Who is suitable for labiaplasty?
Written by:
Plastic surgeon
Published: 07/06/2019
Edited by: Laura Burgess
Labiaplasty refers to altering the appearance of the labia. This commonly involves reducing the labia minora (inner labia) and less often the labia majora (outer labia), which are the flaps of skin on either side of the vaginal opening. We’ve asked consultant plastic surgeon Mr Nilesh Sojitra to explain why a woman might opt for labiaplasty, who is suitable and wouldn’t make an ideal candidate for the procedure.
Why would a woman opt for labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is sought by patients who either have congenital conditions or those who experience physical discomfort or wish to alter the appearance of their genitals because they believe they do not fall within a normal range.
Are there any risks to having labiaplasty?
There are many techniques used during the procedure and it depends on what is required. These include edge resection, wedge excision or de-epithelisation. All operations come with a risk of complications and it is necessary to minimise this.
Who isn’t a suitable candidate?
Contraindications to surgery are smokers as this may lead to increased wound breakdown and infection. Women who have unrealistic aesthetic expectations and those who are suffering from body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) would also not be ideal candidates for labiaplasty.
How much does a labiaplasty cost?
The procedure costs between £3500 - 3950.
What happens after surgery?
During the recovery period, swelling and itching are common within the first 48-hours. This then subsides over the following weeks. Itching after labiaplasty is common in the first week whilst everything is healing. It is important to see your surgeon when itching persists, as it could be a sign of a yeast or bacterial infection, or the itching could be an allergic reaction to a medication.
The stitches used are dissolvable and are usually gone by three to four weeks. Often the scar blends in very well into the labia minora tissue, which naturally has multiple wrinkles and folds. It might be so well hidden that your gynaecologist may not even notice it. After the stitches dissolve, the scar tissue will become firm before it softens after several months.
When can I exercise following labiaplasty?
Usually, women return to their active lifestyle and fitness routines two to four weeks after surgery. It can take six to eight weeks before the scars are strong enough for you to return to sexual intercourse.
Book an appointment now with Mr Sojitra if you're interested in labiaplasty.