TYPES OF LABIA

The vulva (external genitalia) is made up of two types of labia called the labia majora and labia minora. The labia help to protect the vagina and urethra.

Labia Majora

Also known as the outer lips, the labia majora are folds located on the outside of the vulva. They are often covered in pubic hair.

Labia Minora

Also known as the inner lips, the labia minora are folds closer to the vagina that extend from the clitoris to the vaginal opening.

Related: What Are The Vaginal Atrophy Treatment Options?

COMMON LABIA SHAPES

Labia come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and types. In some cases, labia simply have characteristics that might make them stand out or look different from the average. In other cases, factors like pregnancy, childbirth, aging, hormonal changes, or injury can alter the appearance of different types of labia.

Asymmetrical Labia

It’s fairly common for one side of the labia minora to be longer than the other. When this occurs, a woman may notice that one side appears to hang beyond the boundary of the labia majora. While common, asymmetrical labia shapes can sometimes lead to physical discomfort or self-consciousness.

Dangling Outer Labia

When outer lips are prominent enough to spill over to hang outside the underwear, these types of labia are often described as dangling outer labia. With this situation, the inner lips become more exposed. Many women also find that wearing fitted clothing becomes more challenging.

Prominent Labia Minora

Prominent inner lips extend below the labia majora. In addition to leaving the inner lips more exposed and vulnerable to irritation and infection, these types of labia can make it difficult to wear fitted clothing or bathing suits without fear of the inner labia becoming visible.

Prominent Labia Majora

When outer lips are thick or puffy, this can create a visible mounded look under fitted clothing or bathing suits. When outer lips appear puffed or oversized, this can create the effect of shrinking or hiding the labia minora.

Curved Labia

Curved labia shapes are actually caused by a curved vulva with outer lips that are molded into something that resembles a horseshoe. When the outer lips are curved, the inner lips will be pushed to peek through the front. In some cases, the labia minora will extend past the labia majora to be visible and prominent. In others, they will remain tucked under the labia majora.

Thin or Wrinkled Labia

In general, thinning or shrinking of the labia will occur with aging and hormonal changes. As women approach perimenopause and menopause, decreased collagen production and reduced blood supply to the genitalia cause skin to lose collagen and elasticity. It’s not much different from the way women may also experience thinning skin on the face or neck due to hormonal changes with age. As tissue in the labia thins, it also becomes more vulnerable to damage and trauma that can exacerbate visible wrinkling.

LABIAPLASTY FOR LABIA CORRECTION

Whether you have concerns about the appearance of the labia or asymmetry and prominence are creating discomfort and irritation, labiaplasty is an option that can help to reshape the labia. Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that alters the appearance or size of the inner and outer vaginal lips. During a procedure, a doctor reshapes or resizes the inner lips, outer lips, or both to create symmetry, restore or decrease volume, and correct other concerns.

The term labiaplasty actually encompasses many different procedures for different labia shapes. These procedures can involve removing tissue to reduce size or prominence of labia, reconstructing labia using tissue from other areas, or injecting filler material to plump up labia. While labiaplasty is often thought of as a cosmetic procedure, many women choose it for hygiene reasons. Excess labia tissue or profound asymmetry can make cleaning more difficult. By undergoing labiaplasty, you may be able to reduce your risks for urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other dangerous bacterial infections.

Are you interested in learning more about labiaplasty procedures for different types of labia? Dr. Michael Tahery is a leading Obstetrician-Gynecologist (OB-GYN) and Urogynecologist who has spent the past two decades providing gynecology, urogynecology, and cosmetic care to patients throughout the Los Angeles and Glendale areas. Contact Dr. Tahery to book a consultation today.

The post Understanding The Different Types Of Labia and Shapes appeared first on Best Uro-Gynecologist Los Angeles, OB/GYN Glendale | Dr. Michael Tahery.

THE LABIAPLASTY PROCEDURE

While there was a time when labiaplasty meant traditional surgery, patients today can choose between surgical and scalpel-free laser labiaplasty procedures to achieve their desired results.

Surgical Labiaplasty

Labiaplasty surgery can vary based on whether a patient’s goal is labia reduction or enlargement. When shortening the labia minora, a surgeon will trim excess tissue from the edge of the labia or remove a wedge-shaped piece of tissue. For enlargement procedures, small amounts of fat are taken from another part of the body during a liposuction procedure in order to be injected into the labia for shaping and plumping. Generally, the fat is taken from the thigh, abdomen, or other area with available reserves. For some procedures, a common filler material called hyaluronic acid (HA) is injected in place of fat. Depending on whether a patient is addressing overall volume loss or seeking to balance unevenly sized labia, injections may either be done on one or both sides of the vaginal lips.

