|
Frequently Asked Questions About Labiaplasty and Vaginoplasty
HOW CAN LABIAPLASTY CORRECT PROBLEMS
AND ENHANCE MY LIFE?
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that will reduce the size, and/or
reshape the labia minora. The labia minora are the inner labia, or lips
of the vagina, and are situated between the outer labia and the vaginal
opening. In woman of reproductive age, there is considerable variations
in the size of the labia minora. In some instances, women with large labia
minora can experience pain during intercourse, or feel discomfort during
everyday activities, especially when wearing tight-fitting clothing. Other
women may feel unattractive and are embarrassed by their outward appearance.
The purpose of labiaplasty is to improve the external appearance
of the vagina. After the procedure most women have less discomfort during
intercourse, feel more positive about their appearance and show overall
improvement in their self esteem.
HOW CAN REJUVENATION OF THE VAGINA
CORRECT PROBLEMS AND ENHANCE MY LIFE?
After the stress of single or multiple childbirth, vaginal tissues tend
to lose their tone, often resulting in an increase in the width of the
vaginal canal. During sexual intercourse, this added width can result
in less friction, and decreased pleasure for both partners. Even with
regular exercise, including Kegal exercise, vaginal tone may not improve.
Vaginoplasty is a surgical procedure where the excess vaginal
tissue is removed, the size of the vaginal opening reduced and other supportive
tissues in the vagina repaired. The goal of the surgery is to increase
the fiction experienced by sexual partners during intercourse, hence improving
pleasure. Women often feel greater self esteem after the procedure and
improved confidence.
WE CONSTANTLY HEAR THAT LASER
IS THE BEST WAY TO GO FOR VAGINOPLASTY AND LABIAPLASTY. WHATS THE
REAL STORY ABOUT LASERS FOR THESE TYPES OF SURGERIES?
Depending on the application, the use of a laser
scalpel in surgery can have varying degrees of results. Today, many
surgeons try to enhance their marketing to the public by implying that
the laser is the best way to proceed. They say this in their brochures
and web sites. The truth of the matter is that the use of a laser scalpel
during surgery is a common method of cauterizing and making smooth incisions,
resulting in less tissue trauma (shock) and controlling bleeding. Today,
MOST surgeons use lasers in surgical applications but few feel the need
to advertise the fact.
Some surgeons believe that labiaplasty is best performed
using Iris Scissors which will leave a nicely rugated, or ruffled edge—mimicking
the way natural labia appear.
Vaginoplasty on the other hand can be enhanced, somewhat,
with a laser although widely accepted methods of incision are as good.
The real issue is the surgeon's skills. . . how many procedures
he's done.
WHO WILL BE MY SURGEON?
In every case your suegeon will be the surgeon you first meet during your
initial consultation. He will also be the same surgeon who will look after
you and provide all of your post-operative care, including emergency care
if required. If your doctor is unavailable, another surgeon is always
on call 24 hours a day should you require emergency treatment or information.
HOW LONG DOES LABIAPLASTY OR VAGINOPLASTY
TAKE?
It generally depends on the extent of the procedure, but each procedure
usually takes about one to two hours.
IF IVE NOT HAD CHILDREN,
CAN I STILL HAVE A VAGINOPLASTY PROCEDURE?
Generally, YES! Depending on your individual circumstances you may be
a candidate for vaginoplasty. One does not have to have had children to
be a candidate for the vaginoplasty procedure, and it is performed quite
frequently on women without children. If you are planning to have children,
it is recommended you wait until you have completed childbearing to have
the procedure.
IS THERE A PERIOD OF TIME AFTER
THE VAGINOPLASTY OR LABIAPLASTY PROCEDURE WHEN I MUST REFRAIN FROM SEXUAL
ACTIVITY?
As with any type of surgical procedure, there is usually a period of time
needed for the body to heal. Generally, you should refrain from any type
of sexual intercourse (vaginal penetration) for a period of 4-6 weeks.
Your doctor would advise you if there was a change in this waiting period.
