In a world that encourages women to embrace their bodies, it’s still surprisingly rare to hear open, honest conversations about how those bodies change—and how that change can deeply impact our comfort, confidence, and sense of self. For many women, the shape or size of their labia can lead to persistent irritation, discomfort during exercise or intimacy, and self-consciousness that impacts everyday life. At Maia Plastic Surgery in Northern Virginia, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Munique Maia offers labiaplasty as a thoughtful, personalized option for women seeking to feel more at ease in their bodies physically and emotionally.
What Is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to reduce the size or reshape the labia minora (the inner folds of skin surrounding the vaginal opening). While the size and shape of labia vary widely among women, some may feel self-conscious about asymmetry, elongated tissue, or excess skin that can cause discomfort in tight clothing, during physical activity, or during sex.
Performed under local anesthesia, labiaplasty with Dr. Maia is an in-office procedure that typically lasts about an hour, with minimal downtime and virtually invisible scarring. Patients are often surprised by how manageable the experience is, and how transformative the results can be.
“People think ‘oh, it’s vanity,’ but it’s much more than that,” says Dr. Maia. “This is a functional procedure that can improve quality of life and restore confidence.”
Why Women Choose Labiaplasty
There is no one-size-fits-all reason for choosing labiaplasty. Some women experience physical discomfort from enlarged labia, such as irritation from clothing, difficulty maintaining hygiene, or pain during exercise and sex. Others simply wish to restore or enhance their appearance after life events like childbirth, weight changes, or aging.
Modern fashion, grooming trends, and body awareness have also made women more attuned to the aesthetics of their intimate areas, but that doesn’t make the decision superficial. For many, this procedure is about reclaiming confidence and comfort.
One Patient’s Journey at 43
Dr. Maia recently sat down with a 43-year-old patient, just four weeks out from her labiaplasty surgery, to talk about her decision and recovery. Her story is one that many women will relate to—but few talk about openly.
“Over the years I’ve gone through weight fluctuations, IVF, childbirth—my vagina completely changed,” she shared. “I hadn’t worn a swimsuit in years. Leggings were out of the question. Even jeans were uncomfortable. Sex became difficult. Every day, that extra skin was bothering me.”
Her reasons weren’t purely aesthetic—they were deeply rooted in how she experienced her own body.
“I just wanted to restore it to what it was before. This wasn’t about someone else seeing it. It was about how I felt living in my own skin.”
Her recovery, she says, has been nothing short of empowering.
“My experience was like an 11 out of 10. I felt fully prepared. The pain level was minimal, and the peace of finally addressing it—it brought a kind of excitement. I’m dreaming of putting on a bathing suit again after five years.”
She encourages other women not to suffer in silence.
“Don’t be scared to address it. This is something many women go through. You’re not broken—you’re restoring what’s shifted. And you’re going to get so much of your life back.”
What to Expect
Consultation: Whether you choose to meet virtually or in person, your consultation with Dr. Maia or her patient consultant takes place in a private, supportive setting with an all-female team. During this time, your concerns will be heard with care, your questions answered thoroughly, and together you’ll explore whether labiaplasty is the right option for you.
Procedure: Performed under local anesthesia, the surgery typically takes about an hour. Dr. Maia uses meticulous techniques to reduce or reshape the labia while keeping scars discreet.
Recovery: Most patients return to work within 3–4 days and resume normal activities within 1–2 weeks. Exercise and sexual activity should be postponed for about 4–6 weeks, or until Dr. Maia gives the green light.
The Benefits of Labiaplasty
- Increased physical comfort during daily activities and intimacy
- Discreet scarring and natural-looking results
- Restored confidence in form-fitting clothing and swimwear
- Improved hygiene and reduced irritation
- Enhanced self-esteem and peace of mind
Why Choose Dr. Maia
Dr. Munique Maia is a Harvard-trained, board-certified plastic surgeon with over 15 years of experience. Her skill, compassion, and attention to detail make her one of the most sought-after surgeons for vaginal rejuvenation procedures in the Washington, DC metro area. As a woman herself, she brings not only expertise but deep empathy to every consultation.
- Voted Top Doctor by Arlington Magazine
- Recognized by Modern Luxury and Washingtonian as a Top Plastic Surgeon
- All-female staff in a private, welcoming environment
If you’ve been silently struggling with discomfort or self-consciousness, it’s time to consider labiaplasty as an option. Contact us today at Maia Plastic Surgery in Tysons Corner, VA, to schedule your private consultation with Dr. Maia or one of her patient consultants.
Call or text (703) 574-4500
Serving Northern Virginia and the greater Washington, DC metro area
maiaplasticsurgery.com
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8100 Boone Boulevard Suite 730 Tysons Corner
Tysons, VA 22182