Introduction | Liposuction | Face | Tummy Tuck | Breast | Male Breast | Butt Lift | Eyelid & Eyebrow | Fat Transfer | Vagina | Laser Skin Care | Injectable
Introduction | FAQ | Illustration | Before & After Photos
What is Designer Laser Vaginoplasty (DLV)? Why do women want to have this done?
Designer Laser Vaginoplasty is a group of cosmetic procedures that enhance and beautify the external vaginal structures. The most common of these procedures reduces the size of the Labia Minora (The inner vaginal lips). Some women have experienced trauma to these structures at the time of delivery that often make the Labia irregular. Other women were born with large labia. In either situation women may experience discomfort wearing certain types of clothes, or the may experience pain and irritation with intercourse, or they may be self-conscious about the appearance of these structures.
Is this considered a cosmetic procedure or a medically necessary procedure?
Designer Laser Vaginoplasty (DLV) are considered elective, cosmetic procedures and are not covered by insurance.
How long does the surgery take?
The times will very depending on whether one procedure is being performed or a combination of procedures. Generally 1-2 hours.
How soon after the surgery can I return to work?
Depending on the type of work you do, most women can return to work within in a week. Strenuous activity should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks in some cases.
When can I resume sexual intercourse?
Generally this will be 6 weeks. The same is true for Tampon usage.
Is this really painful surgery?
As with all surgery there will be some discomfort. However the techniques of the surgery minimize the discomfort. I use long acting local anesthetics that greatly reduce the amount of initial postoperative discomfort. Most women describe the pain as mild. We will provide you with appropriate pain medication for your comfort.
I do not live in the Twin Cities. Can you make arrangements for out-of-town clients?
Dr. Shu’s office can certainly accommodate your situation. Depending on the procedure and your travel distance you may need to plan for 2-4 days in the Twin Cities.
Is this new?
Great question! Traditional labiaplasty has been performed by some plastic physicians and gynecologists. In 1990, Dr. David Matlock combined the basic labiaplasty procedure with modern cosmetic surgical techniques and the improved healing power of the Laser to develop DLV. So the answer is no and yes.
Are women who have not had children candidates?
We are all different. Because of anatomical variation some women experience these problems without having had children. They are candidates for LVR/DLV also.
What type of anesthesia is used?
Dr. Shu uses the long lasting Pudendal nerve block with local anesthesia plus IV sedation.
Can designer laser vaginoplasty be combined with other cosmetic surgical procedures?
Yes, Dr. Shu can combine designer laser vaginoplasty with most cosmetic surgical procedures such as breast, face, eyelid, or tummy tuck surgery.
My inner vaginal lips (labia minora) are too long. Can I have them reduced?
The labia minora can be aesthetically sculptured to your specifications with laser reduction labioplasty.
Do I have to be a patient of the practice to have any of these procedures?
Dr. Shu is happy to offer these services to any woman who feels they would benefit from Designer Vaginoplasty.