Aurora Clinics: Photo of Labiaplasty Surgery
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Labiaplasty (Labia Reduction Surgery)

Cosmetic gynaecology is an area of cosmetic surgery that is growing in popularity. At Aurora Clinics, we see more and more women who are unhappy with the appearance of their genital area and are seeking an aesthetic improvement.

Childbirth and the natural ageing process can change the look and feel of the vagina, causing many women to feel self-conscious, particularly when it comes to intimacy. Our expert surgeons are able to use precision techniques to carefully reshape and refine the labia, producing a more streamlined and youthful look, and most importantly – giving you back your confidence.

Considering a Labiaplasty?

There are two different types of labiaplasty surgery, labia minora reduction and labia majora reduction:

Labia Minora Reduction

The labia minora are the inner lips of the vagina, and if they are overly large (known as labial hypertrophy), or asymmetrical, it can affect your confidence and in some cases cause discomfort while performing certain activities or wearing tight clothing, as well as embarrassment with a sexual partner. Enlarged labia minora can be present from birth, or alternatively caused by childbirth, hormonal changes, or simply a result of the natural ageing process.

Labia minora reduction surgery does not mean that the enlarged labia is removed altogether. Instead, the labia minora are contoured, reshaped, and reduced in size with as little cutting as possible.

It’s a relatively minor surgery that can be completed in about two hours with little discomfort. Usually you are put under general anaesthetic, but local anaesthetic can also be used.

Labia Majora Reduction

The labia majora are the outer lips of the vulva – the outline of which may be visible when you wear tight clothing. The labia majora can be reduced for functional or aesthetic reasons. You may have undergone a large amount of weight loss or experience discomfort during certain activities such as horseback riding or bicycle riding.

A labia majora reduction can be performed quickly using liposuction to remove excess fatty tissue and reshape the area. The procedure by which the labia majora is reduced consists of an incision being made within the labia minora. This allows the surgeon to gain access to the labia majora’s fat beneath. The surgeon works carefully to provide a subtle yet significant reduction of the labia, while preserving symmetry.

The same technique can be used to reduce the size of the ‘mons pubis’ or pubic mound – which can be performed at the same time as a labia majora reduction. The surgery is performed under local anaesthetic, and recovery is usually very swift.

How will it impact your life?

Most women who undergo a labiaplasty are very satisfied with the results, having thinner and sleeker labia minora or majora, and generally feel more comfortable when it comes to wearing tight clothing and engaging in certain activities. If performed correctly it leaves no obvious scar on the outer rim, and the labia are left with their natural pigmentation and a youthful look. It is not likely that a sexual partner will be able to notice that there was any surgery performed at all, and there is usually no loss of sensation in the patient.

It is important to note that although the vast majority of patients are satisfied with this procedure, cosmetic surgery does not automatically improve your self image or increase sexual satisfaction. Although the surgery has the potential to increase confidence, don’t expect it to do so right away. Before undergoing the procedure, it is essential that you have realistic expectations.

Is a Labiaplasty right for you?

This surgery is performed on women who feel that their labia minora or majora are uneven or too large.

Labia reduction, or labiaplasty, is a very delicate procedure performed by our highly experienced surgeons. It involves carefully removing a small amount of excess tissue or fat to reduce the size of the labia, giving them a smoother, more contoured appearance. After undergoing the procedure, patients report increased feelings of confidence with their partners, as well as peace of mind when wearing swimwear, lingerie and tight clothing.

If this is something that you think you would benefit from then you may be a suitable candidate for labiaplasty surgery.

After your surgery and beyond…

After the labia surgery, recovery is usually quite swift. Your surgeon may recommend the use of a sanitary towel directly following the surgery. You can expect to return to work in about 5 days after having a labia minora reduction and at least a week after having a labia majora reduction. You will also need to stop heavy exercise for the first 10 days after surgery.  Your genitals will be swollen and sore for several weeks after the procedure is performed. Patients are advised to wear a pad for one week due to the bleeding that occurs. Normal sexual activity can resume about six weeks after the procedure is performed. Regular physical exams will be scheduled with the doctor so that it is ensured that the recovery process goes smoothly.

It is not common for patients to experience severe side effects or complications from this procedure. The surgeon will always discuss the possible complications during your consultation but it is important that you ask any questions you may have before undergoing the surgery.

The next step

We would always encourage you to do as much research as you can when considering any type of cosmetic surgery, so for more information on both labia minora and labia majora reduction: