Published Apr 27, 2026
9 minute read
Labiaplasty is one of the fastest-growing procedures in plastic surgery—and yet, it’s still one of the least openly discussed. As a board-certified female plastic surgeon in Tampa, FL, I’ve had the privilege of helping thousands of women feel more comfortable, secure, and free in their own bodies. Labiaplasty surgery has transformed the lives of many women, giving them a newfound confidence and security in their bodies. This blog will discuss what a labiaplasty is, why women choose it, the process from start to finish, and who makes a good candidate.
Yes! Labiaplasty is much more common than people think.
In my practice, Temmen Plastic Surgery, I perform about five labiaplasties each week and have completed over 1,000 of them throughout my surgical career! While many of my clients are from Tampa or other areas of Florida, I have patients that fly from all over- even internationally- to get this procedure done. Patients specifically fly to my practice for this surgery, as it is safe, effective, and quick. Having any kind or surgery can be nerve racking, which is why having an experienced, board-certified surgeon is of the utmost importance.
The statistic that often surprises patients is the age range of women who seek labiaplasty. Patients that undergo this procedure range from teenage years all the way into their eighties! The “typical” patient does not exist; she can be any woman who is looking to have increased confidence and comfort in her body.
Considering the number of procedures I preform each week, one would think that labiaplasty is an openly discussed topic. However, labiaplasty is still considered “taboo” in certain settings. Advocating for women to feel their best in their bodies- no matter what part- should never be considered off-limits. Each labia is different in size, symmetry, and shape, like any other part of the body. Sometimes these variations can cause discomfort, physical or emotional. Having an all-female team in office provides patients with total understanding and empathy, an essential part of the surgical process.
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure designed to reduce or reshape the labia minora and labia majora. These are the “lips” on either side of the vaginal opening, the labia minora is the interior and the labia majora is the exterior. Every woman has a unique anatomy, and no two patients look the same.
Some women are born with labia that are different sizes and shapes (asymmetric) or overly enlarged labia. Yet, other women may experience these changes over time due to childbirth, aging, or hormonal shifts. These are completely normal and natural changes, but that does not mean they can’t be frustrating.
The goal of labiaplasty surgery is simple: improve comfort, increase confidence, and enhance appearance. During the procedure, I remove excess tissue and refine it, creating a balanced and beautiful result.
Women choose to have a labiaplasty done typically for one of two reasons.
Many of the women that come to me seeking labiaplasty experience pain or irritation daily due to excess tissue. This may include pain during exercise such as running or cycling, irritation from rubbing against clothing (especially tight-fitting activewear or swimsuits), and problems during intimacy.
In some cases, overly enlarged labia can cause discomfort with casual, everyday activities like walking, working out, or even sitting. These kinds of patients seek labiaplasty for a better quality of life, in multiple areas. It can be disheartening and bothersome if a woman feels she cannot function properly without being constantly uncomfortable. Labiaplasty surgery is often more than just cosmetic “appearances”, it’s about being comfortable in your body.
On the other side of the spectrum, some women are concerned with how their labia looks and seek to revise it. Patients seeking surgery may feel embarrassed during intimate moments, unhappy with any asymmetry or enlargement, or feel self-conscious when wearing certain clothing like swimwear. These concerns are completely valid and more common than people realize, impacting women emotionally.
Many patients come to me explaining that they avoid certain social situations, intimacy, or specific clothing because of this part of their body. Sometimes these concerns go on for years before women consider labiaplasty as an option. No woman wants to feel like she cannot enjoy her life to its fullest potential, especially not because of negative opinions towards her body. Labiaplasty gives many women their life back and is an extremely empowering procedure. It helps women to regain control and find a newfound confidence in themselves.
Labiaplasty is one of my all-time favorite surgical procedures, not only because of the discomfort it reduces and elegant results it produces, but because of the feedback I receive from patients. Women excitedly tell me time and time again how this short procedure changed their lives!
At Temmen Plastic Surgery, we have a straightforward process for booking any kind of surgery.
Your surgical journey starts with phone call to our office. My team will effortlessly guide you through scheduling your consultation, obtain some basic health information, and answer any initial questions.
When you come into our Tampa office for your initial consultation, you will be warmly welcomed by our all-female team. Each woman is trained to make you feel at home and comfortable in our office, helping answer any questions you may have about the process.
During your consultation we will outline your goals, concerns, and timeline for surgery. I will perform a physical exam to determine if you are a good candidate, and then create a personalized surgical plan tailored to you. My team and I are eager to answer every question you may have, from financials to medications.
I prioritize the wellbeing of my patients and want to ensure you feel respected, informed, and heard during the entire process.
Once we have a surgical plan in place and you feel ready, we will schedule your labiaplasty procedure. I typically perform these procedures on Fridays, in office, for your convenience and recovery timing. The surgery takes about one hour, done under local anesthesia, and patients can go home the same day.
Labiaplasty is performed as an outpatient procedure in our Tampa office, meaning you go home the same day. I perform the surgery in the very same place that patients come for their consult, pre-op, and post-op, providing a comfortable and familiar luxury experience.
As for what to expect on surgery day, the process is seamless and simple. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia, meaning you will be awake but completely numb for the surgery. Patients enjoy listening to their favorite music, podcast, or chatting with me and my surgical team!
The surgery itself takes about one hour, making it a relatively quick procedure. During this hour, I precisely remove any excess tissue and reshape it to create a natural, balanced result. This may be done via liposuction, direct surgical excision, or a combination of both. Based on the patient’s surgical plan established in their pre-op, I work with the patient to determine the best course of action that realistically meets their goals.
As for scarring, I place the labiaplasty scar on the inside of the labia, away from the vaginal orifice. This ensures no painful intercourse or irritation around the scar and helps it to properly heal.
After the surgery is complete, patients are free to drive themselves home the same day, if they are not taking any narcotic medication. Since the procedure is done under local anesthesia, this makes the recovery easier and less of a disruption for patients.
Recovery form labiaplasty surgery is very manageable, as it is a quick surgery and done under local anesthesia. My patients tend to heal with little to no complications, and rave about the east of the entire healing process. They find healing to be much easier than anticipated and can return to their normal life relatively quick.
In the first few days’ post-operation, patients will experience mild swelling, soreness, and some discomfort. Patients typically tend to rest over the weekend, to let their bodies amply heal.
Most patients return to work by Monday (3 days following surgery) feeling great. As for restrictions post-surgery, patients must abstain from sexual activity for 6 weeks, they may return to light activity by 3 weeks, and regular exercise by 6 weeks. Abiding by post-operative instructions are crucial to the healing process and ensuring a successful result.
No. When performed correctly by an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon, no loss of sensation should occur. This is one of the most important questions patients ask me, as it is a major concern for many.
A labiaplasty procedure only concerns the removal of superficial tissue, meaning the deeper, nerve dense structures are avoided entirely- and no loss of sensation should occur. Many of my female patients in fact report less pain during sex and an overall improved/more pleasurable sexual experience.
There is no “perfect” criterion for a labiaplasty candidate, however, you may be a good fit if you:
If you are considering labiaplasty please do not hesitate to contact our office and set up a complimentary phone call and consultation with Dr. Traci Temmen. Our goal at Temmen Plastic Surgery is not only to enhance your natural beauty and create your most confident self but make you a part of our family.
Traci Temmen, M.D.
Female, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
3312 Henderson Blvd, Suite #201, Tampa, FL, 33609