Depending on the specifics of the procedure, either local anesthesia or general anesthesia will be used. Recovery time for labiaplasty surgery is typically six to eight weeks. It can take up to six months for swelling to reduce to the point that patients can see full results.

Laser Labiaplasty

Laser labiaplasty is a gentler procedure that utilizes laser technology to reduce or reshape the labial minora and/or labia majora. Today’s lasers are capable of trimming, realigning, and reshaping labia without the need for a scalpel. Like traditional labia surgery, laser labiaplasty requires either local or general anesthesia. Next, laser heat is used to precisely cut and remove labia tissue. Depending on the type of laser used and the specifics of the procedure, recovery generally takes two to four weeks.

Related: When Do You Need Vaginal Rejuvenation?

SIGNS YOU NEED LABIAPLASTY

Labiaplasty can dramatically improve confidence levels and quality of life for patients. While some seek labiaplasty for aesthetic reasons, these procedures can also offer benefits for hygiene, sexual health, and more.

Labia Appearance

When the inner labia extend lower than the outer labia, they are often visible under clothing. Labiaplasty is commonly used to address oversized or larger-than-normal inner vaginal lips that are visible through certain types of paints, skirts, and dresses. While it’s normal for labia to be visible to some degree when wearing sheer or tight-fitting clothing, oversized or protruding labia are often visible even when wearing thick jeans or adding multiple layers for concealment.

Discomfort Wearing Certain Clothes

Large or protruding labia can make wearing many different types of clothing a challenge. For example, fitted items like leggings and bicycle shorts may cause tugging and chaffing. In addition, most types of underwear can cause pain and discomfort.

Discomfort During Physical Activities (Sex or Exercise)

Excess labia tissue can get twisted, tugged, pulled, and pinched during any kind of physical activity. When labia are enlarged or protruding, this can make certain types of exercise feel awkward or painful. For example, participating in cycling classes or riding a bicycle can cause tension and irritation because the labia will come into contact with the seat. Running, jogging, and other forms of exercise can also cause rubbing and chaffing. It’s even possible to experience painful chafing and irritation simply when walking. Many women feel self-conscious when they need to make constant adjustments while working out.

Large or uneven labia can also make sexual activity painful or unpleasant. Excess tissue often causes soreness and chafing during intercourse. In addition, excess labia tissue can make maintaining good hygiene more difficult. This can lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other bacterial infections that can make sex feel painful and impact sexual health.

Are you interested in learning more about labiaplasty procedures? Dr. Michael Tahery is a leading Obstetrician-Gynecologist (OB-GYN) and Urogynecologist serving the Los Angeles and Glendale areas. With more than two decades of experience in gynecology, urogynecology, and cosmetic care, Dr. Tahery offers the latest in surgical and laser labiaplasty procedures. Contact Dr. Tahery to book a consultation today.

The post What Is Labiaplasty? And What Are The Signs You Need It? appeared first on Best Uro-Gynecologist Los Angeles, OB/GYN Glendale | Dr. Michael Tahery.

WHAT IS A DESIGNER VAGINA?

A “designer vagina” can be achieved using a variety of surgical and noninvasive procedures. Designer vagina surgery broadly refers to any vaginal rejuvenation procedure performed on the vagina or vulva. Depending on the patient’s goals, a designer vagina surgery can either be performed as a single procedure or include several different treatments targeting different areas of concern.

Labiaplasty

A labiaplasty is a procedure that can minimize the size and shape of the labia minora (inner lips). It is commonly used to correct enlarged or asymmetrical labia that are causing discomfort. Labiaplasty is typically an outpatient procedure performed with general or local anesthesia. When the goal is to enlarge the labia majora (outer lips) instead, filler is injected to “plump” the labia.

Vaginoplasty

Vaginoplasty is a reconstructive surgical procedure that is often performed to correct injury from childbirth or complications related to pelvic-floor dysfunction. The procedure can restore sexual function and correct vaginal laxity. Vaginoplasty is an inpatient procedure requiring a hospital recovery.

Patients seeking a nonsurgical alternative to traditional vaginoplasty can select a minimally invasive option that utilizes radio frequency (RF) to generate thermal energy. Designed to improve issues with vaginal laxity, a nonsurgical vaginoplasty does not require anesthesia or downtime.

Vaginal Rejuvenation

Vaginal rejuvenation can refer to a suite of surgical and nonsurgical procedures for addressing vaginal appearance, decreased sexual sensation, vaginal laxity, and more. Along with labiaplasty, the following procedures are often included with vaginal rejuvenation:

•  Perineoplasty: This is a surgical procedure that tightens and repairs the perineum to correct muscle weakness, sexual dysfunction, discomfort after childbirth, or trauma.

• Laser therapy: Noninvasive laser therapy is commonly used to treat vaginal dryness and atrophy. Lasers stimulate the self-healing mechanisms of vaginal tissue, promote collagen production, and improve elasticity.

• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment: PRP promotes tissue healing, blood flow, and cellular regeneration using plasma taken from a patient’s own blood. It is commonly used to address vaginal atrophy, urinary incontinence, and sexual dysfunction.

Clitoral Hood Reduction

This cosmetic surgery removes excess tissue from the folds covering the clitoris to extend clitoral exposure. In addition to improving appearance, clitoral hood surgery can also enhance sensitivity and pleasure.

BENEFITS

Designer vagina surgery can offer benefits for many different circumstances. While most commonly used to address dysfunction, trauma, or aesthetic change caused by childbirth or aging, designer vagina surgery can be used at any age to treat vaginal asymmetry, discomfort, or reduced sexual sensitivity.

Youthful Appearance

As time goes on, hormonal changes can “thin out” the appearance of the vagina. Surgery and laser treatments can help to revive the appearance of the vagina by restoring volume or making certain aspects more pronounced. Additionally, designer vagina surgery is commonly used by women who want to bounce back confidently after volume loss or other changes following pregnancy and childbirth.

Improved Function

In many cases, designer vagina surgery is the only way to truly address sexual dysfunction caused by scarring or issues with the pelvic floor. By tightening vaginal muscles and support structures, surgery can help to address urinary incontinence and boost bladder control.

Enhanced Sexual Satisfaction

Changes that occur with the vagina because of age or childbirth can diminish sexual satisfaction because of everything from feelings of being self-conscious to discomfort during sex. Many procedures involved with designer vagina surgery actually enhance tissue sensitivity to create more satisfying experiences.

Related: Innie Vagina Vs Outie Vagina | Which One Is Normal?

RECOVERY AND RESULTS

Both recovery and results can vary widely based on the procedures chosen to reach your goals for aesthetics and function. In general, laser and injectable treatments are all performed in the office as outpatient procedures. Topical pain relief is provided at the treatment site. Downtime is practically nonexistent.

Most surgical procedures are outpatient, and recovery may last several weeks. While surgical results are immediate, options that include lasers and PRP can sometimes take several weeks to produce full results because they rely on rebuilding your body’s own collagen production to change the appearance and function of vaginal tissue.

If you’d like to learn more about all of the options for designer vagina surgery, contact the offices of Dr. Michael Tahery in the Los Angeles area. Dr. Tahery is a leading gynecologist and urogynecologist specializing in surgical and nonsurgical vaginal restoration procedures. Reach out today to schedule your consultation.

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THE VULVA (EXTERNAL GENITALIA)

Vulva refers to the visible outer genitalia that is most commonly referred to as the vagina. This includes the labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, and the vaginal opening. The vulva is where most of the changes can be easily noticed as you age.

The Labia

The labia majora and labia minora are folds of skin surrounding the vaginal opening. While the labia majora are the more visible outer lips, the labia minora are the interior lips under the opening of the vagina. The labia can be smooth, short, long, or wrinkled at any age. However, some women notice that they can become longer, darker, and more pronounced as time goes on. There are many simple aesthetic options for changing the appearance of the labia. For example, many women who experience dryness or “wrinkling” with time opt for labia puffing procedures that involve injecting fillers or grafting fat into the labia for a plumping effect. In addition, genital bleaching can reverse darkening or “greying” of the skin of the labia.

The Clitoris

While the clitoris does not go away with age, many women notice that this portion of vulva anatomy begins to shrink or become less prominent during menopause. The hormonal effect of menopause on women commonly leads to something called urogenital atrophy that actually shrinks the clitoris. For women who are dissatisfied due to aesthetic or arousal issues, a procedure called a clitoral hood reduction can remove excess tissue from the clitoral hood to leave more of the clitoris exposed. Another option for reviving the clitoris is a G-spot injection. This procedure injects platelet-rich plasma (PRP) from your own blood into the clitoris and G spot to promote cell and tissue regeneration.

The Vaginal Opening

Many women experience vaginal laxity within the vulva anatomy after giving birth. It’s also common for laxity to begin as a result of hormonal changes during and after menopause. In addition to decreasing sexual satisfaction, vaginal laxity can create an uncomfortable feeling of looseness and lead to urinary incontinence. For women struggling with vaginal laxity, vaginal tightening procedures can help to restore comfort and enjoyment.

Depending on the level of invasiveness you’re comfortable with when choosing a procedure, your doctor can offer everything from vaginal exercises to surgery. A vaginoplasty is a surgical option that restores vagina anatomy by repairing muscles and soft tissue. It is often preferred by women because of its long-lasting results and ability to improve sexual response and sensitivity. If you are more interested in exploring nonsurgical vaginal rejuvenation options, radiofrequency or laser treatments can be used to trigger collagen production in the tissue within the vagina anatomy. Unlike surgery that instantly repairs tissue, laser options promote the gradual rebuilding of new cells. If you don’t feel ready to commit to a procedure, your doctor can recommend Kegel exercises and other movements designed to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.

