There are multiple related procedures for esthetic enhancement of the female genitalia. Our staff can help you determine the best option for you based on your goals and physical characteristics. While these procedures are primarily esthetic, they can help with functional or hygienic issues. These procedures include labiaplasty, clitoral hood reduction, mons pubis liposuction or reduction, and vaginoplasty.
Labiaplasty is a procedure that reshapes or reduces the size of the labia minora (inner vaginal lips) or labia majora (outer vaginal lips). This procedure can address both functional and aesthetic concerns, helping to improve comfort and enhance the appearance of the vaginal area.
Reduction of the labia minora is more commonly performed than aesthetic enhancement of the labia majora. For labia minora reduction, Dr. Goldman prefers newer techniques that involve removal of a V-shaped wedge from the central aspect of the labia minora. Closure decreases prominence of the minora but also tightens in a front to back direction. The scar is also less noticeable than with older techniques. By itself, this procedure can be performed under local anesthesia, although most patients prefer IV sedation.
For the labia majora enhancement, fat injection may be used to restore fullness that can be lost over time with aging, pregnancy, and weight changes. Labia majora shrinkage or atrophy can also be treated by removing excess skin. Both procedures are well-tolerated, although fat injection may produce a more full, youthful appearance.
A thorough consultation with our expert, caring staff can help clarify which options are best for you.
Scarring is usually minimal and well-hidden in natural folds. Dr. Goldman uses advanced techniques to minimize visible scars, which typically fade over time, but all incisions leave some scarring.
Recovery generally involves mild to moderate swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Most patients use narcotics for 2-3 days after the procedure. Most return to work in less than a week. Patients can walk and engage in light activity immediately, but should not exercise vigorously for 2 weeks. They can return to sexual activity when comfortable, usually in 3-4 weeks.
As the name implies, clitoral hood reduction reduces excess, overhanging tissue of the clitoral hood using precise, carefully placed incisions. Not every patient undergoing labiaplasty needs this procedure. Patients who have enough excess tissue to interfere with sensitivity or compromise esthetics can have reduction. The scars are well hidden. It is important not to remove too much tissue, which can expose the clitoris excessively and cause hypersensitivity.
The procedure can be performed under local anesthesia or with sedation or general anesthesia depending on your preference and whether other procedures are being performed concurrently. Clitoral hood reduction helps create a more refined appearance while preserving the function and sensitivity of the clitoris.
Recovery typically involves managing some swelling, discomfort, and bruising. Most patients can return to light activities immediately, exercise in 2 weeks, but should avoid sexual activity until comfortable, typically 3-4 weeks.
Yes, clitoral hood reduction can be combined with other procedures. It is most commonly combined with labiaplasty or mons pubis reduction. Furthermore, Dr. Goldman often reduces the mons pubis as part of his abdominoplasty technique.
Mons pubis reduction is designed to reduce the size of the mons pubis, the rounded area of fatty tissue located above the pubic bone, under the waistline. This creates a flatter, more contoured pubic area that complements your overall body shape.
For patients who have excessive fatty tissue (lipodystrophy) but tight, smooth skin, liposuction alone can contour the mons. More commonly, patients have loose skin and excess fat.
For such patients,Dr. Goldman’s preferred technique involves skin excision, liposuction, and suspension of deep tissues to tighten and flatten this area.
The excess tissue is permanently removed, and the improved appearance of the mons pubis area is therefore permanent, although significant weight changes, aging, and pregnancy may affect results.
With liposuction, small (approximately 1/4 inch) incisions are used to remove the fat. These are generally not noticeable long-term. If excess skin is removed, an incision at the waistline is most commonly used, which camouflages the scar.
Ready to bring your aesthetic goals to life? Our team at Beachwood Plastic Surgery is here to help. As a triple-board-certified surgeon, Dr. Goldman brings unparalleled expertise and a commitment to excellence to every procedure.
During your personalized consultation, our team will provide detailed information about the procedure, address any questions you may have, and work with you to develop a tailored treatment plan that meets your unique needs. Contact us today to take the next step toward enhancing your appearance and boosting your confidence.
