Labiaplasty - Labial Reduction

Enlarged or hypertrophic labia minora can be functionally or socially bothersome. The enlarged labia can have a protuberant and abnormal appearance that can be distressful. Enlargement of the labia minora may be caused by pregnancy and childbirth and other hormonal causes.

Local irritation, problems with personal hygiene, interference with sexual intercourse and discomfort during cycling, walking or sitting are indications for surgical reduction.

Labiaplasty or labial reduction involves a plastic surgical technique to reduce the large or uneven labia minora to a thinner, more comfortable, and more appealing size and shape. The aim of labial reduction surgery is to preserve most of the natural contour, pigmentation, and sensitivity of the labia minora with minimal scarring. Your individual needs and expectations will be discussed during the consultation with Ms Kavouni, in absolute confidentiality.

Labiaplasty or Labial Reduction - The operation

Reduction of the labia minora (Labiaplasty or Labial Reduction) is performed under general anaesthesia as a day case.  Care is taken to avoid over-resection of the labia and to avoid interference with the clitoris or urethral opening. This careful reduction of the labia minora may serve to improve the physical comfort and sexuality of the patient.

Labiaplasty or Labial Reduction - After the Surgery

Post labial reduction you will have to wear a dressing that will be similar to a pad worn during menstruation. There might be some swelling and wound fluid in the labia so bed rest helps for the first day. You will need to wear a small sanitary towel until the ooze stops, usually after 1-2 weeks after labial reduction. Please avoid using tampons. Treatment of the labiaplasty (labial reduction) wound during the first days is important; take a shower once or twice a day and then dry the area. Avoid strenuous activity as well as sexual intercourse for 2-3 weeks after surgery. Sitting, using the toilet and having sexual intercourse will be painful initially. The sutures are absorbable so there is no need for suture removal after labiaplasty (labial reduction) surgery.

Labiaplasty or Labial Reduction - Risks

Post Labiaplasty or Labial Reduction surgery a haematoma (blood collection) is unusual but may require drainage and can occasionally be excessive, requiring re-operation.

Moderate discomfort should be expected after Labiaplasty (Labial Reduction). There should only be some bruising and swelling which will disappear after 10 days. Infection of the wound can rarely be serious requiring antibiotics and delaying the wound healing. Some hypersensitivity around the Labiaplasty (Labial Reduction) scar may occur and may take up to 6 weeks to resolve.

Labiaplasty or Labial Reduction - Results