A labiaplasty is a plastic surgery procedure performed to decrease your labia minor, the fleshy lips on both sides of your vagina. The excess skin causes discomfort during sex or exercise. It also may limit the clothes you can wear, such as certain bathing suits, skinny jeans or leggings.

Also known as a labia reduction, the procedure is considered an elective surgery for most women. Even though it may significantly affect your self-image, you usually require a valid medical consideration to have the procedure covered by insurance. For example, needing to repair your labia minor torn following a pregnancy and delivery could be grounds for insurance coverage.

With a labiaplasty, your gynecological surgeon can decrease and reshape your labia if they are asymmetrical or larger than normal.