In the last several years, interest in the repair and rejuvenation of the labia minora and majora (labiaplasty surgery) has increased among patients, surgeons, mass media and social media. Dr. Jeffrey Donaldson and Dr. Michelle Sieffert offer a minimally-invasive technique with safe and lasting results. Other procedures of interest may include diVa and diVaTyte for total laser vaginal therapy.
Labiaplasty is a plastic surgery procedure that improves the function and appearance of the female genitalia, usually including the labia minora (inner lips) and occasionally the labia majora (outer lips). Most commonly, excess skin is removed and elongated labia are “tucked” in order to create an aesthetically pleasing result that is smooth without hanging tissue or protuberance.
Sometimes, labiaplasty is referred to as “vaginal rejuvenation,” or vaginoplasty. While labiaplasty can occasionally produce a narrower, or tighter opening to the vagina, the vaginal diameter and anatomy itself are not altered during surgery.
Most patients prefer to have labiaplasty performed under local anesthesia, in order to avoid the cost, risk and recovery from general anesthesia; however, Dr. Donaldson offers both methods to accommodate all preferences. Once the patient is completely comfortable and completely numb – no sensation at all in the genital area — excess tissue is meticulously removed from the labia minora.
Labiaplasty is a minimally-invasive outpatient procedure, meaning patients can return home on the same day. Dr. Donaldson or Dr. Sieffert and staff will address any questions or concerns again before you leave, and detailed aftercare instructions will be reiterated.
Dr. Donaldson champions a modified V-wedge technique that preserves clitoral integrity and sensation, maintains natural pigmentation, prevents fenestration, creates a smooth and attractive contour with virtually no visible scar, and remains highly durable without recurrence. Tiny blood vessels are cauterized beneath the surface to prevent bruising, and clear dissolvable sutures are placed under surgical magnification to ensure proper alignment. Once finished, Dr. Donaldson applies antibiotic ointment, calming pads and a cold compress. The procedure takes approximately 90 minutes.
Genetics, childbirth and age can all contribute to labial hypertrophy, or enlargement and stretching of the labia. This may cause functional and/or cosmetic concerns: pain during exercise, cycling, horseback riding or prolonged sitting, discomfort during intercourse, and embarrassment in bathing suits or during intimacy. These problems may be corrected through labiaplasty, which helps patients reclaim their activities, sexuality and self-esteem.
If you dislike your labial appearance or have discomfort because of loose, hanging tissue, you may be a candidate for labiaplasty. In addition to the cosmetic enhancement, labiaplasty can alleviate the symptoms caused by labial hypertrophy, or elongation/enlargement of the labia.
If you avoid sitting for long periods of time, horseback riding, bicycles/motorcycles, exercise, or sexual activity due to discomfort associated with labial enlargement, contact Donaldson Plastic Surgery to schedule your consultation. Beyond the physical benefits of labiaplasty, Columbus, Ohio patients describe feeling less self-conscious and embarrassed, and more sexy and confident afterward.
The labia minora and majora can be shortened and reshaped. However, there are certain limitations and it is important to have realistic expectations. Patients should be healthy — physically and emotionally — before the operation, as it is purely elective and does not treat depression, anxiety, body image or sexual disorders. Discuss your unique circumstances with Dr. Donaldson or Dr. Sieffert during your consultation so he may help you make the right choice. Our team treats a number of patients for labial hypertrophy. They understand that discretion is of the utmost importance, and they will always treat you with compassion and understanding.
It is normal to experience mild pain, burning, bruising and swelling around the surgery site in the first day or two after surgery. Patients are encouraged to continue applying ointment and cold compresses, take oral pain medications and consider specific homeopathic remedies. Physical activity should be limited initially to avoid friction and swelling, and loose clothing may be most comfortable. Most patients return to work after a few days, but should refrain from exercise and other strenuous activity for a full two to three weeks. Sex, horseback riding, bicycles and other forms of direct pressure should be avoided for approximately 4-6 weeks. Lubricants, padding and extra caution are recommended until healing is proven, and the appearance and sensation have normalized.
