Labia Minora, Labia Majora, and Clitoral Hood Alteration: Experience-Based Recommendations.
Aesthetic alteration of the genitalia is increasingly sought by women unhappy with the size, shape, and appearance of their vulva. Although the labia minora are usually the focus of concern, the entire anatomic region--minora, labia majora, clitoral hood, perineum, and mons pubis--should be evaluated in a preoperative assessment of women seeking labiaplasty. Labiaplasty is associated with high patient satisfaction and low complication rates. The three basic labia minora reduction techniques--edge excision, wedge excision, and central deepithelialization--as well as their advantages and disadvantages are discussed to assist the surgeon in tailoring technique selection to individual genital anatomy and aesthetic desires. We present key points of the preoperative anatomic evaluation, technique selection, operative risks, perioperative care, and potential complications for labia minora, labia majora, and clitoral hood alterations, based on a large operative experience. Labiaplasty competency should be part of the skill set of all plastic surgeons.
Dr Hunter is an Attending Surgeon in the Division of Plastic Surgery at the New York-Presbyterian Hospital (Weill Cornell Campus), New York, NY, and Vice Chairman in the Department of Surgery at the New York Methodist Hospital, Brooklyn, NY.
John G
JG
Hunter
D000328:Adult; D002987:Clitoris / Q000601:surgery; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures; D013518:Surgery, Plastic; D014844:Vulva / Q000601:surgery*; D055815:Young Adult