Labiaplasty in Albuquerque, NM

While it isn't often discussed openly, many women worry about the size and shape of their vaginal lips, which can cause them to have less confidence. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Miguel Gallegos can help Albuquerque, NM women feel more attractive and comfortable in their own bodies with surgical vaginal rejuvenation to correct the shape and size of their labia. The labia, which are the external lips of the vaginal area, can look larger or have hanging skin caused by natural aging, childbirth, pregnancy, or an injury. A labiaplasty surgically decreases the size of the labia majora and/or minora to create an improved look. This may minimize irritation and discomfort while increasing sexual pleasure and confidence. Come in for a consult at Hermosa Plastic Surgery in Albuquerque, NM to hear more about labiaplasty and see if you may be a candidate.

For our Alburquerque, NM patients who are curious about labiaplasties, we suggest considering the following benefits you could expect from your procedure:

• Increased sexual confidence and satisfaction
• Reduced irritation in sensitive surrounding areas
• Boosted overall confidence in your appearance
• Restoration of desired shape and symmetry of your vaginal tissues 

Surgery for the labia at Hermosa Plastic Surgery can be beneficial for Albuquerque, NM women who are concerned about the size and shape of their vagina lips, which can be enlarged because of childbirth, genetics, or a physical trauma. Abnormal vaginal lips may cause discomfort, pain, irritation, or itching when engaging in activities, like sex and exercise. Surgical vaginal rejuvenation can also be beneficial if you avoid wearing tight clothes (such as leggings, yoga pants, or bathing suits) because of the appearance of your vaginal area. While labia surgery shouldn't impact your ability to get pregnant, Dr. Gallegos advises you wait until you are done childbearing to prevent your results from being reversed.

Many vaginal rejuvenation treatments can be completed in our procedure room with a local anesthetic so you will be able to drive yourself to and from our office. If your treatment plan is more complex, you may need to be put under general anesthesia at a nearby surgical facility, which will require you to have a responsible person to drive you home following your procedure. Dr. Gallegos can map out your treatment plan and answer any questions you may have during your consultation. A labiaplasty is typically performed with the trim technique to remove extra tissue, then the remaining skin is stitched so that it is taut. Also available is the wedge technique to remove a triangular area of skin and excess folds from the clitoris before stitching the skin closed.

You should take around one week to heal following your labiaplasty to allow discomfort and swelling to fade away before returning to normal activities. Dr. Gallegos suggests applying a cold compress or ice pack if needed to minimize inflammation. You also should not participate in sexual activity or use tampons for at least 4 – 6 weeks following your procedure. Patients generally notice visible results in around six weeks and final results about six months following the procedure. The improvements of vaginal rejuvenation are usually long-lasting; however, childbirth, natural aging, and weight fluctuations can impact your results over time.

How much does a labiaplasty cost?
Your labiaplasty cost will depend on several factors. In your initial consultation with Dr. Gallegos, he will assess your needs and wants before developing your unique surgical plan. When you have finalized your labiaplasty options, Dr. Gallegos can estimate your costs. Hermosa Plastic Surgery accepts several payments, and we can additionally give you information regarding low-interest financing.

Should I choose a plastic surgeon or OB/GYN?
As you research surgical vaginal rejuvenation, you will discover that many OB/GYNs (obstetricians and gynecologists) perform labiaplasty. Although most OB/GYNs can perform a labiaplasty, they may not be your best choice. An OB/GYN can remove loose skin from your vaginal lips, but a plastic surgeon, like Dr. Gallegos, has the knowledge to hone in on other aspects as well. He will ensure minimal scarring and that your final contour, color, and symmetry are natural looking.

Will vaginal rejuvenation surgery cause insensitivity?
Like with most surgeries, you may have decreased sensitivity in the treated area for a while. This is usually temporary as your skin and tissue take time to recover. For those concerned about sexual sensitivity, it's important to realize that a labiaplasty, which shapes the vaginal lips, will not affect the nerves of the clitoris. A skilled plastic surgeon, like Dr. Gallegos with years of training and experience in cosmetic vaginal surgery, will avoid the clitoris to prevent desensitizing the area.

What is the recovery process like after a labiaplasty?
Prior to your procedure, Dr. Gallegos or someone on his team will discuss what you can expect following your labiaplasty, as well as offer you suggestions to speed your recovery along. You can expect some swelling and bruising in the treated areas in addition to a certain amount of discomfort right after your procedure. You must stay home for at least a week before resuming nonstrenuous activities. Dr. Gallegos will evaluate your recovery during your check-up appointments and tell you when you can resume exercise and sexual activity.

Are there nonsurgical vaginal rejuvenation treatments?
Nonsurgical vaginal rejuvenation treatments are available at our office as well, and these treatments can improve mild vaginal laxity. However, a labiaplasty is better for dramatic improvements to reshape and tighten your labia. During your initial consultation with Dr. Gallegos, he will explain your surgical and nonsurgical treatment options and give you suggestions as to what will best fit your goals.

Every vagina is not identical and many variables can affect the appearance of the outer labia. If you do not feel confident or comfortable because of the shape and size of your labia, find out more information about vaginal rejuvenation surgery. Talk to board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Miguel Gallegos about your concerns and needs so he can develop your custom labiaplasty treatment plan. Schedule an appointment at Hermosa Plastic Surgery in Albuquerque, NM to hear more about vaginal rejuvenation with a labiaplasty.