What Are the Labiaplasty Risks?

Labiaplasty risks can seem frightening if you don’t fully understand the labiaplasty procedure and the fact that complications associated with labiaplasty surgery are actually very low.

Let’s take a closer look at the minimal risks of labiaplasty surgery and what you should know about them if you are considering this cosmetic procedure.

What Are the Risks of Labiaplasty?

The real risks of labiaplasty complications are, again, very rare. With that said, it’s certainly understandable to have concerns about undergoing any type of cosmetic surgery.

Labiaplasty is generally safe and is a commonly performed outpatient procedure. When performed by a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon, especially, you should be in good hands, and successful results are likely.

The following is a list of the most common complications that could very rarely occur with labiaplasty. For the most part, these are risks that may occur with any plastic surgery procedure.

Risks of Labiaplasty Procedure

1. Adverse Anesthesia Reaction

Anesthesia used during labiaplasty may be general anesthesia or local anesthesia with IV sedation. The patient’s blood pressure, oxygenation, ventilation, etc. will be monitored throughout surgery.

Still, in rare cases, patients might experience adverse reactions to anesthesia during or after labiaplasty surgery. Your plastic surgeon will discuss these risks with you at your consultation.

2. Excessive Bleeding

Bleeding is natural with any surgical procedure, including labiaplasty surgical procedures. While minimal bleeding is to be expected during surgery (as well as some light bleeding after surgery around the vaginal opening were excess tissue was removed), excessive bleeding or reopened incisions post-surgery are serious. Again, these occurrences are very rare but do require immediate attention.

3. Infection

Bacterial infection is another rare but potential risk of labiaplasty. Your qualified surgeon will discuss the potential for infection after surgery and tell you what signs to look for. These typically include severe pain, uneven pain or uneven swelling, bright redness around the surgical site(s), heat, and a high fever. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your surgeon promptly.

4. Sensation Changes

Some patients experience temporary changes in sensation (such as numbness) in the labia minora or labia majora after surgery. This is usually due to temporary nerve damage and typically gets better over time. If you have changes in sensation that persist for long periods, be sure to discuss these with your surgeon at your next appointment.

5. Scarring or Irregularities

Scarring happens whenever incisions are made. Because excess skin and tissue will be removed from the labia minora (inner vaginal lips) during labiaplasty surgery, you will end up with incision scars. This is to be expected.

The good news is that scarring after labiaplasty is usually minimal and well-hidden. At the same time, there is a small risk of noticeable scarring or irregularities once you’ve healed. This is true especially if the incisions don’t heal properly. However, with proper surgical technique and post-operative care, your risk will be minimal.

6. Dissatisfaction with Results

The vast majority of labiaplasty patients are very happy with their results after labiaplasty. However, if you are unhappy with your outcome, revision surgery may be an option in such cases.

Choosing the Right Surgeon for Your Labiaplasty

Selecting a board certified plastic surgeon with specific experience in labiaplasty is crucial in order to achieve safe and satisfactory results.

We advise researching potential surgeons, reviewing before and after photos, and scheduling consultations to discuss your concerns and goals. By choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon, you can minimize the risks associated with labiaplasty and ensure optimal results after your surgical reduction.

Labiaplasty Before and After Pictures

While labiaplasty before and after photos may not be readily available online due to the intimate nature of the procedure, many surgeons offer in-person consultations where you can view their portfolio and discuss your expectations.

FAQ: Risks of Labiaplasty

How much is labiaplasty?

Patients who want an estimate on their labiaplasty cost should schedule a consultation appointment. Online estimates cannot take the particulars of each patient’s unique situation and goals into account.

What can go wrong with labiaplasty?

Labiaplasty, like any other surgical procedure, can result in complications such as physical discomfort, infection, bleeding, or unsatisfactory results. With that said, labiaplasty complications around the vaginal lips or elsewhere are exceedingly rare.  Following plastic surgeons post operative care instructions usually leads to great results.

Is labiaplasty a high risk surgery?

No, overall, labiaplasty is a very safe surgery with consistently successful results when performed by a board certified, experienced surgeon.

Learn More About The Risks of Labiaplasty at Your Consultation

Interested in learning more about labiaplasty healing time or the risks of this surgery? We invite you to schedule a consultation appointment with female board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Smita Ramanadham.

Although most patients are extremely happy with their results and complications are exceedingly rare, we would be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have at your consultation. Please call today to book your appointment!

References

https://www.webmd.com/women/vaginoplasty-and-labiaplasty-procedures