By R.H.

“Labiaplasty is a procedure I had been thinking of undergoing for some time before I finally took the plunge last summer. 

First off, I’m an active woman in her early 40s. I love getting out in the fresh air, hiking, and cycling to stay healthy. As an avid swimmer and beach-goer, I am not shy of the water either! However, I noticed things didn’t seem as comfortable down there after the difficult birth of my second child. 

We all know just how much of a strain pregnancy puts on our bodies. But this was a feeling that my anatomy had really changed, which was super disconcerting – not to mention incredibly embarrassing! For a while there I just, sort of, lived with it. But after years of annoyance and stress I decided to take action to help myself.”

Michael J. Yoo, MD provides labiaplasty procedures to help women overcome cosmetic and functional issues relating to elongated labia minora. He understands that every woman’s needs and desires are unique when it comes to intimate aesthetics. Dr. Yoo, a double board-certified plastic surgeon, specializes in labiaplasty surgery and offers a comprehensive range of procedures to meet your specific goals.

Discover the benefits of labiaplasty in Newport Beach and Beverly Hills. To contact our scheduling team, call (949) 861-3340 or fill out a quick form to get started.

Before & After Photos

labiaplasty-before-after
 

Getting the Treatment I Needed

“I was always aware that my labia minora were slightly more pronounced. It was what it was, I thought. I got pregnant in my early 30s and had my first child with no real issues. Things really didn’t change too much there. But as I grew older and had my second-born, it really felt as though another pregnancy altered my labia’s shape and size. I noticed I was even a little asymmetrical when I compared sides! I’m pretty well-versed with anatomy and I knew labia came in all different shapes and sizes. But there were distinct changes that happened after that second birth, and I just couldn’t ignore them anymore. 

No matter how comfortable a brand new pair of underwear purported to be, I was still uncomfortable. No matter how freeing my athletic wear was, I consistently felt chafed and sore. No matter how well-fitting the bikini I had on, I felt self-conscious. You get the idea. Sometimes I would get upset, but I kept to myself because of the social taboo. I didn’t even discuss it much with my husband which I think affected my sexual confidence too.

I was so uncomfortable on the daily and I knew I had to do something about it. So, I plucked up the courage to speak to my best friend about it. We got to talking over a lively brunch and I brought up my embarrassing problem. To my extreme relief, she was totally accepting and gave me some advice I now cherish. She recommended Dr. Yoo after a friend of a friend had mentioned his fantastic work. We just sat there and she relayed to me what her friend had told her about the excellent treatment she had received and, well, the rest is history!”

How Did You Approach Getting a Labiaplasty?

“Once I had confided in my friend, I felt a huge relief that I finally shared what had been bugging me – physically and mentally – for so long! The burden of the secret was gone. It was like a heavy weight lifted from my shoulders, so to speak. 

Having her to talk to about my anatomical difference was very reassuring. We discussed everything, from how conspicuous I felt wearing a swimsuit to my frustrating and uncomfortable chaffing during hikes. No topic was off limits that day! 

I know there’s more of a stigma when it comes to talking about that kind of intimate information, but I thought; if I don’t tell someone, I’ll have to continue dealing with this for the rest of my life! And then I thought to myself – why should I have to live in discomfort and shame?

Anyway, for a long time I was self-conscious about my labia so I took it upon myself to change things for the better. And now I’m so thankful. It took courage for me to say something in the end, but I’m so glad I did. Little did I know that that one conversation with my friend would literally change everything!”

Benefits of a Labiaplasty

During a labiaplasty, excess labial tissue is carefully removed to create a more balanced and symmetrical appearance. By reshaping and contouring these structures, Dr. Yoo enhances the overall appearance of the vaginal area and improves self-confidence.

There are many benefits to a labiaplasty procedure, including the following:

  • Improved Aesthetics: Labiaplasty can enhance the appearance of the labia, resulting in a more symmetrical and proportionate genital area. This can lead to increased self-confidence and improved body image.
  • Enhanced Comfort: Enlarged or asymmetrical labia can cause discomfort or irritation during daily activities. Labiaplasty can alleviate these issues, providing women with enhanced physical comfort and relief.
  • Increased Clothing Options: With a more proportionate and symmetrical labial contour, women may feel more comfortable wearing certain types of clothing, such as swimwear or tight-fitting outfits. Labiaplasty can expand clothing options and allow women to embrace their personal style without any self-consciousness.
  • Improved Physical Activities: Women who have experienced discomfort during physical activities, such as cycling or horseback riding, may find relief after undergoing labiaplasty. This can enable them to engage in their favorite activities without any hindrance or discomfort.
  • Relief from Pain or Discomfort During Intercourse: In some cases, labiaplasty can address issues like pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse. By correcting any anatomical factors that may be causing discomfort, women can experience a more enjoyable and fulfilling sexual experience.

