What is Labiaplasty?

Labiaplasty means reshaping of the inner genital lips. This procedure on its own does not address excess skin at the clitoris (=clitoral hooding), enlarged or lax outer lips or the introitus. Additional procedures are necessary to treat these problems.

What are the reasons for having a Labiaplasty?

This is being done for cosmetic reasons, embarrassment or physical problems. Cosmetic concerns involve shape, visibility, colour or asymmetry. The inner lips can be entrapped or irritated during intercourse. There can be interference with tight clothes or swimsuits. Sports such as aerobics, bike-riding or horse-riding can be difficult with prominent lips.

How is Labiaplasty done? 

The three main surgical methods are wedge excision, straight transection and de-epithelialisation. Wedge excision is my preferred surgical choice. It involves “V”-shaped removal of a prominent segment of the labium. This usually gives the best cosmetic result. It can lead to some minor loss of sensation. Straight transection of the edge(=Trim) is surgically simple but can lead to scarring and unfavourable cosmetic results. De-epithelialisation involves removing a small part of the inner lining and is sometimes used for small amounts of labial excess. This method is best for preserving sensation but can cause some deformation and a visible colour step of the labium.

What Anaesthesia is used? 

The operation can be done under local anaesthetic which freezes the area or under general anaesthetic where an anesthetist puts you asleep. 

Where is the operation done? 

Local anaesthesia procedures can be done in a sterile outpatient setting. General anaesthesia requires hospital admission and surgery in an operating theatre. 

How long does the procedure take? 

Usually up to 60 minutes 

What is the recovery? 

The local anaesthetic lasts a few hours and over the counter painkillers such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen are recommended afterwards. Icepacks wrapped in a towel are helpful as well. 

Car driving and work can be resumed after 3-4 days 

Intercourse and exercise are possible after 4-6 weeks 

Most of the healing process has finished by 6-9 months 

What complications can occur? 

Complications include bleeding, infection, scarring, dehiscence, urinary retention, pain, irritation, numbness and cosmetic problems, need for further surgery. 

What can be done to optimize the healing process? 

After surgery an antibiotic ointment can be applied to the wound for a few days until the wound is dry. For the first 7 days the wound should be cleaned with running water only. No soap, shower gel or ointment should be used, and manual interference should be avoided. After 7 days the wound can be washed with chemicals and regular massage with ointment can be done to improve scarring. 

General measures involve drinking enough fluids, protein-rich diet (Meat…), Vitamin-C (Kiwis, lemons…) and getting enough fresh air. Smoking should be completely avoided in the weeks leading up to and following surgery since it can increase the complication risk 2-3 fold. Medical conditions such as diabetes should be optimized.