Repairing Vaginal Injuries With Labiaplasty Revision Techniques
Labiaplasty reduces the size of a naturally large labia minora (the inner vaginal lips) and helps to achieve symmetry.
While most women seek labiaplasty revision to correct unsatisfactory results of an initial labiaplasty, many revision techniques can be used to treat injuries to the labia.
Common Causes of a Torn Labia
Tears in the labia can occur from many causes, such as:
- Childbirth
- Accidents (straddle injury)
- Rough intercourse
Sadly, sexual assault and abuse can also lead to labial tearing. In these cases, surgical repair can help the victim in their effort to move on and not have a physical reminder of what was likely a terrifying experience.
It is crucial for these victims and those injured in a serious accident to receive a medical exam as soon as possible to rule out further internal damage.
Labia Reconstruction Techniques
Labiaplasty revision and reconstruction are similar surgical procedures, as both are intended to repair damage and create an aesthetically pleasing, comfortable vaginal opening.
Some of the techniques used to reconstruct torn or overly trimmed labia include the following:
- The wedge technique can be used to bypass an area of missing labia tissue by cutting out the gap and joining the new edges together.
- The labia can be recreated using the sides of the clitoral hood. This complex technique called a clitoral hood flap was developed by Beverly Hills labiaplasty surgeon Dr. Gary Alter and is often the only way to restore an absent labia.
- A scalloped or scarred labium can be repaired with the trim or wedge technique, depending on the length or width of the flaw.
- Fat can be injected into the labium to fix a minor deformity.
- A hanging clitoral hood or frenulum can be surgically restored to its proper position.
These complicated surgical techniques should only be performed by a top labiaplasty surgeon, who is skilled and experienced with an extensive understanding of genitourinary anatomy to prevent injury to this area’s blood supply.
Caring for Vaginal Injuries
While serious accidental genital injuries in girls and women are rare because the area is well-protected, accidents can happen.
Landing on the groin in a straddle position is referred to as a straddle injury and can lead to bruising, swelling, and hematomas (blood clots), which may resolve independently.
Caring for minor vaginal trauma can help the labia heal properly, and they may never need cosmetic treatment.
All penetrating vaginal lacerations require professional medical care.
How to Stop Bleeding From Minor Vaginal Cuts
Even small cuts in external vaginal tissue can cause significant bleeding.
- Use gauze or a clean, cotton cloth to apply direct pressure on the wound for 10 minutes. If bleeding hasn’t slowed down, seek emergency help. If it has almost stopped, continue to apply pressure until it does.
- Wash the cut with gentle soap and water for five minutes.
- Apply an antibiotic ointment twice daily for a few days.
Treating Vaginal Bruising and Swelling
While sometimes painful, most bruising and swelling will subside quickly. Hold a cold, wet compress or washcloth against the area for 20 minutes.
Call your doctor if:
- Pain increases
- Urinating becomes difficult
- You suspect a clot has formed and shows no signs of resolving on its own
Genital cuts and bruises usually heal within three to four days.
Preventing Botched Labiaplasties in Beverly Hills, CA
While accidents are hard to prevent, botched labiaplasties can be avoided.
As a board-certified plastic surgeon and board-certified urologist, Dr. Gary Alter is one of the top labiaplasty and labiaplasty revision surgeons in Los Angeles and uniquely qualified to perform labiaplasty, revision, and labia reconstruction, among other cosmetic and functional genital surgeries, in Beverly Hills, California.
Call our world-renown Beverly Hills labiaplasty expert at (310) 275-5566.