After a physical examination and review of your medical history, your goals and expectations will be discussed. A treatment plan will be developed, then the precise technique for your procedure can be determined. Your procedure may include the surgical reduction of the labia major (outer lips) or labia minor (inner lips) or both. Time in surgery is typically one to two hours. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, while you are numbed and awake. Sedation or general anesthesia is not necessary and adds significant cost, but is available for those that desire it. 

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During the procedure, the labia will be reduced and sculpted to achieve as close to the desired affect as possible. The appropriate incision location depends on many individual factors, including the configuration and texture of the labia. Dr. Edwards will then suture the incision closed with dissolvable stitches. 

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RECOVERY: 

The labia and surrounding area may be bruised and swollen. Swelling is worst the first few days and typically lasts for several weeks. Topical and oral medications can be administered to reduce pain. Oral antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce the risk of infection. Severe pain or abdominal symptoms should be reported to Dr. Edwards immediately. After the surgery, activity will consist of restriction and heavy exercise for 4 weeks, restriction of sexual activity from 6-8 weeks, and no tampon use for 10 days. The final appearance will be evident in three to six months.

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COMPLICATIONS & RISK:

Complications are a possibility with any medical procedure. The risk can be reduced by carefully following pre-operative and post-operative instructions. One of the most common, but infrequent complications is temporary numbness or infection. Other risks include excess scar tissue build up (appearing as lumps on the treated area), a hematoma (break in blood vessel causing localized blood filled area or blood clot), puckering or creases of the skin, or sensitivity loss in the treated area. However, the treated area does not play a part in sexual sensation. Some patients may experience asymmetry between the inner and outer labia lips. There may also be variances in pigmentation, thickness, and uneven edges of the labia.