When to Consider Labiaplasty Revision
If you've undergone labiaplasty, you know it removes the excess tissue from the labia minora or inner vaginal lips. Reasons to choose a labiaplasty are incredibly personal and can be both cosmetic and functional. But what if you're unhappy with the results of your labiaplasty?
Dr. Gary Alter understands that labiaplasty surgery requires skill and artistry to achieve the best results. He has earned a reputation as an expert in labia surgery and is greatly respected by his peers for his innovative techniques.
In fact, he is known for inventing the wedge labiaplasty, which is widely used by plastic surgeons worldwide. Dr. Alter is also known for his expertise in labiaplasty revision and reconstruction, using his experience and advanced knowledge to minimize and often reverse the results of a botched labiaplasty.
What Is Labiaplasty Revision?
A labiaplasty revision is done when you're unhappy with the results of your original labiaplasty. Because it's performed on a delicate area full of nerves, any mistake your surgeon makes can cause discomfort and even reduced function. Additionally, if your labiaplasty was done incorrectly, you may be more self-conscious about its appearance than before the procedure.
Below, we explore some reasons you might consider undergoing a labiaplasty revision.
Reasons for Labiaplasty Revision
Not Enough Labial Tissue Removed
One of the most common reasons for labiaplasty is the length of the labia minora. Age, pregnancy, genetics, and hormonal changes all affect the skin of the labia minora. Some women end up with labial lips that are too long, and they may be self-conscious about their appearance. In other cases, too much labial tissue can cause discomfort. If your surgeon doesn't remove enough tissue during your labiaplasty procedure, you may be unhappy with the results, both cosmetically and functionally, and seek labiaplasty revision.
Too Much Labial Tissue Removed
While the wedge technique typically offers better results and less chance of over-removal of tissue, some plastic surgeons still choose the "trimming technique."
This method is quicker than the wedge and consists of carefully trimming the edges of the labia. However, because of the elasticity of the skin of the labia minora, the trimming technique can result in an over-removal of tissue.
Besides the possibility of asymmetry, visible suture lines, and scar discomfort, over-removal of tissue can also cause vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse. Because too much tissue was removed, the labia minora no longer covers the vaginal opening, making it difficult to maintain the right amount of moisture.
Post-Labiaplasty Asymmetry
One of the most common reasons for labiaplasty revision is asymmetry. When done correctly, labiaplasty surgery results in both sides of the labia minora looking balanced and even. However, in some cases, one side of the labia minora ends up longer than the other, which is never the intended result.
Because some women undergo labiaplasty surgery specifically to address natural asymmetry, coming out of the procedure with unsatisfactory results is even more frustrating.
Pain From Scar Tissue
As with any surgery, labiaplasty will often leave scar tissue. For some women, scar tissue may be the result of an inexperienced surgeon or a surgeon using an outdated technique. Some women may be naturally prone to developing more scar tissue.
Whatever the reason, excess scar tissue can cause pain that wasn't there before, whether during intercourse, exercising, or wearing certain kinds of clothing.
Visible Scarring
Even if your reasons for undergoing labiaplasty surgery weren't entirely cosmetic, you still want the result to be aesthetically pleasing. The wedge method for labiaplasty surgery typically results in minimal, nearly invisible scarring. However, if done incorrectly or the trim method is used, it may result in more prominent scarring.
Learn More About Labiaplasty Revision in Beverly Hills
If you've undergone a labiaplasty and are experiencing discomfort, loss of function, or embarrassment about the post-surgical appearance of your labia, Dr. Alter can help. As a board-certified surgeon in both plastic surgery and urology, Dr. Alter has the credentials, skills, and depth of experience necessary for a successful labiaplasty revision.
To learn more about Dr. Alter and labiaplasty revision surgery, visit our FAQ page. To schedule a consultation, call 310-275-5566 or complete the online contact form.