How Popular is Labiaplasty?

In the United States, almost 19,000 labiaplasty procedures took place in 2021 – a 36% increase from 2020. (1)  And by opting for labiaplasty, women are taking control of their own bodies and making choices that align with their personal preferences. This can foster a sense of empowerment and ownership over their own sexuality and overall well-being.

“What would I say to people who are thinking of undergoing a labiaplasty? My advice to women out there thinking of getting a labiaplasty is: Go for it! If you feel like things aren’t the way you want in your most intimate area, then I thoroughly recommend the surgery.”

Personal Consultation

A personal consultation at our state-of-the-art facility in Newport Beach or Beverly Hills is the first step towards determining if a labiaplasty is the right choice for you. Dr. Michael Yoo, a highly skilled and experienced plastic surgeon, understands the sensitive nature of this procedure and will provide a comfortable and confidential environment for your consultation.

During your consultation, Dr. Yoo will take the time to understand your unique concerns and goals. He will conduct a thorough evaluation of your medical history and examine the structure and appearance of your labia. This comprehensive assessment will allow him to determine if you are a suitable candidate for a labiaplasty.

Labiaplasty Methods

Labiaplasty is typically performed under local anesthesia or with the aid of sedation, ensuring the patient’s comfort throughout the process. Incisions are made with precision along the natural contours of the labia, minimizing visible scarring. There are various surgical techniques available for labiaplasty, including the wedge technique and the trim technique. The choice of technique depends on the individual’s specific concerns and desired outcome.

Trim Technique

During a trim technique labiaplasty, Dr. Yoo carefully trims away excess tissue from the labia minora, achieving a more proportionate and aesthetically pleasing outcome. The exact amount of tissue to be removed will be determined through a thorough consultation, as it is important to maintain both form and function.

Wedge Technique

During a wedge technique labiaplasty, excess tissue is carefully removed from the labia minora to create a more symmetrical and proportionate appearance. The surgical technique involves making precise incisions in the shape of a wedge, allowing for the removal of specific areas of excess tissue while preserving the natural contour and sensitivity of the labia.

Labiaplasty has over 90% satisfaction rates. (2) Dr. Yoo ensures his patients receive the highest quality care throughout their surgical experience.

What was Your Labiaplasty Recovery Like?

“I won’t lie, during the healing process, my labia were pretty swollen and bruised. Dr. Yoo informed me that what I was experiencing was completely normal and would gradually subside over time. I had to watch out with what I did for a few weeks, naturally. Dr. Yoo instructed me to avoid intercourse, tampon use, and strenuous exercise, until he gave me the all-clear.

I also had to keep the area as clean and dry as I could. There was a time where I wore really loose and breathable cotton underwear, which felt as though it helped speed up the healing process a lot. 

All I can say now is that little bit of discomfort was so worth it in the long-run. And if you’re looking to improve your body and your self-confidence with a labiaplasty, Dr. Yoo is the man for the job!”

Cost of a Labiaplasty in Newport Beach

During your consultation, Dr. Yoo will outline the specific costs associated with your labiaplasty. This includes surgical fees, anesthesia costs, facility fees, and any necessary post-operative care. Our team will ensure that you have a clear understanding of how these costs are allocated, providing transparency and peace of mind.

At Michael Yoo MD, we believe in providing exceptional care at competitive prices. Call (949) 861-3340 or send us a message online to schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Yoo and learn more about the cost of labiaplasty in Newport Beach or Beverly Hills.

If you are interested in finding out more about labiaplasty, and other procedures offered by Dr. Yoo, please read our blog.

References

  1. Sharp G, Draganidis A, Hamori CA, Oates J, Anne Nileshni Fernando. Beyond Motivations: A Qualitative Pilot Exploration of Women’s Experiences Prior to Labiaplasty. Aesthetic Surgery Journal. 2023;43(9):994-1001. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjad105 
  2. Willis RN, Wong CS, Pai A, Patel BC. Labiaplasty Minora Reduction. PubMed. Published 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK448086/