Labiaplasty FAQs

If youâ€™re considering labiaplasty, learn more about the procedure and find answers to some of our most frequently asked questions here.

Labiaplasty Questions

What is labiaplasty?

Labiaplasty is the reduction of the labia minora, the inner portion of the labia, so that it does not hang below the labia majora, the outer portion of the labia. While this condition is benign, it may result in self-consciousness and/or discomfort when you exercise or wear tight-fitting clothes.

What happens at my initial labiaplasty consultation?

At your first consultation, Dr. Ortiz will discuss your symptoms and perform an examination to determine if you are a good candidate. If he determines labiaplasty would be beneficial for you, he will discuss surgical techniques with you.

What are the different labiaplasty techniques?

There are two techniques used in labiaplasties: the wedge technique and the edge technique.

The wedge technique involves removing a V-shaped “wedge” from both sides of the labia and stitching the edges together. This technique causes the least amount of scar tissue.

For the edge technique, Dr. Ortiz will make an incision that removes the outer edge of the inner labia, making the inner labia even with or shorter than the outer labia. This technique creates a cylindrical scar and more scar tissue than the wedge technique.

How much does labiaplasty cost?

While the price of the procedure varies from patient to patient, you should expect to pay between $4750 – $6000 for labiaplasty.

What is included in the cost of the procedure?

The cost of labiaplasty includes all pre-op and post-op appointments, anesthesia, the surgery, and surgical materials. Prescription pain medication is not covered in the cost of surgery and is not dispensed by North Raleigh Plastic Surgery.

What are your payment terms?

We require a payment of 25% of the total cost up front to secure your surgery date. The remaining balance must be paid in full no later than two weeks before the surgery takes place. While most cosmetic surgeries are not covered by insurance, we offer a cash discount and accept Care Credit and all major credit cards.

Am I a good candidate for labiaplasty?

If you are a healthy female with an excessive amount of tissue (4-5cm) on the labia, you are likely a good candidate for labiaplasty.

How long does a labiaplasty take?

The surgery takes approximately 1 hour and it is an outpatient procedure, meaning you will go home the same day.

What is the recovery process like?

After your labiaplasty, you should expect swelling and bruising in the area for around 2 weeks. You will not be able to exercise or have intercourse for six weeks. Expect spotting for 3-4 days and will need to wear pads. Most patients return to work after 3-4 days. You will have dissolvable stitches, so there is no need to return to have stitches removed.

What kind of anesthesia is used in labiaplasty?

The area will be numbed with local anesthesia and you will be given an oral sedative to calm your nerves before/during the procedure.

What kind of scar will I have?

Due to the location of the incisions, scarring from a labiaplasty is barely noticeable.

How many post-op appointments will I have?

You will have a minimum of 3 appointments with Dr. Ortiz after your labiaplasty surgery: one appointment at a week post-op, another appointment at 2 months post-surgery, and the final appointment at 6 months after surgery. If you need to see Dr. Ortiz at any time between these appointments, please call us at 919-532-2270.

Are there any possible complications?

The most common complications are a separation of the suture line, infection, and excessive bleeding. If you experience any of these issues, please contact North Raleigh Plastic Surgery or your primary care doctor immediately.