RELATED: What is Labial Hypertrophy

THE VAGINA (INTERNAL ANATOMY)

The vaginal canal is the muscle tissue that is about 5 inches and connects the vulva or external genitalia to the uterus. The vaginal walls are elastic, with a lot of blood vessels, and very absorbent, hence why medication is sometimes administered intravaginally. 

The Vagina

Over time, the interior vaginal walls can thin out. You may experience dryness, drooping, or a noticeable decrease in the number of contoured folds within the walls. Additionally, you may feel a reduction in muscle tone within the vaginal walls that leads to decreased sensation. These changes are largely due to estrogen dips that occur with age. In many cases, hormone therapy in the form of a patch or cream can be used to balance estrogen levels. Additionally, vaginal laser rejuvenation can offer a noninvasive way to encourage the restoration of collagen in vaginal tissue to begin “building up” the vaginal walls once more.

The Cervix

The cervix is located at the lower end of the uterus. In addition to allowing menstrual blood and other fluids to flow from the uterus to the vagina, the cervix widens during childbirth. Some women experience cervical discomfort and irritation following childbirth. These issues can generally be resolved with pelvic-floor exercises. If discomfort persists, it’s crucial to speak with a doctor about having an examination called a colposcopy performed to look for abnormal cells. If something looks suspicious, a loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) can be performed to remove irregular cervical tissue.

Uterus

Located between the rectum and bladder, the uterus is a pear-shaped organ where conception and gestation take place. Pregnancy isn’t the only time when the uterus undergoes major changes. During menopause, it’s common for the uterus to shrink substantially in size. The uterus can also change due to adhesions caused by surgery or various gynecological diseases.

Ovaries

The ovaries are almond-sized glands located on either side of the uterus in the lower abdomen that produce eggs and reproductive hormones. With age, ovaries begin to produce lower amounts of estrogen and progesterone as they shrink in size. Women who experience primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) may benefit from hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and supplementation.

Do you have questions about your reproductive health? Dr. Michael Tahery is a leading board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist (OB/GYN) and urogynecologist in the Los Angeles area. Book an appointment today.

The post The Vagina Anatomy And How It Changes Over Time appeared first on Best Uro-Gynecologist Los Angeles, OB/GYN Glendale | Dr. Michael Tahery.

Innie vs Outie Vagina Differences

No two vaginas are the same. There are thousands of “micro” differences between vaginas that help to make each one unique. However, women will either have an innie or an outie vagina based on the configuration of the vulva. The term vulva refers to the visible portion of the vagina consisting of the outer lips (labia majora) and inner lips (labia minora). There’s no “right” or “better” type of vagina to have. In fact, a study published in 2017 found that around 56% of vaginas could be classified as “outies” based on the fact that they have visible labia. That means that it’s essentially just as common to have one or the other.

Innie Vagina

An innie vagina is characterized by inner lips that are shorter than the outer lips. The labia minora are essentially “tucked” away out of sight. In general, innie vaginas don’t pose risks for discomfort or infection. However, some women with innie vaginas still seek treatments for asymmetry and volume loss stemming from childbirth, aging, or genetics.

Outtie Vagina

As shared above, an outie vagina refers to a vagina with inner lips that are visible from the outside. Typically, this means that the inner lips are longer than the outer lips. As a result, the inner lips can actually be felt or seen from the outer labia. Outtie vaginas can vary drastically in shape. Despite the fact that an outie vagina is considered perfectly normal and healthy, some women feel self-conscious about their visible inner lips. They may feel uncomfortable wearing bathing suits or tight-fitting pants because they fear that their inner vaginal lips will be visible through clothing.

In addition to making a woman feel self-conscious, lips that protrude can potentially cause discomfort or pose health risks. In cases where the inner lips are disproportionately longer and larger compared to the inner lips, women may experience decreased quality of life and sexual health. Risks include pain during sports or physical activity, irritation and chafing, increased likelihood of infection, and difficulty with keeping the labia properly cleaned.

RELATED: Will Labiaplasty Get Rid Of Camel Toe?

Innie and Outtie Vagina Treatments

While no woman should feel self-conscious about her own vagina when comparing innie vs outie vagina, the truth is that there’s also no need to feel like you’re stuck with a vagina style that makes you feel embarrassed or self-conscious. There are many surgical and non invasive treatments that can improve the shape and appearance of your vagina to help you step into a more comfortable way of being. One of the most popular outie vagina treatments is labiaplasty. During this surgical procedure, the size of the labia can be increased or decreased. Unwanted tissue can be removed via laser or scalpel in order to create more “hidden” inner lips. Labiaplasty is commonly chosen by women who struggle with difficulty with exercise and hygiene due to having outie vaginas. It can also help if you are struggling with sexual health or urinary tract infections. 