Dr. Donaldson and Dr. Sieffert recommend that you educate yourself on the procedure and prepare questions in advance in order to maximize the value of your consultation. Informed patients are often more satisfied with their results and more comfortable throughout the procedure because there are no surprises! During your consultation with Dr. Donaldson or Dr. Sieffert, they will address your personal concerns and questions concerning the procedure and subsequent recovery.
Each patient has unique anatomy, goals and expectations that consequently determine each unique operation. Your consultation with Dr. Donaldson or Dr. Sieffert is crucial in order to communicate these circumstances and to arrive at a mutual understanding of your specific situation. After carefully considering your medical history, physical exam, and aesthetic goals, Dr. Donaldson or Dr. Sieffert will help you create a personalized procedure plan. They will explain the surgical steps in detail, outline recovery phases, and suggest tips for taking care of the surgery site to ensure proper healing.
Dr. Donaldson or Dr. Sieffert will help decide whether any other medical referrals are necessary and whether to avoid certain medications. Patients should stop smoking for at least two weeks before and two weeks after surgery. Smoking inhibits the body’s ability to heal, prolongs recovery time, and might affect the end result.
When labial hypertrophy is caused or worsened by childbirth, labiaplasty is often just one procedure amidst a more comprehensive surgical plan called Mommy Makeover. This refers to a combination of operations that counteract the physical changes from pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding. Typical components of a mommy makeover include breast augmentation, breast lift or breast reduction, tummy tuck, liposuction, and labiaplasty.
Mommy makeovers help women regain control of their bodies after having children. Because this process affects each patient differently, the surgical approach is entirely customizable. Many patients find that labiaplasty is a crucial restorative component of their plan.
According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery‘s latest report, there were 12,756 labiaplasties performed in 2018. This marks a 53% increase compared to 2013, making it one of the fastest-growing cosmetic surgical procedures in the country. Despite its popularity, there is much misinformation and misguided opinion on this relatively simple and extremely effective procedure.
When pursuing a cosmetic procedure, you are in the safest hands with a plastic surgeon who is board certified or is board eligible by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Choosing a qualified labiaplasty surgeon will help you achieve your desired results and decrease your risk of complications. Dr. Jeffrey Donaldson, MD is a diplomat of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, as well as an Active Member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr. Michelle Sieffert, MD is board eligible and a Candidate Member of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and a Candidate Member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Donaldson Plastic Surgery was one of the first plastic surgery practices in the area to offer the labiaplasty procedure, and it has become one of the practice’s defining specialties. Hundreds of women in Columbus credit Dr. Donaldson and Dr. Sieffert for this life-changing procedure.
Dr. Donaldson and Dr. Sieffert have contributed to numerous meetings and publications on a wide range of plastic surgery topics, offers cutting edge techniques and constantly seeks procedural improvements. Read more about Dr. Donaldson’s publications and Dr. Sieffert’s publications.
Our surgeons’ greatest professional attribute are their focus on patient care and satisfaction. Dr. Donaldson and Dr. Sieffert are perfectionists who cater to savvy, sophisticated patients who want to look and feel their best. They enjoy helping each patient feel more comfortable in their own skin. As such, their work has resulted in thousands of satisfied patients.
Assisting Dr. Donaldson and Dr. Sieffert is Bobbie Perry, who has been distinguished as one of the 50 most influential graduates of Columbus State Community College, upholding this same commitment to excellence and patient satisfaction. Bobbie assists patients as well as our surgeons throughout the entire labiaplasty process. Her rapport with patients is outstanding, and she has been recognized for both her compassionate bedside manner and her clinical skills.
You no longer have to adjust your lifestyle or limit your physical activities due to labial hypertrophy. Discomfort and embarrassment do not have to persist. To pursue labiaplasty, please schedule a personal consultation with Donaldson Plastic Surgery.
