OCALA, FL (352today.com) – For many women, the genital discomfort caused by enlarged or irregularly shaped labia minora is a significant issue affecting their daily lives.

To better understand the issue and the options for women who suffer from it, we asked the experts at Ocala Plastic Surgery & Dermatology.

“A lot of women have – just like everything else, we’re all different – very differently shaped and colored labia minora,” said Dr. Jennel Carreras-Montgomery, MD. “Sometimes they are hypertrophied, which means that they’re larger than they should be, and this can cause a lot of discomfort not only during intercourse but also during regular activities and exercises.”

Dr. Carreras-Montgomery says for active women who, for example like to ride horses or bike, an enlarged labia can cause irritation and even bleeding from chafing.

It’s a sensitive issue that many women may be reluctant to discuss because they may think nothing can be done about it.

“This is a normal variant and a topic that remains taboo. Most women do not know there is a surgical fix for their symptoms. Many just think it’s something they have to live with or are too embarrassed to have it addressed,” said Dr. Carreras-Montgomery.

She addresses the issue through a surgical procedure known as labiaplasty that reduces the size of the labia minora, which is becoming increasingly recognized for both its medical and aesthetic benefits.

Dr. Carreras-Montgomery says it’s hard to know how many women suffer from the condition because the incidence of labial hypertrophy is underreported.

“At our office, I would say we perform about 20 a year,” said Dr. Carreras-Montgomery. “I wish this number was higher because I know there are so many more women we could help.”

“What we’re trying to achieve with a labiaplasty is a labia minora that is flush with the labia majora or maybe just a couple of millimeters further out from the labia majora,” said Dr. Carreras-Montgomery. However, she emphasizes that the surgery must be done carefully to avoid complications such as excessive scarring, which she says can lead to other issues like vaginal dryness, or irritation.

Performed either in the office while the patient is awake or in an operating room under general anesthesia, the labiaplasty procedure takes about 45 minutes to an hour.

Despite the relatively short duration of the surgery, Carreras-Montgomery says the recovery period can be challenging.

“This is a very sensitive area that swells very easily, and you do feel uncomfortable for several weeks,” said Carreras-Montgomery. She says most women are pleased with the results once they recover, allowing them to enjoy activities that were previously painful.

Patients considering labiaplasty should carefully evaluate their reasons for seeking the procedure, consult with a specialist, and thoroughly discuss the risks and benefits.

Recovery from labiaplasty can take several weeks, so planning and support are crucial.

Dr. Carreras-Montgomery offers these expert tips for anyone considering labiaplasty:

  • Understand your needs: Determine whether your motivation is due to physical discomfort or aesthetic reasons.
  • Consult with a specialist: Seek advice from a board-certified plastic surgeon experienced in labiaplasty, like Carreras-Montgomery.
  • Discuss risks and benefits: Be fully informed about what the procedure entails.
  • Consider recovery time: Ensure you have the necessary support during your recovery period.
  • Follow post-operative care instructions: Adhering to your doctor’s instructions is crucial for a smooth recovery. This includes taking prescribed medications, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments.
  • Set realistic expectations: While labiaplasty can significantly improve your quality of life, Carreras-Montgomery says that it’s important to have realistic expectations about the results. Discuss your goals with your surgeon to ensure they are achievable.
  • Check credentials: To reduce the risk of complications and improve your overall experience, verify that your surgeon is board-certified and experienced.
  • Ask about anesthesia options: Discuss whether local anesthesia where you remain awake during the procedure or general anesthesia which puts you to sleep is best for you.
  • Prepare for the procedure: Follow all pre-operative instructions from your surgeon. This may include avoiding certain medications and arranging for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
  • Stay informed: Keep updated on advancements in labiaplasty techniques.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact Ocala Plastic Surgery & Dermatology.