A popular innie vagina treatment is labia puffing. The goal of labia puffing is to enhance the outer folds of skin surrounding the vaginal opening. “Plumping” can be achieved through filler or fat transfer. If you have an innie vagina that appears thin, lax, or asymmetrical, this procedure can help to add volume and rejuvenation. 

While you’re feeling self-conscious about your vagina because it looks different from what you assumed was a “normal” vagina, you may simply be like most women who have unrealistic standards for what a vagina should look because the differences between an innie vagina and outie vagina simply aren’t shared with women enough. In reality, there should never be a beauty standard for vaginas. However, there are many surgical and laser vaginal rejuvenation treatments available that can help you feel comfortable and confident in your own skin.

Dr. Michael Tahery is an obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN) and urogynecologist in Los Angeles and Glendale specializing in labiaplasty and vaginal rejuvenation. He has spent the last 20 years helping women discover treatments for enhancing sexual health. Contact Dr. Tahery today to discuss any of your concerns regarding an innie or outie vagina.

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Saggy Labia

It’s important to note that Ozempic isn’t officially linked with any symptoms of what people are calling Ozempic vagina. It is still yet to be determined if Ozempic causes any side effects on vaginal health. The rapid weight loss that many people experience after beginning Ozempic is believed to be what’s responsible for these changes. In some women who take Ozempic, the rapid weight loss that occurs throughout the body may result in visible sagging of the labia or vagina because of overall fat and volume loss. This sagging is caused by loose labia loose skin in the vaginal area, wrinkles, or some combination of all three. It’s also common for rapid weight loss to cause the labia to suddenly feel out of proportion compared to how it previously felt.

Vaginal Laxity

When we lose weight rapidly, it’s common to also lose muscle mass. Unfortunately, muscle loss that results from Ozempic use can actually cause vaginal laxity. Vaginal Laxity isn’t just a cosmetic issue. The loosening of muscles that occurs with weight loss can lead to pelvic weakness and incontinence, and some women have reported a feeling of looseness during intercourse.

Vaginal Dryness

If you’ve noticed vaginal dryness since starting Ozempic, you may be wondering if the medication could be to blame. This side effect isn’t quite as easy to pinpoint. One thing that is known about Ozempic is that it can sometimes cause side effects that include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If these symptoms persist, they can leave you chronically dehydrated. Being dehydrated can cause vaginal dryness.

RELATED: Labiaplasty Cost in Los Angeles

Treatments for Ozempic Side Effects

If you’re feeling self-conscious about Ozempic vagina, there are several things to know. First, it’s important to book a consultation to discuss the symptoms of Ozempic vagina you’re experiencing to confirm that they are actually linked with your weight loss. While Ozempic and other weight-loss drugs certainly can be responsible for looseness, sagging, and dryness, it’s wise to rule out other potential causes. Everything from menopausal changes to gynecological conditions could be behind the symptoms you’re experiencing. If vaginal changes are being caused by an untreated underlying factor, it’s important to identify and treat the root cause. If it’s determined that your symptoms are being caused by Ozempic vagina, there are several treatments that can help to restore firmness and tightness to the vagina.

Labiaplasty

If Ozempic has left you with sagging skin, labiaplasty can be an option for tightening things up down there. With a high satisfaction rate of over 90%, this cosmetic gynecology procedure can change the shape and size of the vulva’s labia minora and labia majora. Commonly used as a restorative treatment for women following childbirth or age-related changes, labiaplasty can leave you feeling more sexually confident and have the freedom to wear what you wouldn’t before the procedure.

Vaginal Tightening

If you’re experiencing vaginal laxity that is decreasing sensation, a tightening procedure can help to restore firmness while also potentially helping with incontinence and reducing vaginal dryness. While vaginal tightening procedures can be customized, they typically involve tightening the vaginal canal while also addressing any protruding external skin for aesthetic purposes.

Labia Puffing

While the topic hasn’t been officially studied, many women have experienced wrinkling as one of the common Ozempic effects on the vulva. If Ozempic use and weight loss have left you with wrinkling of the vaginal lips, puffing can help to restore a full, supple look. There are two nonsurgical options for labia puffing. The first is to use dermal fillers to plump up the labia. The fillers used for this procedure are similar to the fillers that are commonly used in facial injections. The process involves a tiny injection done with a local anesthetic. Patients don’t need any recovery time. Results can last up to eight months per session.

The second option for addressing Ozempic effects on the vulva is labia puffing using fat graft. During this procedure, a small amount of fat is harvested from the thigh, abdomen, or other part of the body. Using a local anesthetic, the purified fat is then injected into the labia using a specialized needle. The benefit of this treatment is that it does not pose risks for rejection because it uses the patient’s own fat. The fat is easily reabsorbed by the body over time.

