Since I do a lot of labiaplasty and vaginoplasty procedures, I get more than my share of patients who debate endlessly about whether the procedure is right for them or not. I’m quite sure that the doctor who does appendectomies doesn’t hear as much debating! So just how do you decide if the procedure–or any other plastic surgery procedure–is right for you?

Although it’s easy to find information that will list the risks, benefits and side effects of these procedures for you, ultimately it’s going to be your call as to whether or not you should agree to get the procedure done. You’ll need to consider both the personal factors as well as medical issues before you come to your final decision. As you mull over the matter, it’s important for you to have an experienced surgeon who can answer any questions you have regarding your procedure. Consultations are a critical part of the vaginoplasty and labiaplasty processes, and any reputable doctor will be happy to connect you with resources to help you make up your mind, and will give you the time you need to make your decision.

When the time comes for a proper medical evaluation, you don’t necessarily need your first consult from a plastic surgeon; your family doctor or attending surgeon will work just fine. Your physical condition will be key to reducing the risks involved in the surgery and to help you make a quick recovery from the surgery. Still, remember that the factors you’ll have to consider will vary according to the procedure you’re getting done. A person getting a labiaplasty, for instance, doesn’t necessarily have to worry about a family history of lung cancer. Some other operations, like weight loss surgery, will only be possible after you’ve explored other options for achieving your ideal weight; only then will the doctor agree to operate (If she’s a reputable one, that is).

Still, there are a few common denominators regarding a proper assessment of your health. To receive a vaginoplasty or labiaplasty, you should be 18 or older. You should also be in good health overall and not have serious medical conditions such as extremely high blood pressure or heart disease. Hemophilia might also disqualify you from one of the procedures. Speak with your doctor about what conditions he feels disqualify you.

Most labiaplasty patients simply want to have self-confidence that results from looking their best. Taking advantage of a surgical procedure to correct the appearance of the labia minora / majora helps a woman feel better in ways that the rest of us can’t understand. However, be sure to be realistic in your expectations, and along with the benefits, understand the risks involved.

For many patients, the allure and glamor of plastic surgery assumes a strong emotional appeal. Be on guard, though, that you don’t start falling into plastic surgery addiction. If you feel you’ve reached that point, you should seek counseling. Plastic surgery procedures such as labiaplasty are great if used for the right reason. The key is to maintain a healthy balance in your mind about what will be achieved.

Dr. Helen Colen is a board certified plastic surgeon in Manhattan. Visit her blog for more information about vaginoplasty and labiaplasty

[tags]plastic surgeon, plastic surgery, labiaplasty, vaginoplasty[/tags]