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The Rise of Labiaplasty: Why More Women are Electing this Procedure

Cynthia Diehl M.D, F.A.C.S.

The Rise of Labiaplasty: Why More Women are Electing this Procedure

Labiaplasty is quickly becoming a popular treatment option for women across the country. By some estimates, the procedure has jumped in frequency by nearly 217% since 2012. But why is this treatment gaining traction among women across the country?

The Mechanics Behind Labiaplasty

To understand the growing popularity of the procedure, it’s important to understand the treatment process.

What is Labiaplasty

Every woman has uniquely shaped body parts. For some, the labia minora sits tightly within the labia majora. For others, however, the labia minora tissue extends past the outer lips. For women experiencing this condition, large inner lips can cause patients to feel uncomfortable with the appearance of this intimate area and the excess tissue can make intercourse, bike riding, running and other physical activities painful.   They may feel significant irritation or “pinching” during normal daily activities.

Labiaplasty is a common plastic surgery procedure in which the excess tissue is removed so that the inner lips of the vagina have less prominence and redundancy.

Why Labiaplasty is Gaining steam

There are a few reasons why the procedure is gaining popularity among women. Beyond the relatively straightforward treatment, changes in attitude and better communication between patients and their networks have contributed to shifting attitudes around labiaplasty.   The internet has made information readily available also.

Breaking Down the Taboo Around Women’s Reproductive Health

As the discussion around plastic surgery and women’s reproductive health becomes more commonplace, more women are feeling comfortable bringing up their physical discomfort resulting from the size of the labia and the social anxiety this can also cause. This improved communication has led to a shift in how the topic is broached by both patients and their physicians.

Word of Mouth

As with almost any other procedure or process, word spreads. More women are becoming comfortable discussing procedures with their physician, often leading to more openness with close friends and relatives. Once the taboo is removed, they feel more comfortable sharing their experience with other women considering similar procedures.

Long-Term Benefits

The physical and mental advantages of choosing labiaplasty have helped spur patients to make the decision. Beyond enhancing the appearance of the vagina, this form of rejuvenation can also help to relieve hygiene issues tied to excessive moisture. This type of vaginal rejuvenation also helps alleviate discomfort that can occur during normal daily activities, exercise, and intercourse due to large labia. The procedure can be incredibly liberating to women who enjoy exercise and have constant irritation and chafing.  The bulk of tissue in swimsuits, tight jeans, and yoga pants is another reason patients seek labiaplasty.  By decreasing the size of the labia minora, the volume of tissue is also decreased in clothing.

Aside for relieving physical discomfort, another major benefit of labiaplasty is the mental health benefit. Dr. Diehl sees many patients with social anxiety as a result of the appearance of the labia.  By redefining the shape and appearance of the vulva, labiaplasty allows these individuals to restore their confidence and self-esteem.

Rebuild Self-Confidence with Labiaplasty in Raleigh

At Diehl Plastic Surgery, our team is dedicated to helping women feel their absolute best about their bodies. If you feel that having an enlarged labia is keeping you from feeling confident in yourself or your appearance, call Dr. Diehl at (919) 381-5540 to schedule your personal and private consultation. During your visit, we will walk you through the treatment process and develop a completely customized treatment plan tailored to address your concerns and achieve your goals.