Plastic surgeons are calling labiaplasty one of the world’s fastest-growing cosmetic procedures. This is because from 2016 to 2017 labiaplasty (alongside vaginal rejuvenation) showed the largest increase in the number of procedures done. Simply put, more and more women are seeking medical intervention to help them with concerns regarding the female genitalia.
Definitely, these numbers will spark your curiosity. After all, it is only but natural to take special interest on matters that relate to you (and your body). But while our society remains to be divided about opinions toward this major surgical operation, one fact remains to be true: labiaplasty is a life-altering procedure.
What is labiaplasty and why do women want it?
To know how your life can be changed by labiaplasty, it is important to understand what lies behind this surgical procedure. In other words, what happens when you undergo labiaplasty?
Basically, when you opt to have labiaplasty, you get plastic surgery on your labia (also known as your vaginal folds). Usually, this is done to reduce the enlarged size of either the labia minora (inner vaginal fold) or the labia majora (outer vaginal fold) which occurs in a condition known as hypertrophy. In some rare cases, the surgery is done to reduce the size of both the inner and outer folds.
There are several reasons why women opt to go under the knife and endure this process, although these reasons are roughly divided into two. First, it may for reconstructive purposes. This means that you may be inclined to undergo this surgery to reduce physical pain and discomfort brought about by the uncommon structure of your labia. The second one is categorized under cosmetic (or aesthetic) purposes. Media influence or negative commentary are common motivations for this second reason.
How can labiaplasty change a woman’s life?
So, whether you want to undergo labiaplasty for reconstructive purposes, or you are doing it for aesthetic reasons, it cannot be denied that once you undergo labiaplasty, several aspects of your life will be affected. Here are some of these changes:
It can make a difference in your physical health. Problems with your labia may lead to physical pain and health issues. For example, you might be dealing with pain when you perform certain activities like biking or horseback riding. Or you may feel discomfort when wearing tight clothing. Worse, you may be a victim of irritation and infection in the vaginal area because of the enlargement of your labia. Whatever the case, undergoing labiaplasty can help improve these conditions and free you from any physical pain that occurs down there. And when it comes to problems related to irritation and infection, a successful labiaplasty can help eliminate sources of recurrent infection by removing the excessive vaginal folds that tend to house bacteria. That being said, it can also help you achieve a healthier reproductive system.
It can boost your self-esteem. Aside from getting rid of physical pain and discomfort, labiaplasty can also improve your psychological well-being. Let’s be honest, how you perceive your body has a huge impact on your overall self-confidence. Body image issues can crush your spirit, and issues with your private parts are of no exemption. When you decide to undergo labiaplasty and emerge successfully from this surgical operation, you stand to gain self-confidence. Post-op, you come out knowing that you have been able to surpass a very private and personal issue in your life. And whether you have opted for the procedure because of functional or aesthetic reasons, choosing to undergo this major surgical procedure can make you feel even more in control of your life.
It can enhance your sexual well-being. Labiaplasty can also make a difference in terms of your sexual well-being. This is especially true if you are among the women who report dissatisfaction with their genital appearance as a reason for undergoing plastic surgery in the genitals. Having apprehensions and negative experiences when it comes to your sexual relationships is common when you have problems with your vaginal folds. You may feel insecure or experience pain and discomfort to the point that you are unable to enjoy healthy sexual relations because you have problems with your labia. Done right, labiaplasty can help you resolve sexual issues arising from your condition.
As with any other medical procedure, however, it is also important to note that there may still be risks associated with labiaplasty. Similarly, the expected outcome and subsequent recovery may vary from one person to another. In this case, careful research and preparation, as well as the right choice of a plastic surgeon, can help you avoid unwanted results.
All things considered, successful labiaplasty can make significant improvements in your physical health as it relieves you from pain and discomfort. In the same manner, you stand to gain better psychological and sexual well-being as this surgical procedure aids in restoring your self-confidence and in eliminating sexual anxiety.