9 Labiaplasty Myths, and Why They’re So Wrong

Labiaplasty is a sensitive topic, so sometimes it’s hard to find accurate information. That also means it’s easy to find the wrong information, which might be stopping you from taking the next step in achieving the body of your dreams.

So let’s take a look at some of these most common myths, and find out exactly why they’re fiction.

1. Labiaplasty is very painful.

Even though labiaplasty is performed on a very delicate area, the surgery is generally tolerated quite well by most patients.

Labiaplasty is performed with a local or general anesthetic, meaning your procedure will be pain-free. Plus, any pain or discomfort you experience after your procedure can be alleviated with over-the-counter pain medicine.

Most labiaplasty patients feel comfortable enough to return to work and normal activities in just a few days.

2. Labiaplasty is only meant to treat sexual dysfunction.

Labiaplasty is actually meant to reshape the labia minora/majora. While many women opt for a labiaplasty to reduce discomfort related to an enlarged labia, the procedure does not directly address sexual dysfunction.

Vaginoplasty is the name of the operation used to correct sexual dysfunction.

3. Labiaplasty is solely a cosmetic procedure.

While labiaplasty is not the same as vaginoplasty, the former is still often used for more than cosmetic reasons.

An elongated or enlarged labia can make intercourse and some types of exercise painful or uncomfortable, and in many cases a labiaplasty can help alleviate that pain.

4. Labiaplasty results aren’t permanent.

Wrong. Labiaplasty results are permanent (assuming your procedure was performed by a skilled surgeon).

Even giving birth won’t change that.

5. Labiaplasty interferes with sexual stimulation.

Sexual stimulation relies on sensitive nerve endings, the most important of which are NOT located in your labia. Labiaplasty does not interfere with sex, it doesn’t interfere with your ability to orgasm, and it doesn’t stop you from getting pregnant.

6. Doctors who perform labiaplasties are creepy.

Every once in a while, a story breaks about a totally unprofessional surgeon. The thought of a medical professional betraying the trust of his or her patients is almost unthinkable.

But these cases are thankfully few and far between. Most importantly, you have the tools available to research the best, most trustworthy doctors in your area, read their patient reviews, meet face to face and determine who the best surgeon is for YOUR procedure.

7. Labiaplasty leaves obvious scarring.

Experienced surgeons know exactly how to hide and minimize scarring. Your labiaplasty results will look natural, and soon you won’t remember you even got surgery—it’s just the new you.

8. Only vain women get labiaplasty.

Patients who choose labiaplasty do so for many reasons; sexual discomfort, pain during exercise, or simply wanting to feel more confident about their bodies.

Looking through that list above, I don’t see the word ‘vain’ anywhere.

It’s your body. Don’t let other people shame you for wanting to look and feel great.

9. Any surgeon can perform a labiaplasty.

To get great results from any surgical procedure, you need a doctor with years and years of experience, training, and dedication to patient care. The best doctor takes time to explain all of your options, answer your questions and help you choose the right path forward.

Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon for your labiaplasty is the safest bet to gain the results you want and avoid unnecessary complications. Dr. Jones is board-certified AND the president of the Utah State Plastic Surgery Society, meaning he follows the toughest standards of ethics, education, and patient happiness in the state of Utah.