Q I’m embarrassed to ask you this question, but I have a very personal problem. I love working out at the gym, but I feel very self-conscious in my tights because my private parts seem to “stick out.” I also feel an uncomfortable rubbing sensation when I am running on the treadmill. I don’t have any problem with sexual intimacy, but I don’t like to walk naked around my boyfriend. Is there anything to help this?

A. There absolutely is! In fact, it is one of the fastest-growing procedures in plastic surgery. The procedure is called labiaplasty, and the goal is to enhance the aesthetic look of the external female genitalia. The procedure is not performed directly to enhance sexual enjoyment, but in many cases, the psychological benefits associated with a labiaplasty do improve a patient’s sexual life.

The problem that you most likely have is that your labia minora (inner lips) is protruding past your labia majora (outer lips). A simple excision of the enlarged labia minora allows the overlying labia majora to cover it, giving a more youthful look. This can be performed under local anesthesia and it only takes about 60 to 90 minutes.

With age or simply because of genetics, the labia majora might start looking deflated (volume loss), and many patients would also benefit from enhancing the outer lips with fat grafting. The fat is harvested from your abdomen or your inner thighs and it is then injected with microcanulas into the labia majora.

Patients are extremely satisfied with the results, and it is an incredible feeling to see them regain their confidence.

Dr. Carlos Wolf is a partner in Miami Plastic Surgery and is board certified. Email your questions to him at Cwolf@miamiplasticsurgery.com.