How is the Labiaplasty Procedure Performed?
Labiaplasty begins with an in-depth consultation where Dr. Contogiannis will review your goals, assess your anatomy, and determine the most suitable approach. Your medical history, medications, and any previous gynecological surgeries are discussed, and preoperative photos may be taken for planning.
The procedure is performed under either local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the surgery and your comfort level. Two primary surgical methods are used: the trim method, which removes excess tissue along the outer edge to create a smoother contour, and the wedge method, which removes a V-shaped section from the central labia while preserving the natural edge and pigmentation. In some cases, the procedure may be combined with clitoral hood reduction or adjustments to the labia majora for a balanced result.
Once the excess tissue is removed, Dr. Contogiannis carefully closes incisions with dissolvable sutures. Surgery typically takes one to two hours, and patients can return home on the same day.
What Can I Expect From the Labiaplasty Recovery Period?
Recovery is relatively straightforward, but it’s important to closely follow Dr. Contogiannis’ instructions to ensure optimal healing. Immediately after surgery, mild to moderate swelling and tenderness are common, and using cold compresses can help reduce discomfort. You will need to arrange for someone to drive you home and should plan to rest for the first day or two.
During the first week, swelling and bruising are at their peak. Loose clothing and breathable cotton underwear are recommended to avoid irritation. Most patients feel well enough to return to non-strenuous work within a week, while physically demanding jobs may require up to two weeks off.
Over the next several weeks, swelling subsides gradually. Light walking can be resumed within a few days, but activities such as running, heavy lifting, cycling, and sexual intercourse should be avoided for about six weeks or until your Dr. Contogiannis confirms you are fully healed. Dissolvable stitches will fade naturally, and most patients see their final results within three to six months, once residual swelling has completely resolved. Scarring is minimal and typically blends in with the surrounding tissue.
How Much Does Labiaplasty Cost?
The cost of labiaplasty is personalized to each patient’s needs and goals, so a personalized quote is provided following an initial consultation. Your cost range also includes standard expenses associated with plastic surgery, such as the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia fee, post-op costs, lab fees, etc. In addition, rates for aesthetic procedures vary across the country depending on your geographic region. Luckily, costs in North Carolina are typically more economical and affordable than other major U.S. cities.
Factors unique to your treatment plan will also influence total costs, such as the surgical technique(s) used to achieve your goals and whether your labiaplasty is part of a larger Mommy Makeover. As a cosmetic procedure, labiaplasty is not typically covered by insurance. However, our Greensboro practice accepts plastic surgery financing for qualified patients through CareCredit® and ALPHAEON™ Credit. Our office team would be happy to answer any questions you may have about the cost of your procedure or our financing/payment options.
Dr. Contogiannis understands the aesthetic and functional discomforts associated with excess labial tissue. If you’re looking to improve your day-to-day life by reducing symptoms, please don’t hesitate to schedule an initial consultation today with our board-certified plastic surgeon at the Renaissance Center for Plastic Surgery & Wellness.