Labia Reduction (Labiaplasty)
Restoring confidence…
Many women feel self-conscious and embarrassed if they feel their labia is too large or asymmetrical. Labia reshaping and reduction surgery is becoming increasingly popular – it can boost your body confidence and personal relationships.
The labia minora are the inner lips of the vagina. They come in all shapes and sizes, as all women are different. But overly large, protruding or uneven labia can leave women feeling self conscious, and can have adverse affects on personal relationships and self confidence. Your labia may also be causing discomfort during activities such as cycling or walking, or other physical activities. It may just be that their appearance makes you feel unhappy or self-conscious. Whether you have always felt this way, or there has been a change with age or after childbirth, surgery could help you overcome the problem.
Labial reduction is the term used to describe a range of surgical procedures that reduce the size and prominence of the labia. Any cuts that are made are carefully placed to prevent painful scarring along the rim of the labia, and are closed with dissolving stitches.
The operation usually takes around one hour, and can be performed under local anaesthetic in the minor operations room in our outpatients department. This means that you will be awake, but the area will be completely numb. Alternatively, labial reduction is also done under general anaesthetic, which means you are asleep during the procedure.
Labial reduction is usually carried out as a day-case, with no need to stay overnight in hospital. You can expect soreness and swelling for a few days after the operation and you will probably need to take some time off work to rest and recover.
As with any cosmetic procedure, it is important that you review your expectations thoroughly before you decide to proceed, and having a full consultation with a registered consultant plastic, surgeon is essential. They will discuss the procedure, your options and the best course of treatment for you.
The procedure takes between one to one and a half hours and can be performed under either a local or general anaesthetic. There is no need to stay overnight in hospital.
How long is the recovery period?
After surgery, you may experience some mild discomfort and swelling, which usually disappears completely after 1-2 weeks. The labial incisions are rarely noticeable when healed. You may bathe/shower and you must keep the vaginal area scrupulously clean.
Passing urine should not cause you a problem but may be mildly uncomfortable.
When can I resume normal activities?
In most cases you can return to work within 1 week, with swelling disappearing within 1-2 weeks. However, patients recover at different rates and it is important that you listen to your body. Sexual intercourse can resume whenever you feel comfortable.
Do I have to have the stitches removed?
The very fine sutures are dissolving but you will need to return for a check after 1 week.
How do I choose a surgeon? Who will I see?
How do I make an appointment? How to book a consultation
What should I expect from a consultation?
Where will my surgery take place?
What's a pre-assessment and why do I need one?
There are risks involved in undergoing any surgery, and these will be explained in full by your consultant during your initial consultation.
Special Notes
You will need someone to drive you home.
No GP referral necessary
0800 917 4922 