latin for “lips”).

Unless you are someone who has been affected by this, many people are not aware of how much discomfort oversized, unusually shaped, or asymmetrical labia can cause for a woman. Elongated labia can cause discomfort when exercising, running or sitting on a bike; it can cause pain during intercourse, or even make wearing certain clothes uncomfortable. You may even have issues using tampons, or simply feel discomfort walking.

Imagine the simplest day-to-day activities impacted by constant discomfort or even pain. For many, that’s a reality. And if you’re not necessarily uncomfortable physically, you may feel stressed, anxious, or embarrassed about the appearance of your labia.

But take heart, because you’re not alone. You really aren’t! According to The American Society of Plastic Surgery more women than ever are opting for labia reduction surgery, and cosmetic reasons are not the primary motivation. Why now? Why are plastic surgeons performing 40% more of these procedures since 2016? Well, maybe because we’re FINALLY starting to talk about it. Can you hear our sigh of relief?

What Happens During the Labiaplasty Procedure?

So now you may know what labiaplasty is, but you might not actually know that a labia reduction procedure is actually really safe and simple. Your surgeon simply trims the excess labial tissue of your labia minora (or inner lips of the vulva) so that they will sit tucked in within your labia majora (the outer lips of your vulva).

Depending on the complexity of your case, this usually takes about 30 minutes tops. And recovery is also really simple and uncomplicated: many women don’t feel enough pain to even take prescribed pain medication.

If you get local anesthesia you can literally drive yourself home after your procedure. If you have general anesthesia you need someone to pick you up and drive you home but that’s due to the anesthesia not the procedure itself.

You’ll need one week of downtime, and then one month abstaining from any major exercise and sex (sorry) but then you’re good to go. Oh and we also use special dissolving sutures, which will just disappear when they’re done doing what they’re supposed to do, so no need to worry about getting stitches removed—a serious bonus.

Labiaplasty at The Plastic Surgery Clinic

Now when we gave you those stats from The American Society of Plastic Surgery about more and more women having labia reduction surgery let’s just say that they are seriously backed up by the fact that at The Plastic Surgery Clinic we perform 150-200 labia reduction procedures per year, making our surgeons some of the most experienced surgeons in this procedure in the entire country.

If you’re considering labia reduction in Toronto or Mississauga, you may want to come check us out first. Not only are Dr. Lista, Dr. Ahmad and Dr. Austin super experienced when it comes to this procedure they’ve also done a lot of research on its safety and outcomes, and have brought it to the fore as a procedure that really empowers women to make informed choices about their bodies.

In a nutshell, they’ve gotten society talking about a procedure that it’s generally hesitant to address.

How Much Does Labia Reduction Surgery Cost?

Unfortunately, OHIP and most other provincial and employee health plans usually won’t cover the cost of labiaplasty even though it’s often not strictly a cosmetic procedure.

At The Plastic Surgery Clinic the cost of labiaplasty starts at $5,500 with a firm quote given to you once you’ve come in for a free consultation and we can assess your needs in person. Because we also offer really manageable financing options, the dream of labiaplasty has become a reality without breaking the bank for so many of our amazing patients.

Dr. Lista, Dr. Ahmad and Dr. Austin are really committed to this surgery and really want to help those women in need of it, and alleviating the financial burden that comes with cosmetic surgery is one of the first steps we take to help you get to where you want to be. That’s why our consultations are always free, and you’re welcome to return for another if you have more questions.

So if you’re considering labia reduction in Toronto come talk to us at The Plastic Surgery Clinic. We love talking about things we’re not supposed to.