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Every vulva is different. Some are petite and tucked in, others lush and full, but many are somewhere in between the wide (and normal!) range of variation. No two look the same.
Understanding your anatomy is a first step toward feeling at home in your body. What do the labia actually do? Why in the world do they change? And what can you do to feel more comfortable with what’s going on down there?
At Aayla, we believe that when something about your anatomy doesn’t feel right – physically or emotionally – you deserve to understand your options.
The Labia Minora
The labia minora (the “inner lips”) are a delicate and important part of your body with a dual role in vaginal health and sexual function. They act as the body’s first line of defense, shielding the vaginal canal from friction, bacteria, and dryness. Composed of many tiny folds, they are saturated with nerve endings that encourage this part of the anatomy to swell and become more responsive with sexual arousal.
Over time and with pregnancy, hormone fluctuations, and menopause, these feminine structures can start to lose their “oomph.” When the tissue becomes elongated, asymmetric, or simply more prominent than feels comfortable, it can spell trouble rather than pleasure and optimal functioning. For many women, enlarged or protruding labia minora can become a cosmetic concern, but more importantly, they can become an uncomfortable lifestyle disruption.
That disruption presents itself in many different ways: pinching or rubbing in leggings, swimsuits, or fitted underwear; feeling like the tissue is too lax; soreness during exercise, biking, or sex; visible bulging underneath clothing; or even self-consciousness that steadily chips away at confidence. Many women begin to avoid intercourse altogether, which takes a toll on the relationships they have not just with their partners, but with themselves.
We’re here to let you know you’re not alone and that there are solutions.
The Labia Majora
Made of thicker tissue and fat, the labia majora (the “outer lips”) provide cushioning and protection for the clitoris, urethra, and vaginal opening. They’re also essentially the “frame” of the vulva, giving the entire structure a balanced appearance.
Again, with pregnancy, weight changes, and hormonal shifts, they are especially vulnerable to volume loss. With the fluctuations women experience, they can flatten, sag, appear wrinkled, become asymmetrical, or lose their natural fullness. We’ve heard women describe the experience as feeling exposed or less feminine, and noticing more friction in clothing or with sex.
Even if everything else functions and feels fine, for many women it feels like a sense of vitality is lost when the labia majora appear “deflated.” The mismatch between how a woman feels on the inside and what she sees on the outside can affect body confidence more than people expect.
Beyond the emotive aspect, when the labia majora loses elasticity and fullness, some of the main issues women can experience are pain and irritation, especially during intercourse. Sexual wellness is part of a bigger picture of health, and sexual dissatisfaction can erode overall wellbeing.
But there’s something you can do about it.
Anatomical Roulette No More
Vulvar aesthetics are approached with the same precision and respect for anatomy as other aesthetic facial or body treatments. The roulette your body is playing with your sexual health does not have to be a secret suffering or something to “just live with.” More importantly, the options available reflect your goals, and not someone else’s version of “normal.”
Scarless Labiaplasty
Not interested in a surgical procedure? That’s okay. FemTite is a minimally invasive treatment that uses radiofrequency (RF) energy to tighten and shrink labial and vulvar tissue. It’s similar to the devices used to tighten skin on the face and body, and with carefully controlled heat applied both internally and externally, the tissue shrinks immediately, tightens as collagen and elastin rebuild, and takes on a more toned texture and appearance.
RF can be used on the labia minora and the labia majora, with:
- No incisions
- No sutures
- Minimal downtime (usually 1–3 days before returning to work)
- Only pinhole-size entry points
- Local anesthesia for a calm, comfortable experience
- Results that look natural
- Less swelling and faster recovery than surgery
For women who have mild-to-moderate elongation, want tightening or smoothing, prefer subtle improvement without surgery, and want a refreshed appearance with minimal disruption to a (likely) hectic schedule, this is ideal.
Surgical Labiaplasty
For women who have labia minora with significant elongation, asymmetry, or protrusion, surgical labiaplasty can be more restorative. In this case, the excess tissue needs more than tightening.
There are two primary surgical techniques, each designed to honor your natural anatomy while reducing excess tissue.
- The Trim Method: This technique removes the excess tissue along the edge and reshapes the entire contour. The suture line follows the natural border of the labia. It’s a commonly chosen approach when the labia are elongated or prominent, when darker edges want to be removed, a smoother top-to-bottom contour is preferred, or when both sides require reduction.
- The Wedge Method: By removing a triangular section and bringing the tissue together, the wedge technique maintains the natural shape while reducing protrusion. This method preserves the natural edges and pigmentation of the labia, creates a less visible suture line, and is typically used when only one side needs correction.
Whether you prefer nonsurgical tightening or surgical reshaping, the most important part of the process is personalized care. Every woman has her own vision of what feels comfortable and looks right.
One of the most misunderstood aspects of labiaplasty is that women often think their situation is “much worse” than it is. During your consultation, we’ll evaluate the amount of excess tissue; your level of discomfort; your goals for shape, symmetry, and appearance; and which technique will give you the most natural, beautiful result. Your anatomy and preferences guide everything.
At Aayla, we want you to know that you do have options that respect your intimate wellbeing. You don’t have to live with discomfort, self-consciousness, or the feeling that something “just isn’t right.”
Dr. Shaya Taghechian offers the most advanced techniques to help you feel more like yourself again. With extensive training in urologic, surgical, and cosmetic genital procedures, you receive care that is safe, precise, and beautifully tailored to your anatomy. Most patients heal quickly, feel comfortable during their treatment, and describe the results as life-changing.
If you’re ready to explore what’s possible, we’re here to guide you – gently, expertly, and without judgment. Your comfort is our priority, and your confidence is our mission.
