What is the origin of the word, "labioplasty"?
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WHAT IS LABIOPLASTY?
In general terms, labioplasty means plastic surgery of a lip. Although a labioplasty can involve plastic surgery to the lips of the mouth, the term is often used to refer to surgery to the small inner lips of the vagina (also known as the labia minor). The vagina is an opening in the female's body that is part of the reproductive system.
WHY IS A LABIOPLASTY OF THE VAGINA PERFORMED?
The reason for a labioplasty of the vaginal lips is because the vaginal lips have become saggy, enlarged, stretchy, unattractive, out of place, and/or distorted looking. Females with vaginal lips of this type may experience decreased self-esteem.
WHAT CAUSES THE LIPS OF THE VAGINA TO BECOME DISTORTED?
The sagginess and distortion (which can be mild, moderate, or severe) of the vaginal lips is due to tearing and stretching that occurs during delivery of the baby. The lips can become so stretchy that they actually cross over each other. In addition to childbirth, aging and various types of injuries can cause the vaginal lips to become distorted.
Another cause of distortion of the vaginal lips is poor healing of an episiotomy. An episiotomy is an incision that is made in the tissue between the vagina to the anus (the area that poop comes out of) to create a wider opening to deliver the baby.
WHAT KIND OF PROBLEMS CAN DISTORTED VAGINAL LIPS CAUSE?
Distorted vaginal lips can lead to a rash, irritation, poor hygiene, and feeling uncomfortable in tight clothing or bathing suits. Distorted vaginal lips and scarring from an episiotomy can cause women to complain of pain during sex and significant discomfort when doing activities such as jogging or bike riding. Scar tissue can be removed through surgery. However, there is always the risk that additional scar tissue can form from the scar removal surgery.
HOW DOES A LABIOPLASTY WORK?
A labioplasty works by removing extra tissue from the vaginal lips and reducing their size to create a more normal appearance. The lips on the right and left sides can be made to look more even in appearance. A labioplasty can remove tears that occurred during childbirth or over time.
WHERE AND HOW IS A VAGINAL LABIOPLASTY PERFORMED?
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A labioplasty is typically performed in an outpatient surgery center. The patient will usually experience local anesthesia or slight general anesthesia after certain medications are administered. Anesthesia is the absence of sensation. Local anesthesia is loss of sensation in a particular body area. General anesthesia is loss of sensation and consciousness in the entire body. Depending on the type of anesthesia, the patient may experience mild pain or no pain at all. Most patients are awake during the procedure.
Small cuts are made to remove any scars or extra tissue. The small cuts that are made are usually difficult to notice. Some doctors use lasers during the surgery. Dissolvable stitches are used, which do not need to be removed. It should be noted that different plastic surgeons perform labioplasties differently. MedFriendly.com cannot advocate any one technique or physician to perform this type of surgery.
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WHAT HAPPENS AFTER A VAGINAL LABIOPLASTY?
After a vaginal labioplasty, the patient goes home right after the procedure. Light activities are typically resumed the same day. There is normally no need to be off of work. When to resume sexual intercourse is based on the doctor's advice. Some doctors state that sexual activity can be resumed as early as seven days, whereas other say to wait up to 6 weeks. Tampon use and douching may be delayed for up to 6 weeks after surgery. Each type of restriction in activities depends on the individual case.
There is usually only minor pain the day of the surgery, which usually goes away by the next day. Pain medications usually do not need to be taken. Some mild to moderate swelling usually occurs, which is at its worst in two to three days after the surgery. The swelling quickly disappears over the next three weeks. There is usually no bruising present, although mild bruising can occur. The person is generally allowed to shower the day after the surgery.
When the healing process is complete, the lips of the vagina should have a better appearance. The lips should be more thin, sleek, and attractive looking after surgery. Sensation and function of the vagina should be normal, if not improved, after surgery. The person should be more comfortable performing daily activities and sexual relations should improve as well. Any signs of the labioplasty should be virtually undetectable after healing is complete. The doctor will typically have the patient come in for several follow-up visits to make sure everything is healing properly.
WHAT ELSE IS A LABIOPLASTY KNOWN AS?
A labioplasty is also known as a labiaplasty and a vaginoplasty.
WHAT IS THE ORIGIN OF THE TERM, LABIOPLASTY?
Labioplasty comes from the Latin word "labium" meaning "lip," and the Greek word "plastos" meaning "formed." Put the two words together and you have "lip formed."
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