One of the most important decisions you’ll make concerning your labiaplasty procedure is which plastic surgeon to work with. You might have certain personal preferences in mind, like working with a top female plastic surgeon, but it’s also crucial that you know which other qualifications and characteristics to look for.
Whatever you do, don’t make these all too common mistakes when searching for the best female plastic surgeon for your labiaplasty.
Mistake #1: Not Checking Credentials
The very first credential you should check for is board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. This ensures that your plastic surgeon has completed rigorous medical schooling, testing and residency programs.
It’s also not a bad idea to do a little online research and see what other people have to say about this particular plastic surgeon. These days, there are plenty of review sites that make it quick and easy to find out what a professional’s reputation is like.
Finally, choose a top female plastic surgeon who has experience with labiaplasty. During your consultation, ask how many labiaplasties she’s performed in the past, and ask to see before and after pictures.
Mistake #2: Not Knowing Who Will Be Performing Your Labiaplasty
Some larger practices might have several plastic surgeons on staff at any given time. Even if this is the case, you should know exactly which one will be performing your labiaplasty, and this is the person with whom you should have your consultation and pre-op visit.
If there’s any question about which surgeon will be there on the day of your labiaplasty, schedule another consultation elsewhere.
Mistake #3: Feeling Pressured
Many women choose to add other cosmetic gynecology procedures to their labiaplasty, such as a clitoral hood reduction or mons pubis liposuction. While it’s perfectly fine to ask about these options and discuss them with your plastic surgeon ahead of time, you should never feel pressured or persuaded to add anything to your procedure.
Mistake #4: Bargain Shopping
Sifting through the bargain bin for a new pair of shoes might be a great buy. But you shouldn’t be bargain shopping for things like your surgical cosmetic procedure. Unfortunately, the “too good to be true” offers are usually always just that, and you’ll end up paying for them one way or another in the long run.
Your best bet is to choose your plastic surgeon based on her credentials, track record and how comfortable you feel with her, rather than only looking at the price tag. Many practices offer financing solutions to help make your labiaplasty as affordable as possible, so discuss those options during your consultation if you’re working within a particular budget.
If your labiaplasty is deemed medically necessary, insurance might cover some or all of the cost.
Mistake #5: Not Asking Questions
Choosing your labiaplasty plastic surgeon is a big decision, so take your time and do a little planning before your consultation. Write down a list of questions that you want to ask, and don’t be shy about running through the entire list during your visit. Just a few questions that you may want to ask are:
- Am I a good candidate for labiaplasty?
- Would you recommend labia majora reduction, labia minora reduction or both?
- Which labiaplasty techniques do you perform, and which do you recommend for me?
- Where will the surgery take place, and is it an inpatient or outpatient procedure?
- What type of anesthesia will be used?
- What can I do to prepare for my labiaplasty?
- What can I expect during recovery?
Dr. Jennifer Harrington is a board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon and an adjunct professor at the University of Minnesota. Harrington Plastic Surgery is pleased to offer the most advanced cosmetic and reconstructive techniques performed by a highly specialized all-female team of board-certified plastic surgeons and professional staff.