Vaginal Dryness Creams

If you’d simply like to address ongoing vaginal dryness that you’ve experienced since beginning Ozempic, vaginal creams can help to restore balance. Both hormonal and nonhormonal options can be used. However, patients simply looking for a natural, hormone-free option can often get the results they want from creams such as SILK that promote natural lubrication of the vaginal mucosa.

While the side effects of Ozempic for women are still being researched, many patients have experienced Ozempic effects on the vulva. Dr. Michael Tahery has more than 20 years of experience with treating complex women’s health issues. Contact our office today to book a consultation!

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Like any other surgical procedure, vaginoplasty is complex. Every woman’s needs are different, and Dr. Michael Tahery a skilled urogynecologist and expert in cosmetic vaginal surgery will work with women to achieve their distinct goals. But there’s one common question that many women wonder: How much does vaginoplasty cost?

How is the Vaginoplasty Cost Calculated?

The total cost of this procedure can vary based on numerous factors. Typically, the procedure costs anywhere between $4,000 and $20,000. However, no two surgeries are the same. Every woman’s needs are unique, and surgeons develop plans after a full examination and discussion.

Here are a few considerations that will impact how much you can expect to pay for vaginoplasty.

Number of Procedures

Another factor that will impact the total vaginoplasty cost is the number of procedures performed. Vaginoplasty involves repairing the pelvic floor and vaginal walls. How surgeons approach those repairs depends on the extent of previous vaginal injuries. The type of repairs involved are often different for every woman.

Simpler repairs and vaginal canal tightening will come with lower costs. Surgeons evaluate injuries to identify the weakness in each vaginal wall and determine what techniques will provide the desired results. In many cases, surgeons must repair more than just superficial layers. They often have to repair deeper connective tissues and muscular layers.

More complex repairs can come with higher costs. Furthermore, complicated vaginal surgery may require IV sedation versus the local anesthesia used for more straightforward procedures. Therefore, you may incur additional fees to bring in an anesthesiologist.

Dr. Michael Tahery can also combine vaginoplasty with additional procedures. Many women opt to address multiple issues during one procedure to minimize downtime. For example, surgeons can combine vaginoplasty with labiaplasty or clitoral hood reduction for a full vaginal makeover.

If your goals involve those additional surgeries, your total vaginoplasty cost can increase significantly.

Experience of Doctor

Finally, you must consider the doctor’s experience performing the surgery. The surgeon’s experience is priceless, especially with vaginal surgery. You want to work with an expert in urogynecology and vaginal cosmetic surgery. Not only can they help you get the results you’re after, but they can also do so safely and efficiently. Dr. Michael Tahery has performed hundreds of vaginal and cosmetic procedures and you can be assured you will be in good hands. 

While considerable expertise can raise the total vaginoplasty cost, it’s one area where you don’t want to skimp.

RELATED: What is Genital Bleaching?

Is the Vaginoplasty Cost Covered by Insurance?

Traditionally, vaginoplasty is not a procedure that insurance policies will cover. However, there are some exceptions. This surgery can fall under the umbrella of cosmetic and reconstructive. It all depends on your unique needs and situation.

When the primary goals are to improve tightness, aesthetic appearance, and sexual sensation, vaginoplasty is more of a cosmetic procedure. But suppose you’re considering this procedure to correct injuries and trauma after childbirth, to treat urinary incontinence, or to address other medical concerns. In that case, your doctor may consider it medically necessary. This procedure can also be combined with other medically necessary conditions like urinary incontinence which is covered by most insurance companies. The cost of the cosmetic procedures may be an additional charge depending on your coverage. 

Insurance is a complex matter, so it’s important to consult your doctor and insurance company for more guidance.

Vaginoplasty costs can vary, but many women will tell you those expenses are well worth the outcome. If you want to learn more and explore your options, consult Dr. Tahery. Dr. Michael Tahery is well-versed in vaginoplasty procedures and is an expert in cosmetic vaginal surgery. As a board-certified OB/GYN and one of the most active gynecological and urogynecological surgeons in Los Angeles, Dr. Tahery has the know-how to help women like you achieve the best results possible. Contact our offices today to schedule a consultation and see if vaginoplasty is right for you.

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Vaginal Looseness

In addition to being uncomfortable, vaginal laxity is also anatomically unsettling. Many women experience tears and laxity during vaginal delivery. This is also known as looseness of the vagina. With the vaginal canal widening a considerable amount while in labor, the vagina usually does not return to its pre-childbirth state. Most women notice the vaginal looseness during sex, with exercise, and pressure in the pelvic area with standing up.  

