For women, both the functionality and aesthetic appearance of the vagina are of great importance. The tissues that make up the vaginal structure work in harmony to fulfil important functions such as birth and sexual intercourse. Vaginal lips are one of the most critical parts that ensure the protection of this structure.
Vaginal lips are divided into two main groups:
- Labia majora (outer labia): They are fuller lips that protect the vulva against external factors.
- Labia minor (inner labia): They are the inner lips with a sensitive structure surrounding the clitoris and vaginal opening.
Over time, sagging, asymmetry or enlargement of the vaginal lips may occur due to aging, birth, hormonal changes and genetic factors. This can lead to both aesthetic concerns and sexual, hygienic and physical discomfort. Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes the vaginal lips to provide a more aesthetic, symmetrical and healthy appearance.
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What is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is an aesthetic surgical procedure performed to remove sagging, asymmetry and excess tissue in the vaginal lips. Sagging and irregularities, especially in the labia minora (labia minora), can cause many women to experience aesthetic and physical discomfort.
With labiaplasty, the inner and outer lips gain a more symmetrical and balanced form. Discomfort and irritation due to excessive length of the vaginal lips are eliminated. A more aesthetic vulva appearance is achieved, which increases women's self-confidence.
This operation has become one of the most preferred genital aesthetic applications in recent years.
Why is Labiaplasty Performed?
Labiaplasty is not only an aesthetic operation. It is also an intervention that increases physical and hygienic comfort. Sagging and irregularities in the vaginal lips can cause problems such as discomfort in daily life and pain during sexual intercourse in some women.
- Aesthetic Concerns: Asymmetrical or larger than normal vaginal lips can make women feel uncomfortable.
- Physical Discomfort: Pendulous lips can cause irritation, especially when doing sports, wearing tight clothes or sitting.
- Sexual Discomfort: Enlarged and sagging lips can cause pain or numbness during sexual intercourse.
- Hygiene Problems: Long labia can block the vaginal entrance, which can lead to recurrent infections.
Labiaplasty stands out as an operation that makes women feel better both physically and psychologically.
Why Do Vaginal Lips Sag?
Sagging of the vaginal lips can be a natural process or it can be accelerated by some external factors.
- Some women may have congenitally larger or asymmetrical vaginal lips.
- During normal labour, the vaginal tissues are subjected to great pressure and the lips may lose their elasticity.
- Over time, vaginal tissues may lose their elasticity and sag.
- Hormonal changes such as pregnancy, postpartum and menopause can cause the connective tissues in the vaginal area to loosen.
- Continuous pulling or epilation with incorrect methods can cause damage to vaginal tissues.
- Activities such as excessive sports, cycling or horse riding can cause irritation and sagging of the vaginal lips over time.
Sagging and enlarged labia can block the vaginal entrance, disrupting air flow and moisture balance. This can lead to recurrent fungal and bacterial infections. At the same time, pain may be felt due to friction and irritation.
Women who encounter such situations can lead a comfortable life with labiaplasty surgery.
Who is Labiaplasty Suitable for?
Who is Labiaplasty Suitable for?
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that can be applied for women who have reached the age of 18 and have sagging, asymmetry or aesthetic concerns in their vaginal lips. The procedure is performed only in the outer region of the vagina, that is, around the vulva.
Individuals of legal age can safely undergo labiaplasty surgery. It is not recommended for individuals under 18 years of age, because vaginal tissues continue to develop throughout puberty.
How is Labiaplasty Surgery Performed?
Labiaplasty can be performed under local or general anaesthesia, depending on the patient's preference and the doctor's recommendation. Both types of anaesthesia eliminate pain and discomfort during the operation.
The following steps are performed during labiaplasty surgery:
- The vaginal lips are reshaped using special surgical incision and suturing techniques.
- Excess skin tissue is removed, sagging is eliminated and the labia minora are symmetrised.
- Tissue organisation can be performed with laser technology, making the procedure more comfortable.
This operation, which takes an average of 30-45 minutes, may vary depending on the anatomical structure and demands of the person. Additional applications such as hudoplasty (clitoral aesthetics) or colour lightening procedures can also be performed in the same session.
Before and After Labiaplasty
Before labiaplasty surgery, the vaginal structure of the patient is examined in detail by the doctor. The most appropriate planning is made in line with the patient's expectations and aesthetic goals.
- During the examination, the structure of the labia and the degree of sagging are evaluated.
- The surgery plan is created taking into account the patient's demands.
- If deemed necessary, hudoplasty or genital area discolouration procedures can also be included in the plan.
After labiaplasty, the healing process is usually fast and the patient can return to daily activities within a few days. Since the stitches are sutured with self-melting threads, there is no need for stitch removal. When the care instructions recommended by the doctor are followed, the full recovery process is completed within 4-6 weeks.
Recovery Process After Labiaplasty
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that has a more comfortable recovery process compared to other genital aesthetic operations. Patients are usually kept under observation in the clinic for a few hours after the operation and the effect of the anaesthesia is expected to wear off.
They are discharged on the same day and can continue to rest at home. Mild pain and tenderness may be observed for the first few days, but this can be controlled with painkillers. The full recovery process is usually completed within 30-45 days.
Patients can return to their daily lives after a short rest period after the operation. However, physical activities and sexual intercourse should be avoided for the period recommended by the doctor for the stitches to heal completely and the vaginal tissue to recover completely.
Due to its fast healing process and minimal risks, labiaplasty has become one of the most preferred genital aesthetic operations.
Things to Consider After Labiaplasty
In order to have a successful recovery process after labiaplasty, some important rules should be observed:
- Pay Attention to Hygiene Rules: The vaginal area should be kept clean and dry to minimise the risk of infection.
- Swelling and Redness is Normal: Mild swelling and redness may be seen in the vaginal area after the operation, this will decrease within a few days. Cold compress can be applied with the doctor's recommendation.
- Avoid Entering Public Waters: Areas such as pools, saunas, baths and the sea should not be entered for at least 1 month, as such environments can increase the risk of infection.
- Avoid Sexual Intercourse: Sexual intercourse should be interrupted for the period recommended by the doctor (usually 4-6 weeks).
- Avoid Heavy Exercise and Strenuous Movements: During the first few weeks, it is not recommended to lift heavy weights, do intense sports, or engage in activities that require excessive effort.
Your doctor will give you detailed information about the issues that you should pay attention to individually for your recovery to proceed smoothly.
Ankara Labioplasty Prices
Labiaplasty prices may vary depending on the scope of the operation, the techniques used and the health centre where it is performed. You can contact Op. Dr Yeksin Helvacıoğlu Karataş to get detailed information about labioplasty prices in Ankara and to make an appointment.
