Labiaplasty Techniques
Labia Minora Reduction
Labiaplasty patients may benefit from one of several different techniques used to ultimately restore the structure and function of the external genitalia. One method is to trim the excess skin from the labia minora while another method involves the removal of a triangular shape of tissue and the subsequent suturing of the remaining edges together, for example.
Amputation Technique
A common technique still in use today is the excision of skin in the labia minora that is deemed excessive. The procedure has a few drawbacks, including the fact that it can result in an unnatural appearance along the cut edge as well as the destruction of nerve endings.
The Wedge Method
The wedge method of excising excess tissue from the labia minora is superior to some of the other methods of labia minora reduction because this procedure leaves a natural looking edge to the labia. It has the potential to cause nerve damage, however.
De-epithelialization of Tissue
This technique involves the removal of tissue with either a scalpel or a laser on the middle or outer sides of the labia minora. The procedure preserves the free edge of the labia minora while also helping to keep the nerve endings intact as well as the erectile function of the labia in working order. De-epithelialization of tissue can be performed using lasers or a scalpel.
Labia Majora Reduction Techniques
Some experts have compared labia majora reduction to a facelift because often, aesthetic issues related to the labia majora results from a normal aging process that ultimately involves the skin and underlying supportive structures. Aesthetic issues with the labia majora often result from:
- A loss of subcutaneous fat
- The degradation of collagen
- Redistribution of fat due to hormonal changes
Direct Excision
Using an elliptical incision, plastic surgeons can remove excess skin in the labia majora to achieve a more youthful appearance. This procedure can be combined with a labiaplasty, though recuperation may be prolonged if they are done at the same time. Visibility of scars can be an issue with this procedure, but patients should discuss the matter with their doctor.
Radiofrequency Heat
Using Thermage, some doctors are able to shrink the excess skin of the labia majora. Some doctors combine this procedure with the use of dermal fillers to produce an even more appealing appearance.
Replacing Lost Subcutaneous Volume
Doctors may use a number of different techniques to replace lost volume in the labia majora. Techniques include the use of:
- dermal fillers
- fat grafting
- collagen stimulation
Clitoral Hood Reduction
Clitoral hood reduction is performed to removed excess or thickened skin covering the clitoris. When skin covers the clitoris, some women may experience a decrease in sensitivity during sexual intercourse or even feel like they have a penis due to the excessive tissue. The clitoral hood reduction surgery is able to both reduce the size of the clitoral hood as well as expose the clitoris to improve a woman’s sexual functioning while simultaneously improving the aesethic appeal of the vulvia. This procedure is often performed in tandem with a labiaplasty or vaginoplasty procedure.
There are several techniques used for clitoral hood reduction:
- Bilateral cutting of the tissues covering the clitoris
- Excising redundant folds to better expose the clitoris
Doctors tailor the procedure based on the presenting issues. Women vary considerably in terms of the amount of skin surrounding the clitoris. However patients tend to be very satisfied with techniques used for clitoral hood reduction. There is a low-incidence of complications related to the procedure.