As a uro-gynecologist, Dr Tahery specializes in identifying damages to the vaginal structure and repairing them. Dr. Tahery has designed outpatient procedures to restore vaginal appearance and function under local anesthesia, that are minimally invasive with minimal down time. 

Stress Incontinence

Described as the unintentional loss of urine, stress incontinence involves leaking urine in response to sometimes even minimal physical activity. Laughing, sneezing, and coughing are prime examples. Not only urine loss and odor can be embarrassing, but it prevents women from being physically and sexually active in fear of urine loss. Vaginal rejuvenation procedures have proven wildly effective in remedying this issue. Dr Tahery designs individual treatment plans that are well tolerated, minimally invasive, and effective. 

RELATED: Postpartum Urinary Incontinence

Bloated, Gas, Constipation, and, Hemorrhoids

One of the most common complaints in women is abdomen bloating, gas, constipation, and hemorrhoids. Weakness in the wall between the vagina and rectum results in entrapment of stool. Inability to empty the stool results in gas, abdominal bloating, pressure in the rectum and vagina, and hemorrhoids. This is also called “outlet obstruction”. Identifying and repairing the weakness in most cases can resolve these most bothersome issues. 

Dry Vaginal Tissue

One of the most common physical changes in perimenopause and menopause is vaginal dryness. Vaginal rejuvenation surgery is touted as an effective treatment for this symptom of menopause. Vaginal dryness can make it difficult and painful to have sex, and it can also make women more susceptible to infection. Laser and radiofrequency vaginal rejuvenation procedures are effective in treating dryness, increasing the blood flow to the vagina, and restoring natural lubrication.

RELATED: Menopause and Bio-identical Hormones

To discuss your options and procedures recommended by Dr Tahery, book your personal appointment at either our Los Angeles or Glendale office. You can also explore before and after gallery to see the possibilities of  vaginal rejuvenation.

The post When Do You Need Vaginal Rejuvenation? appeared first on Best Uro-Gynecologist Los Angeles, OB/GYN Glendale | Dr. Michael Tahery.

Traditional labiaplasty is an outpatient surgical procedure that involves making incisions to remove excess tissue. While surgical labiaplasty can provide impressive results, it’s not your only option. Non surgical labiaplasty can transform your labia using lasers and radiofrequency devices.

Non-Surgical Labiaplasty vs. Surgical Labiaplasty

Non surgical labiaplasty is a non-invasive procedure that can improve the size and overall appearance of the labia. However, it works differently than traditional surgical labiaplasty. Conventional surgery involves scalpel-made incisions and physical removal of extra tissue. Meanwhile, non surgical labiaplasty utilizes radiofrequency technology.

Also known as radiofrequency labiaplasty, this procedure takes advantage of your body’s natural healing and rejuvenation processes. Instead of scalpels, your surgeon will use a handheld device with radiofrequency electrodes. The electrodes apply gentle heat to activate fibroblasts within the skin. Fibroblasts play a critical role in the formation of connective tissue. Most notably, the fibroblast cells are responsible for producing collagen proteins.

The goal of radiofrequency labiaplasty is to stimulate collagen and elastin production. Radiofrequency technology effectively stimulates those fibroblasts, allowing your body to shrink and tighten tissue. Most women notice results within a few days, but non surgical labiaplasty can provide long-term tightening as collagen and elastin production increases over several months.

Depending on your needs, you may get multiple radiofrequency labiaplasty treatments to achieve your desired results.

This non surgical labiaplasty procedure is a viable option for many women. But whether or not you’re a candidate for it depends on your needs. 

Both radiofrequency and laser techniques can provide permanent results that can transform the appearance of your labia. What’s right for you depends on your needs and expectations. A seasoned uro-gynecologist surgeon like Dr. Michael Tahery will work with you to determine if non-surgical alternatives to traditional labiaplasty are the right course for you.

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Advantages of Non-Surgical Labiaplasty

There are many reasons to consider non surgical labiaplasty. Some of the biggest concerns among women are scarring and downtime. While surgical labiaplasty has a relatively modest recovery period compared to other procedures, non-surgical alternatives decrease downtime even more.

With radiofrequency labiaplasty, most women can return to work the next day. Furthermore, there are fewer restrictions concerning physical activity and sexual intercourse. Surgical labiaplasty has a manageable recovery period, but there are often stricter limitations on what you can do as you heal.

Another notable advantage of non surgical labiaplasty is how long it takes. Because it doesn’t involve incisions, the procedure takes significantly less time to finish. Depending on the type of equipment used and what results you’re trying to achieve, it may take less than an hour to complete each session. You can drive home afterward and not worry about hospital stays, bleeding, or significant discomfort. Pain is typically a non-issue. The worst most women have to deal with is easy-to-manage tenderness or mild swelling.

If scarring is a concern, non surgical approaches trump surgical labiaplasty. A skilled surgeon like Dr. Tahery knows how to mitigate scarring either way. But with a procedure like radiofrequency labiaplasty, scarring is non-existent.

