Genıtal Lıp Fıller
As with all skin tissues, when the body can no longer produce collagen in later years, thinning, sagging, wrinkles, and depressions can also be observed in the genital area due to aging. For this reason, fat tissue injection, also known as genital lip augmentation, is performed on the labia majora, which have lost their normal volume. Genital lip augmentation has gained significant popularity in recent years. The outer lips of the genital area are also called 'labium majus'. Therefore, genital lip augmentation is also referred to as 'labium majus injection' or 'labia majora augmentation'.
Why Do the Outer Genital Lips Sag?
Patients can resume their normal daily lives immediately after the procedure. Fat injection can be performed in an operating room under local or general anesthesia. Fat tissue is typically harvested from the abdominal area and injected into the labia majora.
With aging, the tissue of the labia majora loses its resilience, sags, and takes on a wrinkled appearance. This is often due to poor genetic collagen connective tissue. Smoking, alcohol consumption, certain skin diseases, chronic itching due to fungal infections, rapid weight gain and loss, chronic irritation, aging, and menopause can contribute to sagging in the labia majora. Genital lip augmentation aims to correct such sagging.
How Is Genital Lip Augmentation Performed?
Genital lip augmentation can be performed using hyaluronic acid fillers (rarely) or fat injection (more commonly).
As a filler material, a patient’s own fat tissue can be used, or a synthetic material called hyaluronic acid, which is FDA-approved for body filler procedures, may be used. If the patient's fat tissue is used, it is first harvested from areas such as the inner thigh or abdomen using liposuction, then specially processed before being injected into the targeted area. Depending on the scope of the procedure, it can be performed in an operating room or a clinic.
The procedure with hyaluronic acid fillers can be performed in a clinical setting with mild sedation, allowing for a quicker procedure. Patients can return to their normal daily activities immediately after the procedure. Fat injection, however, is performed under local or general anesthesia in an operating room. Fat is typically taken from the abdominal area and injected into the labia majora. After a few hours of rest, the patient can go home. Since dissolvable sutures are used, there is no need for suture removal or dressing.
Post-Procedure Considerations
Patients can resume their normal lives shortly after the procedure. The healing process in the treated area can take 7-10 days. Swelling is common in both types of injections, but it is more pronounced in fat injections. Sensitivity, swelling, and bruising are normal during the healing period. These symptoms are most noticeable in the first couple of days but do not significantly affect daily activities. Some patients may need a few days of rest, while others may immediately return to their normal routines. Wearing loose underwear and comfortable clothing for the first week can help reduce sensitivity.
Patients are prescribed antibiotics and painkillers after the procedure. Two days of rest at home is usually sufficient. It is advised to avoid saunas, baths, or excessive hot showers for the first week. Additionally, it is recommended to abstain from sexual intercourse for a month. Returning to intense physical activities such as sports and exercise should also be delayed for at least one month.
How Long Does Genital Lip Augmentation Last?
The longevity of genital lip augmentation varies depending on the technique used. If hyaluronic acid is used, results typically last around 7-10 months, depending on the patient. If autologous fat injection is used, meaning the patient’s own fat tissue is injected, at least 50% of the filler will be absorbed within the first six months. Therefore, in fat augmentation procedures, a larger amount of fat is initially injected to account for absorption over time.
Genital lip augmentation is a suitable surgical solution for individuals experiencing:
- Desire to engage in penetrative vaginal intercourse
- Vaginal sagging due to significant weight gain or loss
- Vaginal widening after intercourse
- Vaginal itching, burning, and irritation
- Labial sagging caused by menopause
- Light bleeding and pain after intercourse
- Lack of desire for sexual intercourse
- Difficulty urinating and burning sensation
For these individuals, labia majora augmentation is a suitable option and should be recommended by a doctor.
Genital Lip Augmentation in Istanbul
Why is genital lip augmentation performed? The outer genital lips, located outside the inner labia and covered with pubic hair, may experience sagging, wrinkles, and darkening with age, similar to other skin tissues.
For this reason, filler injections are performed in this area. This procedure has gained popularity in recent years and is now frequently preferred both worldwide and in Turkey.
With aging, skin tissue loses its resistance and is more likely to develop wrinkles. This condition is often associated with poor genetic collagen structure. Both genetic predisposition and environmental factors play a role.
Alcohol consumption, smoking, various skin diseases, fungal infections, chronic irritation, menopause, and aging can all contribute to sagging in the area. A professional and specialized intervention aims to correct these issues.
How Is Vaginal Labial Sagging Treated?
How is vaginal labial sagging treated? Many patients are curious about the details of the procedure. The primary goal of filler application is to restore a smoother and more youthful appearance to the area. Two main methods are commonly used for this procedure.
These methods include hyaluronic acid injection and fat injection. The first method aims to add volume through an injection, typically performed under local anesthesia, and lasts between 6 months and 1 year.
The second method, fat injection, involves harvesting fat tissue from areas such as the inner thigh, hips, or abdomen via liposuction. This fat is then processed and injected into the treated area to add volume. Approximately 50% of the injected fat is absorbed within six months, but the remaining tissue remains stable for many years.
Laser Method for Labia Majora
The laser method for labia majora is another option often considered. In some cases, instead of filler injections, laser treatments are used to tighten the area.
The laser increases collagen production in the area, improving skin elasticity and providing a firmer, more youthful appearance. Combining filler injections with laser treatments can offer even better results, both aesthetically and psychologically.
Post-Procedure Care for Genital Lip Augmentation
Post-procedure care is an important aspect of the treatment. Patients can return to their normal activities shortly after the procedure, but the healing process typically takes around 7-10 days.
Fat injections are generally preferred over other methods, though both types of injections may cause swelling. Bruising, swelling, and sensitivity are common parts of the healing process. Symptoms are most noticeable in the first few days, and some patients may need a short rest period.
Loose clothing and underwear should be worn during the first week. If antibiotics or painkillers are prescribed, they should be taken regularly.
Patients can resume their normal lives after two days of rest. However, for the first 7 days, hot baths, saunas, and steam rooms should be avoided. Sexual intercourse should be avoided for at least one month, and strenuous activities like exercise should be postponed for the same period.
Risks of Labia Majora Augmentation
Risks of labia majora augmentation should be assessed by a qualified doctor. If deemed suitable, the procedure carries minimal risks.
Following pre- and post-operative instructions carefully ensures a smooth recovery. Fat injections are generally safer since the patient's own tissue is used, minimizing rejection risks.
The goal of the procedure is to enhance the aesthetic and functional appearance of the area, contributing to both physical and psychological well-being.