What is Labiaplasty?

Labiaplasty, also known as labia minora reduction or nymphoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure on the female genitalia aimed at eliminating hypertrophy of the labia minora, i.e., the excess skin that makes them too large, and, if necessary, restoring the volume of the labia majora that has been lost over time through lipofilling. It is therefore useful for resolving aesthetic and functional problems related to cases of hypertrophy of the labia minora or asymmetry between the two sides.

This imperfection, sometimes caused by the simple aging process, is often present since adolescence and/or can worsen with pregnancy.

Hypertrophic Labia Minora

Hypertrophy of the vaginal labia minora is a very common problem in women, but it is often not diagnosed because the patient, embarrassed, does not go to the doctor. The incidence of this situation is estimated at about 5%, however, over the years, it can also be associated with the problem of atrophy of the labia majora, which decrease in volume.

Hypertrophy of the labia minora is a source of insecurity for some women and can be the cause of great discomfort, or pain, and can even lead to infections, particularly fungal in nature, when the problem is very pronounced.

Hypertrophic labia minora, indeed, extending beyond the limit defined by the labia majora, can:

• become "visible", irritated or painful when patients wear certain tight clothing for example;
• cause irritation or functional difficulties when walking, cycling or practicing certain sports such as horseback riding;
• create discomfort or difficulty during sexual intercourse by interfering with penetration;

What does labiaplasty involve?

During the operation

After careful and accurate marking of the vaginal lip mucosa to be removed, the incision is made and the excess is removed using a cold blade scalpel or an electric scalpel, followed by suturing.

In case of hypotrophy of the tissues in the labial region, generally the labia majora, lipofilling is also performed, which is previously harvested by liposuction in areas rich in adipose tissue such as the abdomen, hips and inner thighs, etc.

Labiaplasty is a fairly simple surgical procedure. It lasts about 60 minutes under local anesthesia with sedation, or an additional hour for lipofilling of the labia majora.

Postoperative

The postoperative period is not particularly painful and is rather quick. Antibiotic and, if necessary, analgesic treatment is prescribed. For the first 3 weeks, it is recommended to use hypoallergenic and loose cotton underwear, loose clothing such as wide trousers (tracksuits) or skirts, to avoid any pressure on the crotch area, and it is recommended to use panty liners. It is normal to feel a little discomfort and swelling during the first few days, as well as the formation of slight edema which can create a momentarily asymmetrical effect. It is important to have good intimate hygiene using intimate soap and water to dab the area. It is recommended to continue personal hygiene with an intimate cleanser twice a day for the first 3 months. Normal activity can be resumed immediately, and sexual activity 4 to 6 weeks after the procedure. Sports and the use of tampons should be stopped for at least one month.

Benefits of Labiaplasty

Labiaplasty offers two main benefits. It improves intimate hygiene and symmetry, giving a more aesthetic appearance. In addition, this procedure can also increase the feeling of security in some patients. This procedure reduces irritation that can be caused by wearing tight clothing. It can also eliminate the physical discomfort some women complain about when performing certain activities or exercises, or during sexual intercourse. Furthermore, many patients report achieving orgasm faster after a labiaplasty.

Labiaplasty reduces the vaginal lips, generally with a lifelong effect. Childbirth does not invalidate the surgery. It is true, moreover, that labiaplasty tends to facilitate childbirth.

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Who are the ideal candidates for a labiaplasty?

Ideal candidates for labiaplasty should not have any sexually transmitted diseases. In general, these are women who suffer from changes after the birth of a child or who have undergone significant weight loss who need a labiaplasty. The patient must be in good health and a non-smoker. If she is a smoker, she must stop smoking at least three weeks before the operation. Patients of all ages can undergo labiaplasty. For adolescents, parental consent is required. The patient must not be menstruating on the day of the operation.

What are the possible risks of labiaplasty?

There are some risks associated with labiaplasty:

• Bleeding, infection, bruising, blood clots, and bacteria;
• Sometimes, the incision opens;
• In the worst case, the patient may experience temporary or permanent numbness of the vaginal lip area;
• The clitoris may appear larger;
• The vaginal lips may become asymmetrical, wrinkled, discolored, or swollen;
• Discomfort during sexual intercourse;

Can a labiaplasty and vaginoplasty be performed at the same time?

Many women prefer to have both procedures (labiaplasty and vaginoplasty) performed at the same time. Surgeons can reduce the size of the labia and, at the same time, perform an operation aimed at restoring dilated vaginal tissues (for example, following multiple pregnancies). However, it is up to the patient to decide whether she wants the procedures performed together or separately.