Labiaplasty in Calgary, AB

Improve contours, eliminate discomfort.

A labiaplasty is a procedure designed to help women deal with the embarrassment and discomfort of having large or uneven labia minora (inner labia). Some women are bothered by the feel or appearance of their labia minora protruding or hanging beyond the labia majora (outer vaginal lips). This is an issue that is often the source of much anxiety and embarrassment for women.

Is Labiaplasty right for Me?

The reasons a woman chooses to have labiaplasty are completely personal; there isn’t a set list of criteria. Some women seek to change the aesthetic appearance of their labia. Others want to overcome their labia interfering with intimacy or certain sports or activities. Intercourse can be painful due to the labia for some women. Plus, if you feel self-conscious during intimacy, no one deserves to have those feelings. Labiaplasty does not involve a difficult recovery.

Labiaplasty surgery may be right for you if:

  • You have a large labia
  • Your labia is uneven
  • You experience pain or discomfort during intercourse or physical activities

Women may become more bothered by their labia after childbirth or with age since there can be some stretching out of the tissues as a result of these events. If you are uncomfortable with the look of your labia or you are experiencing irritation and discomfort as a result of certain types of clothing or activities, labiaplasty may be the right choice for you.

How Labiaplasty is Performed

The methods Dr. Dawes uses for labiaplasty are tailored specifically to the individual patient and her goals for the procedure. The most common need is to reduce the labia minora, which are situated inside the labia majora. To reduce these issues, Dr. Dawes uses two methods. In a “wedge” incision, a vertical wedge of labia minor tissue is removed. In an “edge” excision, he removes tissue along the edge of the lips. In many cases, extra folds of the clitoral hood are also reduced at the same time.

In cases where the labia majora are too large and uncomfortable, Dr. Dawes will remove an elliptical-pattern piece of tissue through a small, hidden incision.

Recovery Expectations

While recovery from labiaplasty is usually straightforward, you will still need to take it easy at first. You will need to avoid strenuous exercise for 1-2 weeks. Sexual activity can usually resume after about 4-6 weeks after your surgery. There will be some swelling present for a few days to weeks after your labiaplasty. Bruising may occur and may persist for up to 3 weeks. Dr. Dawes will see you regularly after your surgery to ensure that you are healing well and progressing well.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you’re interested in learning more about labiaplasty please contact us for a consultation at 403-571-3141 or fill out our contact us form below. We will discuss your needs and concerns, and determine your best course of action.

Labiaplasty FAQs

The scars from these procedures are very small. Plus, they can be effectively hidden in the natural creases of the area, making them virtually invisible moving forward. Thanks to the board-certified surgical expertise and experience of Dr. Dawes, you’ll be happy with your results and the lack of visible scarring.

The Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan generally does not cover labiaplasty, as it is considered elective, cosmetic surgery. However, if your reasons for having the procedure are due to pain caused by the labia, the procedure could be covered. You will need to document the problems you’ve had prior, and this will need to start with your primary care provider.

These are not complicated procedures with Dr. Dawes. They typically take just 45 minutes to one hour.

These surgeries don’t remove or damage any of the sensory nerves in the area, so your sensitivity shouldn’t be changed. The reality is that, since unnecessary tissue has been removed, many women report enhanced sensation after having labiaplasty. Plus, it’s important to know that these surgeries don’t involve the clitoris at all, so there cannot be any change in sensation there.

Thanks to the highly vascular nature of the vaginal area, risks with this surgery are low. The risks are for potential chronic dryness, possible pain during intercourse, and loss of sensation. Loss of sensation is a higher risk the more tissue that is removed, but the risks are still quite low.

Labiaplasty recovery isn’t overly difficult, but you will need to lay low for the first five days or so. And you’ll need to ice the area for 20 minutes on and then 20 minutes off for the first day or two. This will help with swelling and pain. So, your preparation should plan for this. Prepare where you’re going to chill out. Have a good book, the remote, your laptop, or iPad, whatever things you want to make laying around easier.

It’s a good idea to have someone help around the house. You won’t feel like cooking or doing any chores for a few days.

You will also need to remember to inform your partner that any intercourse is out for at least 4-6 weeks afterward. This is important, as engaging in sex too soon after labiaplasty risks tearing the incisions. Likewise, tampons must be avoided for six weeks.

Learn More

Contact us today to learn more about our plastic surgery products & services.

Book a consultation online or call 403.571.3141

“My role, in part, is to assist patients through the process of determining which surgical or non-surgical options would help them meet their aesthetic goals and realistic expectations” - Jeffrey C. Dawes MD, FRCSC

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What Happens in a Consultation?

  1. You will meet Dr. Dawes for an individualized, comprehensive evaluation. Dr. Dawes will offer individualized recommendations regarding the best treatment options available to you in a way that will allow you to make a confident, well-informed decision.

  2. You will then meet with a staff member to review your customized quote, discuss financial options and ask questions.

  3. Discuss potential treatment or procedure dates.

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