Labiaplasty ? it's an odd-sounding word, and one seldom spoken in public. Yet labiaplasty is neither shameful nor funny; it is instead an important and highly necessary form of female genital cosmetic surgery, and one that has changed the lives of many women for the better.

But what is labiaplasty? Simply put, labiaplasty is a surgical procedure during which the size of the inner and/or outer vaginal lips is modified, either for cosmetic reasons or in order to repair damage due to trauma from childbirth, injury, disease or birth defect. In most cases, the size of the labia is reduced. Vaginoplasty, the surgical rejuvenation of the vagina itself, is sometimes performed along with labiaplasty in order to counter the effects of aging, damage, or malformation of the genital area.

Labiaplasty is not generally performed for reasons of aesthetics alone. In many cases, the patient elects the procedure due to real medical problems resulting from oversized labia. Labia that are too large can cause physical pain during the course of ordinary activities, for example, or when certain types of clothing are worn. Difficult or painful intercourse can also result from over-large labia, with accompanying psychological side effects for both the patient and her sexual partner. Generally speaking, labiaplasty is indicated only in cases involving sexual dysfunction, pain or a ridicule due to large, asymmetrical, malformed or misshapen labia.

The labiaplastic procedure itself bears a considerable amount of risk. Painful intercourse due to physical or psychological complications of the surgery is possible. The formation of scar tissue may also occur, which can lead to the loss or modification of sensation and to possible problems in childbirth. The procedure is complex, requiring the expertise of an experienced surgeon specializing in labiaplasty ?a specialty procedure not offered at all hospitals and surgical practices. And, as with all major surgical procedures, the chance of bleeding, swelling, and secondary infection exists with labiaplasty.

In recent years, cosmetic issues have been the driving force behind more and more labiaplasties. The desire of many women for perfection in body aesthetics ? a desire driven in large part by the entertainment and fashion media ? leads many to the door of the operating room on a quest for the ideal look ?down there?. Opponents of purely cosmetic labiaplasty disparage this motive, arguing that no such ideal look exists,

Despite its risks, labiaplasty is an effective means of correcting physical or psychological problems resulting from oversized labia. Those considering the procedure should begin by seeking out a variety of informed opinions on the topic, especially those which can only be provided by members of the medical profession. In addition to consulting with her primary care physician and any specialists recommended by him or her, the prospective patient should discuss her case with a board-certified plastic surgeon prior to making the decision to seek labiaplasty.