For as long as the procedure has been available, labiaplasty has been the leading treatment option for women who are concerned by their large or irregular labia.
Commonly performed to address a range of physiological issues such as discomfort when wearing tight pants or pain experienced during intercourse, many patients opt for a labiaplasty procedure purely because they’re unhappy with the size or shape of their labia.
While labiaplasty is a highly effective method of labia reduction, like any surgical procedure, it does carry some risk and patients need to account for the associated recovery period.
For patients who have concerns about their labia and are exploring alternative treatment options to conventional labiaplasty surgery, newer treatment options such as Radio Frequency (RF) labiaplasty and laser labiaplasty are available. However, it’s important to note that results can vary.
Radio Frequency (RF) Labiaplasty
RF vaginal rejuvenation is a non-invasive alternative to labiaplasty, can potentially improve the size and appearance of the labia. However, the results can vary significantly among individuals and it’s important to have realistic expectations.
The technology, which is also commonly used to tighten skin and treat wrinkles on the face, neck and other areas of the body, works by gently heating the skin to trigger the body’s natural rejuvenation processes. Using a slim handheld device, RF electrodes are emitted a few millimetres into the skin to activate fibroblasts (the cells in connective tissue responsible for the production of collagen), which works to both shrink and tighten the labial skin.
Treatments can be performed in around 30 minutes without the need for any form of anaesthesia. Temperature is also controlled to ensure the procedure is completely safe from risk of overheating.
After several treatment sessions (which should be spaced at least one month apart), patients typically see a significant improvement in the firmness and elasticity around the treatment area, along with softer, smoother skin.
Potential benefits of the treatment include noticeable results within 1-2 days, no required downtime, and no scarring. However, it’s important to note that outcomes can vary between patients.
While the treatment can potentially impact labial laxity, it’s important to note that the results may not be as significant as those from a conventional labiaplasty procedure, particularly in cases where there is significant tissue laxity or sagging. It’s crucial to discuss these factors and potential risks with your surgeon. Patients will also need to undergo an additional maintenance treatment approximately once a year.
Laser Labiaplasty
Also known as vaginal laser resurfacing, is another alternative to traditional labiaplasty surgery. It’s important to note that while this method is less invasive, it still requires a skilled practitioner and carries its own risks and potential complications.
Using a CO2 or Erbium laser, laser labiaplasty works in a similar way to RF labiaplasty, heating the skin to cause tissue fibres to contract and trigger the formation of new collagen to restore elasticity and shrink and tighten the labia without the need to remove any skin or tissue.
As a straightforward procedure, laser labiaplasty can be performed in less than one hour without with minimal risk of complications. Multiple treatments will be required before you’ll be able to see a discernible improvement.
While the procedure doesn’t require any surgical incisions, as it is minimally invasive, patients will still need to allow a week or so the skin to heal and recover before resuming their regular activities including sexual intercourse. When compared to the 6-8 weeks required to make a full recovery following a conventional labiaplasty procedure, the recovery period is still relatively short.
Like RF labiaplasty, the results of laser labiaplasty treatment can be effective for some patients, however they may not be suitable for patients suffering from more significant tissue laxity or labial sagging.
Which type of labiaplasty is best?
As each patient’s condition and requirements are different, it’s important to discuss with a healthcare professional to understand which type of labiaplasty treatment may be suitable for you.
At Me Clinic, our surgeons have a combined experience of over 35 years in the field of cosmetic surgery and medicine. We are committed to providing safe and effective treatments, tailored to the individual needs of our patients. We provide a discreet and welcoming environment so you feel comfortable to explore the available treatment options and decide which labiaplasty treatment is right for you.
To find out more, view the Labiaplasty Melbourne page on our website or contact us to arrange a personal consultation with one of our surgeons.
