What is Labiaplasty?
Although many shy away from discussing this topic, several women have concerns about the shape and size of their labia, which can make them feel less confident in intimate situations. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Arun Rao wants to help Tucson, AZ women feel more comfortable and attractive with vaginal rejuvenation surgery to improve the size and shape of the labia. The labia (the external lips of the vaginal area) could look oversized or have loose skin caused by genetics, pregnancy, childbirth, or physical trauma. A labiaplasty is a surgery that reduces the size of the labia minora and/or majora for a more normal appearance. This procedure involves precise surgical removal of excess skin so that you can feel comfortable and confident. Schedule a consultation at Rao Plastic & Hand Surgery to learn more about the benefits of a labiaplasty, and find out if you are a candidate for this sought-after treatment.
Labiaplasty Reviews
What are the benefits of a labiaplasty?
An overly large labia may cause discomfort when participating in exercise and other physical activities. It can also become irritated when it rubs against some items of clothing. Many women feel self-conscious about the appearance of their labia and avoid intimate situations as a result. A labiaplasty provides physical relief and improved self-esteem by reducing the size of the labia. Patients choose to work with Rao Plastic Surgery because of our:
- Personalized attention and care
- Private, comfortable setting
- Proven experience and success
IS LABIAPLASTY for you?
A labiaplasty can help many women who are worried about the size or shape of their vaginal area, which could look abnormal due to genetics, childbirth, or trauma. Misshapen vaginal lips can cause pain, discomfort, itching, or irritation during physical activities, like exercise and sex. A labiaplasty can also help if you avoid wearing revealing outfits, including bathing suits, leggings, or yoga pants, due to your lack of confidence with the size of your vaginal lips. While a labiaplasty should not affect pregnancy, Dr. Rao suggests you wait until you are done having children to avoid compromising your results. Every woman's anatomy is unique so Dr. Rao will work with you to personalize a labiaplasty treatment that meets your individual aesthetic goals. Dr. Rao will further explain the procedure during your one-on-one consultation.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING labiaplasty?
Most procedures for the labia are performed at a surgery center. This will require you to plan for a responsible friend or family member to pick you up after your surgery. Dr. Rao will discuss these options and time estimates during your consultation so you can make any necessary arrangements before your procedure. A labiaplasty is generally performed by excising the redundant tissue of the labia minora. From there, the remaining skin is sutured together. Another technique is the wedge procedure that cuts away a pie-shaped piece of tissue and extra folds from the clitoral hood before suturing the tissue closed.
What to Expect after labiaplasty
You will need to take about a week to recover after your labiaplasty to allow swelling and discomfort to go away before returning to work. Dr. Rao recommends applying ice packs or cold compresses as needed to decrease swelling. You should not use tampons or engage in sexual activity for 4 – 6 weeks after your treatment. Patients typically notice visible improvements in about six weeks with their final results emerging closer to six months after surgery. The results of a labiaplasty usually last for a long time, but natural aging, childbirth, and weight fluctuations may alter results over time.
Labiaplasty FAQs
How much does a labiaplasty cost?
Vaginal rejuvenation surgery costs will depend on many factors. During your consultation with Dr. Rao, he will listen to your concerns and goals before creating your personalized treatment plan. As soon as you've made your choices for your vaginal rejuvenation surgery, Dr. Rao can estimate your costs. Rao Plastic & Hand Surgery accepts many payment methods, and we can help you find low-interest financing.
Should I choose a doctor or OB/GYN?
When researching vaginal rejuvenation surgery, you may find that most obstetricians and gynecologists (OB/GYNs) offer labiaplasty. While many OB/GYNs are qualified to perform labia rejuvenation, the procedure is most often considered cosmetic. An OB/GYN will be able to remove excess skin from your labia; however, a board-certified plastic surgeon, like Dr. Rao, will consider the aesthetics as well. This will ensure that any scarring present is minimal and that the final color, symmetry, and contour are natural in both appearance and feel.
Will vaginal rejuvenation surgery cause insensitivity?
As with any surgery, there may be short-term numbness in the vaginal area after your procedure is completed. This is should disappear as the vaginal tissue and skin heal. In regard to sexual sensitivity, it is important to understand that labia rejuvenation corrects the vaginal lips and not the clitoris. A skilled plastic surgeon like Dr. Rao, who has many years of experience performing labiaplasties, will work around the clitoris so that a loss of sensitivity does not occur.
What is the recovery process like after a labiaplasty?
Before your surgery, Dr. Rao or a member of his team will let you know what to expect after your labiaplasty and offer advice about keeping yourself comfortable during your recovery. You will have some bruising and swelling in your vaginal area along with some discomfort immediately afterward. You should plan to rest for at least 5 – 7 days before returning to light activities. Dr. Rao will assess your progress during your follow-up appointments and let you know when you are able to resume sexual activity and exercise.
Are there nonsurgical vaginal rejuvenation treatments?
There are nonsurgical vaginal rejuvenation treatments that can improve small amounts of looseness in your vaginal area. However, vaginal rejuvenation surgery is best for significant improvements to tighten and reshape your labia. During your consultation with Dr. Rao, he can review your options and make recommendations to meet your unique needs and goals.

Feel Comfortable and Confident
Not every vagina looks exactly alike, and a lot of elements can play into the appearance of your outer labia. If the appearance of your vaginal lips negatively affects your confidence and prevents you from living life to the fullest, it might be time to learn about labiaplasty and the benefits this surgery can provide. Talk to board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Arun Rao about your needs and goals so he can create your unique treatment plan. Schedule a consultation at Rao Plastic & Hand Surgery in Tucson, AZ to hear more about rejuvenation with a labiaplasty.