Enlarged Labia

Labial hypertrophy is the medical term for enlarged labia. This is a concern that affects the female form. The labia are found in the vulva (the external genitalia), and are more commonly known as the ‘lips’ or ‘flaps’. There are two sets of labia: the outer labia (labia majora), and the inner labia (labia minora). Enlarged labia can affect either set of vaginal lips and can feel uncomfortable, especially when wearing tight jeans. They can also twist, chaff, catch on underwear, and can be visible through swimsuits and yoga pants. When enlarged labia are visible, it can lead to embarrassment and self-consciousness. It’s common for the labia to be naturally asymmetric, with one side often being thicker, larger or longer than the other. This difference is generally quite minor, and for many women, it will go unnoticed. Enlarged labia can occur by way of genetics, and may be something that a woman has lived with for some time. However, it can also develop later in life, but she shouldn’t worry as it doesn’t usually indicate a medical issue.

There are a variety of causes for enlarged labia. An increase in oestrogen (the dominant female hormone), such as during puberty, can lead to a growth in the labia. Pregnancy sees an increase in blood flow to the genitals, causing this area to feel heavy. This feeling of an enlarged labia will often resolve after giving birth. Ageing can also lead to the perception of an enlarged labia. This factor is usually down to the changing structure of the skin, opposed to an overgrowth of tissue. In the same way loose and sagging skin develops on the face and body, the skin at the genitals can also lose volume and become stretched. This can then make the labia longer and hang lower than it once did.

At Chester Cosmetic Surgery, Miss Breahna can perform a labiaplasty to reduce the amount of skin and tissue on the vaginal lips. Treating this concern not only helps to improve the appearance of the labia to regain a woman’s confidence, it can also get rid of any discomfort, bulges in clothing, sensitivity, hygiene concerns and irritation.