What is Labiaplasty? : This is What You Need to Know

Labiaplasty is a labia minora surgery or labia majora surgery that reshapes and reduces the size of the labia minora (inner vaginal lips) or labia majora (outer vaginal lips). This vaginal rejuvenation procedure is performed for both cosmetic and medical reasons, helping women feel more comfortable and confident in their bodies.

Whether addressing labia aesthetic concerns, discomfort from tight clothing, or functional issues, labiaplasty has gained popularity as a minimally invasive way to improve physical and emotional well-being.

If you’re considering labiaplasty surgery, here at Breast & Body Clinic, we believe that it’s essential to understand the benefits of labiaplasty, potential risks of labiaplasty, the labiaplasty recovery timeline, and what results to expect.

What is the Purpose of a Labiaplasty?

The primary goal of a labiaplasty is to enhance comfort and confidence by addressing labia aesthetic concerns and reducing any physical discomfort caused by excess tissue. This procedure can help:

• Improve comfort during physical activities.
• Improved sexual drive.
• Reduce irritation and chafing.
• Enhance self-confidence.
• Allow for greater ease when wearing fitted clothing.

For some, labiaplasty is part of a larger mummy makeover, which may also include breast augmentation, liposuction, or a tummy tuck.

How is Labiaplasty Performed?

Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure designed to address concerns related to the shape of the labia, whether for aesthetic or functional reasons. The procedure typically involves reducing excess labial tissue in either the inner labia (labia minora) or outer labia (labia majora) to improve comfort and appearance.

Consultation

Before undergoing labiaplasty, a thorough pre-operative consultation is performed by a qualified plastic surgeon to assess whether the procedure is right for you. During the consultation, your surgeon will:

• Discuss your medical history to rule out any conditions that may affect surgery.
• Evaluate the shape of the labia and any concerns regarding excess skin or discomfort.
• Explain the differences between a trim procedure (removing the outer edge of the inner labia) and a wedge procedure (removing a central section of tissue while maintaining the natural edges).
• Outline expected labiaplasty results, recovery, and post-operative care.

This step ensures that your surgery is personalised to your needs, whether the goal is reducing discomfort, preventing urinary tract infections, or improving symmetry.

The Surgery

• The surgical procedure is typically performed under local and general anesthesia so you don’t feel pain during the procedure.
• The surgeon carefully trims and reshapes excess labial tissue, removing unwanted folds while maintaining a natural appearance.
• Dissolvable stitches are used to close the incisions, minimising visible scarring.
• The entire cosmetic procedure generally takes 1 to 2 hours.

This is usually an outpatient procedure and patients are usually discharged the same day and provided with detailed post-surgical care instructions to ensure optimal healing.

What is the Recovery Process Like?

Following labiaplasty surgery, proper post-operative care is essential for a smooth recovery. Patients are advised to follow specific guidelines to prevent complications and promote healing.

Labiaplasty Recovery Timeline

First Few Days:

• Swelling and mild discomfort peak.
• Patients should rest, apply ice packs, and wear loose clothing to reduce irritation.
• Pain relievers and prescribed medications can help with the healing process.

Weeks 1-2:

• Stitches begin to dissolve, and discomfort subsides.
• Patients should continue avoiding strenuous activities and excessive friction in the area.
• Some women may notice temporary sensitivity in the inner labia or outer labia, which will gradually improve.

Weeks 4-6:

• Most swelling is significantly reduced.
• Patients can usually resume sexual activity and exercise.
• Any excess skin that appeared swollen will have settled.

3 Months & Beyond:

• The final labiaplasty results become visible.
• Any residual swelling fully subsides.

During this period, it’s essential to avoid wearing tight clothing, engaging in sexual intercourse, or exposing the surgical site to unnecessary pressure.