A Closer Look at Central Wedge Labiaplasty

Over the course of a lifetime, any number of variables can impact the size and appearance of the labia. While some women develop a larger labia as they grow older and their hormones change, others are born with an enlarged labia minora. Unfortunately, that extra tissue can create a wide array of issues that many women would like to avoid. In addition to impacting a woman’s confidence, the extra tissue might also make it uncomfortable to exercise or wear tight clothing. If you are struggling with any of those issues, then you should take a closer look at central wedge labiaplasty surgery to see if that operation might be right for you.

Benefits of the Central Wedge Technique

The labiaplasty procedure can be carried out in many different ways, and a skilled surgeon will typically produce great results for their patients. That being said, the traditional labiaplasty procedure sometimes leads to a few complications that patients would like to avoid. In the past, labiaplasty surgery usually involved the removal of the outer crest of the labia minora. For some patients, that can be a great option if they are dealing with excess tissue, but too much of the crest might be removed as well. If that occurs, then the patient could struggle with discomfort, scarring, and other post-op complications. Those are just a few of the reasons why so many patients and their surgeons now prefer the central wedge technique.

Gary J. Alter, MD utilizes this technique because it minimizes a patient’s risk of a variety of unwanted issues following the procedure. Instead of removing the crest of the labia minora, Dr. Alter is able to excise a small wedge and then fold the edges back together. That greatly reduces a patient’s risk of post-op complications and typically creates a well-balanced appearance. In some situations, it can also be used to fix past labiaplasties that didn’t help patients achieve their goals.

Getting Ready for Your Operation

At least a few weeks before you plan on having this operation carried out, you will need to meet with Gary J. Alter, MD for your first consultation. That appointment is going to be the perfect opportunity to ask any questions that you have about the central wedge technique and discuss your overall goals. At the end of the operation, you and your surgeon can decide if you are a good candidate for the operation and set a date for your procedure. The procedure itself usually takes between one and two hours to complete, and you should be able to head home shortly after it is over. To prep for your procedure, you should try to stay as healthy as possible so that the recovery is quick and relatively comfortable. Your doctor will most likely suggest that you get plenty of rest, follow a healthy diet, and avoid all tobacco products.

When Will I See Results?

One of the biggest benefits of this operation is the fact that the results should be seen almost immediately. While there will most likely be some inflammation and swelling, those side effects usually disappear after a few weeks. When the side effects are completely gone, you will be able to resume all normal activities, and that includes exercising and intercourse. If the side effects linger for more than a few weeks, you must immediately schedule a follow-up appointment with your surgeon.