Radiofrequency devices don’t penetrate the skin. There are no incisions that could result in scarring. Therefore, your labia will have no indication of the procedure after healing. For women who worry about scarring, it’s one of the best alternatives to surgery.

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When you’re ready to explore your surgical and non surgical labiaplasty options, contact the office of Dr. Michael Tahery. Dr. Tahery is a board-certified OB/GYN and one of the most active gynecological and urogynecological surgeons in the Los Angeles area. With over 20 years of experience helping women with complex health and cosmetic issues, Dr. Tahery has the expertise to address your needs. Call us today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Tahery and learn more about what type of labiaplasty is right for you.

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Like other cosmetic surgeries, labiaplasty can be life-changing, helping you feel comfortable in your body. But despite the good this procedure can do, many women are concerned about the potential pain and the recovery process. So, is labiaplasty painful?

Pain During Labiaplasty Surgery

The good news is that labiaplasty is considered a relatively minor surgery. It occurs in an outpatient setting, in the majority of cases under local anesthesia, allowing you to recover at home. While other cosmetic procedures require significant downtime and pain management, that’s usually not the case with labiaplasty.

Is labiaplasty painful? It all depends on your distinct needs and tolerances. Everyone reacts differently to surgical procedures, and there are still inherent risks. Fortunately, a seasoned surgeon like Dr. Tahery can address your concerns and take steps to make the experience as comfortable as possible. While the vaginal area is one of the most sensitive parts of your body, labiaplasty is not considered particularly painful, however, it can be. Some women may experience labiaplasty pain during recovery, but there are many ways to mitigate those issues.

Before the procedure, Dr. Tahery will discuss your needs and expectations. He will perform a thorough examination and consultation. You can also discuss your concerns and learn more about pain management during that time. There are several labiaplasty techniques, and your surgeon will develop the right strategy to deliver the desired results. Surgeons may also prescribe medications to take before your surgery to reduce swelling and bruising while managing labiaplasty pain during recovery.

Labiaplasty involves cutting the labia minor or labia major to achieve the desired look. Typically, surgeons perform the outpatient procedure with local anesthesia. Depending on your needs, it may or may not involve sedation. If you go without sedation, is labiaplasty painful? Anesthetic ensures that you don’t feel pain during the procedure. Labiaplasty takes roughly two hours to complete, but the exact timeline varies based on the level of correction required.

RELATED: What is Labial Hypertrophy?

Pain During Labiaplasty Recovery

Ask any woman who’s received this surgery, “Is labiaplasty painful?” Most will say that if you feel any pain, it’s more likely to happen during recovery. It’s common to experience pain after the anesthetic wears off. Bruising, swelling, and moderate soreness are normal. Your surgeon will provide detailed care instructions you must follow after surgery. As with any other procedure, there is a risk of bleeding, infection, and scarring. Good post-operative care can significantly reduce those risks while effectively addressing pain.

Surgeons often prescribe pain medications you can take after your labiaplasty. However, over-the-counter pain relievers are also effective. Make sure to discuss those options before your procedure.

Soreness can cause slight labiaplasty pain during recovery. Cold compresses or ice packs can reduce swelling. When used alongside prescription or over-the-counter pain medications, they can also help manage discomfort. Some women experience a stinging sensation when urinating, but proper cleaning and follow-up care can address those issues and promote healing.

Is labiaplasty painful, and how long does it last? Expect moderate pain to last two or three days. After that, the pain should subside. At that point, you can usually go back to your everyday activities with some restrictions. Surgeons typically recommend that you avoid using tampons or doing strenuous activities like exercise and sexual intercourse.

Residual swelling and bruising may occur for several weeks. Itching is also common in the first week as the incisions heal. Generally, labiaplasty pain during recovery is no longer an issue after the first three days. However, it’s wise to wear loose-fitting clothes and take things easy until you fully recover. After four to six weeks, you can expect those cosmetic changes to be more visible. That’s also when you can also continue exercising and having sex.

RELATED: Recovery After Labiaplasty Surgery

Is labiaplasty painful? While you can expect some discomfort and labiaplasty pain during recovery, those issues typically subside after a few days. The surgery occurs with anesthesia, ensuring you don’t feel anything during the procedure. Most women have no problems recovering and returning to their usual routine in a few days and have zero physical restrictions after four to six weeks.

If you’re thinking about getting labiaplasty, turn to Dr. Michael Tahery. Dr. Tahery is a board-certified OB/GYN and one of the most active gynecological and urogynecological surgeons in Los Angeles. He has over two decades of experience helping women in Los Angeles and the surrounding areas. Call our office today to schedule your consultation. Dr. Tahery is ready to answer your questions and use his expertise to help you get the results you’re after.

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