IF IM VISITING FROM OUT-OF-TOWN,
HOW LONG SHOULD I REMAIN AFTER SURGERY BEFORE DEPARTING?
With either Labiaplasty or Vaginoplasty, you should be allowed to return
home the day after surgery. Your doctor would advise you if there was
a change in this waiting period. Read more on our What
to Expect page.
WHERE WILL THE OPERATION BE PERFORMED?
All operations are performed at your surgeon's outpatient Surgery Center.
Each center is both state licensed and federally (Medicare) certified
and as such meets the highest standards of care.
WHAT TESTS ARE REQUIRED BEFORE
MY SURGERY?
All patients undergoing surgery will require basic blood
and urine tests as well as a pregnancy test for women. Your doctor will
advise you accordingly during your consultation.
WILL IT HURT?
During the procedure, our anesthesia staff assures that you're comfortable
and will feel no pain. In every instance, you'll be asleep through the
entire procedure. This will be discussed with you in detail during the
initial consultation. After surgery, any pain or discomfort you may experience
will be controlled through medication and will usually subside within
a matter of days.
HOW SOON CAN I GET BACK TO WORK?
It depends greatly on the procedure, but on average most patients are
back to work within 3 to 7 days. If complications arise, additional time
away from work may be required.
HOW LONG WILL IT BE BEFORE I CAN
EXPECT A FINAL RESULT?
This varies with the type of operation being performed. It also depends
on the individual. Some people bruise easily, while others dont.
Generally there will be swelling and some bruising after surgery. Both
will usually disappear over a week or two. The final optimal result can
usually be appreciated a few months after surgery.
WILL THERE BE SCARS?
Yes, but they probably won't be noticeable. Your doctor will make every
effort to keep incisions as minimal as possible and try to hide them in
the natural lines and creases of your skin. The scars will fade over time
and become barely noticeable.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS?
As
with any operation there are certain risks. The most common risks include
bleeding, infection and scarring. Although these events are usually infrequent,
they sometimes can occur. Specific potential complications vary with both
Labiaplasty and Vaginoplasty. These will be discussed with you during
your consultation for your procedure. To put the risk in perspective,
pregnancy is associated with far more risk than any of these procedures.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Less than you think. After years of being perceived as something only
for the rich and famous, cosmetic surgery is now priced for everyone.
Patients from all income brackets are now undergoing surgery.
Please keep in mind not all patients are alike and some will require a
slightly different operation than others. We offer a range of costs in
the sections on Labiaplasty and Vaginoplasty. However, you will receive
a specific price quotation during your consultation visit. Our staff is
always happy to discuss these matters with you in more detail. Read more
on our Costs and Financing page.
CAN I FINANCE IT?
For your convenience, we accept VISA, Master Card, Discover and American
Express. Some surgeons even have financing through approved, reliable
companies. Your surgeon's office can give you all the details, either
before or at your consultation. At the time you decide to book your procedure
a 50% down payment is required. Final payment is due during the final
pre-op visit.
WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THE COST OF
MY OPERATION?
Your operation will include the surgical fees and anesthesiology professional
fees, the outpatient surgery center facility charges, and all of your
post-operative care. Lab tests, x-rays, and other pre and post-operative
tests and medications are not included.
WILL INSURANCE COVER IT?
Usually not. Both Labiaplasty and Vaginoplasty are considered elective
procedures and insurance plans don't cover it. But there are exceptions.
Some functional surgical procedures may be covered by health insurance,
in part or in full, depending upon your health insurance policy and the
procedure you are having performed. It is imperative that you check with
your insurance company BEFORE arranging any procedure.
IF I'M UNHAPPY WITH MY RESULTS,
WILL I BE CHARGED FOR A REVISION?
We will do their best to give you the results you desire. Unfortunately,
no guarantee or warranty can be given. Occasionally, some patients are
not pleased and may require a revision operation to correct an undesirable
result. If this should occur there is usually no charge for our surgeon's
professional services, but anesthesiology fees, surgery center facility
charges, and any other ancillary expenses are the responsibility of the
patient.
Page Update: May 26, 2009
For more information: info@labiaplastysurgeon.com

|