Is a Plastic Surgeon Better Than a Gynecologist for Labiaplasty?

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If you're considering labiaplasty, you might be wondering what type of physician is best for you. More physicians are offering to perform this procedure without the proper training—including gynecologists. This blog will discuss why a plastic surgeon is better trained to perform this procedure than a gynecologist.

Why Should I Choose a Plastic Surgeon for My Labiaplasty?

For many women, labiaplasty offers a welcome relief from the discomfort of an enlarged labia minora, whether from birth or changes in weight, age, or pregnancy. Labiaplasty not only provides physical relief from labia minora that become pinched or pulled during daily activities, exercise, and sex but also enhances the aesthetic appearance, boosting confidence in both daily life and intimate situations.

All of these benefits are possible with labiaplasty, but it's important to be aware of the risks involved. These include a botched result, which may require a secondary labiaplasty to fix aesthetic or functional issues. Some physicians performing this procedure may excise too much tissue, often removing the labia minora (either both or one labium) altogether. Other possible issues involve large, painful scars that not only can affect the appearance of the labia but also cause permanent or long-term discomfort. It's important to discuss these risks with your chosen surgeon to ensure you understand the potential outcomes before proceeding with your labiaplasty procedure.

For these reasons, it's clear there is a lot at stake when deciding who should perform your labiaplasty, especially when the qualifications for these medical professionals are somewhat murky. Below, we will detail some key differences between plastic surgeons and gynecologists.

What's the Difference Between a Plastic Surgeon and a Gynecologist?

While both physicians hold medical degrees (MDs) and can perform labiaplasties, gynecologists and plastic surgeons are very different medical specialties.

A gynecologist is a physician specializing in diagnosing and treating conditions of the female reproductive system. They perform pelvic exams, help with menstruation issues, and perform tests for sexually transmitted diseases and cancer screenings. Most gynecologists are also obstetricians (OB/GYN) responsible for treating pregnant women and delivering babies. A board-certified OB/GYN has undergone additional education and training to provide expert care in women's reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth.
A plastic surgeon is a physician who performs surgery to reconstruct the anatomy for functional, restorative, and/or aesthetic purposes. Board-certified plastic surgeons undergo additional education and training about the entire human anatomy as they routinely perform surgery throughout the face, body, and extremities. Additionally, plastic surgeons may focus on one or more specializations, taking on additional training and residencies to become even more proficient.

While gynecologists are trained to diagnose and treat issues related to the female reproductive system and can safely remove excess skin from the labia minora, they do not have the aesthetics training that a board-certified plastic surgeon does. Additionally, a board-certified plastic surgeon can manipulate the tissues for a more appropriate shape and contour, minimize scarring, and create a more natural-looking result.

How to Choose a Plastic Surgeon for Labiaplasty

Choosing the right plastic surgeon for your labiaplasty is the most important decision you can make. A board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience performing labiaplasty can make this procedure a positive, empowering experience that ends in a beautiful result.

While a plastic surgeon will have more training to perform a labiaplasty than perhaps a gynecologist, not all plastic surgeons are created equal. You'll have to choose one based on factors such as their experience and training, their results, and your own personal preferences.

Ideally, you want to choose a specialist whenever possible. A labiaplasty specialist ensures that your procedure has been performed hundreds, often thousands, of times, which increases the chance of success.

Dr. Gary Alter is a world-renowned labiaplasty and labiaplasty revision specialist. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, board-certified urologist, and the inventor of the central wedge labiaplasty technique, Dr. Alter brings a unique blend of aesthetic and anatomical knowledge to his practice. He is uniquely qualified to perform labiaplasty, as he has intimate knowledge of both genital anatomy due to his background in urology and plastic surgery aesthetic techniques. In addition to creating an improved labiaplasty method, Dr. Alter has reserved a portion of his practice for revising botched labiaplasties.

Botched Labiaplasty? There's Still Hope

If you're reading this blog and you're unhappy with your previous labiaplasty, there's hope. Dr. Alter is a master of reconstructive labiaplasty, with a wealth of techniques and decades of experience. He has successfully corrected a range of labia issues, offering a path to restoration and confidence.

Fully absent, partially absent, or uneven labia minora can be corrected through a combination of techniques, including using fat grafting to "fill in" gaps, cutting out gaps and resuturing them together, or creating a new labium out of clitoral tissue.
Rough, scalloped, or scarred edges can be repaired by cutting out the painful or unsightly scars and carefully resuturing them with an improved technique to result in neater, smaller scars.

Dr. Alter approaches each labiaplasty revision with compassion and respect and has helped thousands of women feel restored, whole, and confident. Whether you are just starting your labiaplasty journey or need assistance getting the result you wanted the first time, Dr. Alter can help.

Want to Learn More About Labiaplasty Revision in Beverly Hills, CA?

Don't leave your labiaplasty result up to chance; entrust the best for your primary labiaplasty or corrective labiaplasty. Call today at (310) 275-5566 or complete our online contact form to schedule a consultation with Dr. Alter.