Labiaplasty

labiaplastyGenital structures, like others areas of anatomy such as noses, ears and breasts will vary from one person to the next. While there is a wide range of so-called “normal”, only you can decide whether the appearance, size, shape or arrangement of a structure pleases you, irrespective of what someone else feels is “normal”. The choice to seek surgical alteration is yours alone and while advice and a frank discussion of your options is part of our normal consultative practice, no attempt will be made to convince you that you should have surgery.

Women choose labiaplasty for many reasons, including genital pain, cosmetic reasons or to enhance sexual satisfaction. Overly large labia minora and labia majora (the inner and outer labial folds of the female gentalia) can cause both intimate embarrassment and physical discomfort.

The good news is that these conditions can be corrected functionally and cosmetically by a simple operation which trims away the excess tissue. Plastic surgeons using fine instruments and sutures get excellent results.

 

Some women have a foreskin hiding the clitoris that reduces sensitivity during sex. This can be reduced effectively during labiaplasty. Another popular option is to have a ‘vaginoplasty’ or tightening of the back wall of the vagina done at the same time, or in combination with another surgery.

Labiaplasty usually takes about an hour under local anaesthsia with sedation, or a light general anaesthetic plus local anaesthetic (for post-operative comfort), on an outpatient basis. Any ‘extras’ that increase the length of the surgery will increase the cost. Alternatively, you can ask for local anaesthetic with tablet sedation, which reduces the cost considerably compared to general anaesthesia. This works well for those who are psychologically robust!

During surgery: The exact surgical plan will depend on the individual patient’s wishes and physiology. Generally, if there is a finger-like projection of excess tissue, this can be removed by ‘wedge’ excision with a short vertical scar. If the whole length of the labia is enlarged, a lengthwise piece of tissue may be removed – preserving at least 5mm of the inner lips. After carefully stopping any bleeding points, closure is done with inner and outer layers of absorbable sutures. Lastly, antibiotic ointment and a pad are applied.

Although complications after such surgery are very uncommon, just like any surgical procedure, labiaplasty and functional vaginal surgery are not without potential risks. These, together with any specific concerns or questions you may have, will be fully discussed with you at the time of your consultation. The general risks include infection, bleeding and scarring. More specific risks associated with this surgery include possible changes in sensation, pain and anxiety although the vast majority of well-prepared patients have a problem-free postoperative course.