In the age of cosmetic surgery, which is improving and becoming increasingly accessible, if you’re unhappy with any part of your face or body, you can change it. This means that if you are dissatisfied with your breasts, you could get a breast augmentation, and if you’re feeling uncomfortable with your midriff, you might consider getting liposuction.
With cosmetic surgery continuing to grow in popularity, one surgery that is becoming more and more common is labiaplasty.
At New Birkdale Clinic, we proudly offer labiaplasty. This guide will give you the rundown on everything you need to know about the procedure, from surgery time to cost.
What is a Labiaplasty?
A labiaplasty is a cosmetic procedure that aims to reduce the size or reshape the labia minora. Every labia is different, and it isn’t uncommon for women to be dissatisfied with its aesthetic appearance, but that is not the only reason someone would choose to undergo the procedure.
It is common for women with larger labia to experience discomfort, making it challenging to wear tighter items of clothing or engage in sexual activity.
If you can relate to that feeling, or you simply don’t like the appearance of your labia, a labiaplasty procedure is something that you should consider.
How Long Does a Labiaplasty Procedure Take?
Labiaplasty is a relatively quick procedure, taking between 1 and 2 hours. The time depends on several factors, including the extent and complexity of the procedure and the technique used to complete it.
If you want to ensure that your labiaplasty is done well, we suggest working with expert surgeons with experience in the procedure.
If everything goes well after the procedure, you should be able to go home on the same day, so you only need to set aside a day for the surgery.
Is a Labiaplasty Painful?
Like any surgery, you will experience discomfort and pain during labiaplasty recovery. Some swelling may further intensify the discomfort, but this is easy to manage with over-the-counter pain medication and should only last a couple of weeks.
How Long Does a Labiaplasty Take to Heal?
Your labiaplasty should heal within about 6 weeks. Of course, factors such as your body’s natural healing ability and the extent of the procedure may impact this.
The healing process tends to happen in stages, with pain and discomfort subsiding within 2 weeks of the procedure. You should be able to return to work within a few days after your procedure, but it is important to avoid strenuous activity.
What Qualifies You For a Labiaplasty?
If your labia are severely disrupting your life, be that through discomfort or through causing difficulties with hygiene, you may be eligible for a labiaplasty through the NHS. Still, it can be challenging to get the surgery unless you are severely affected.
If you go private and pay for your own, there are no criteria you have to fit into, and you do not have to justify your reasons for undergoing the procedure to your surgeon. However, you must be at least 18 before having a labiaplasty.
How Much Does a Labiaplasty Cost?
The cost of a labiaplasty varies depending on the clinic; it can cost anywhere from £2,000 to £4,000. Many factors can influence this price, from the procedure’s complexity to the surgeon’s experience performing it.
At New Birkdale Clinic, we list the price of all of our body surgery procedures here so that our clients always know exactly how much their surgery will cost.
What is the Best Age to Get a Labiaplasty?
The best age to get a labiaplasty is when a woman has reached full physical development, which means that you should not get a labiaplasty under the age of 18.
Undergoing a labiaplasty is an emotional decision and should not be made unless you are entirely sure that it is the right choice for your wants and needs. Before your surgery, your surgeon will often discuss your reasoning. If you decide that your reasons behind getting the surgery are not right, you are under no obligation to proceed with the surgery.
How Long to Wait Before Sexual Activity After a Labiaplasty
After your labiaplasty, you should try to avoid sexual activity for at least 6 weeks after your procedure. This will give your body the time it needs to recover and will ensure that the results of your surgery are not disrupted and you achieve the appearance you have aimed for.
How to Help With Labiaplasty Recovery
With any procedure, there are ways that you can support the healing process and encourage faster recovery, and this includes:
Hygiene
One of your main priorities after your procedure should be hygiene. It is important that you keep the area clean and cleanse it with mild soap and water, ensuring that it is patted dry after you have cleaned it.
Rest
The best way to ensure your body is healing is to give it the time it needs to rest. Your body can’t heal if it’s exhausted, so it’s recommended that you have some downtime and allow it to do what it does best.
We always advise our clients to take time off from their jobs after their procedures so that they can relax and let their bodies heal.
Loose Clothing
Irritation can disrupt the surgical area’s healing process, so you should wear loose-fitting clothing. While you heal, you should also opt for breathable, cotton underwear to help with recovery.
Friction is your enemy while healing, so try to avoid it at all costs.
Hydration
Hydration is essential for healing after surgery. It supports your body’s function and repairs the tissue. Water helps transport nutrients to the surgical site and aids in the overall healing process.
Drink plenty of water while healing; you’ll thank yourself.
Nutrition
Nutrition is crucial after surgery, and proteins play a vital role in healing. Proteins are essential for building and repairing tissues damaged after the labiaplasty procedure. They also support collagen formation, a protein that strengthens skin and tissues.
Though we understand that it can be tempting to eat fast foods and easy-to-eat dishes, make sure that you’re also prioritising the inclusion of nutrient-rich foods in your diet.
Improve Your Confidence With New Birkdale Clinic
Through this guide, we hope to have provided you with further insight into what to expect when undergoing labiaplasty, from surgery costs to recovery time. At New Birkdale Clinic, we have a team of skilled surgeons ready to help transform your body and help you develop confidence.
Considering a labiaplasty? Book your consultation today.