You may have heard of the labiaplasty procedure. As women’s bodies age, their genitals age with them. With age, the skin’s elasticity decreases, and with it, the labia sags. Inner lip lengthens due to sagging. This condition can cause physical discomfort during sports, sexual activities, or even regular movements. However, even in less extreme cases, women may be dissatisfied with the size or shape of their labia. In this case, it would be appropriate to consider plastic surgery. The primary role here is the personal feelings and wishes of the patient.
| Operation Duration | Length of hospitalization | Recovery Time |
| 1-2 hours | 1 day | 1-2 weeks |
Labiaplasty is an operation in which the surgeon removes excess tissue from the labia minora and adjusts the symmetry of this area. It is a solution for women who are uncomfortable with the size or appearance of small inner lips, both aesthetically and functionally (chronic irritation, discomfort). This procedure is an outpatient surgical procedure. The reason for this surgery is often an unsightly appearance, but physical pain or the risk of injury during sexual intercourse or sports activities. There is no medical criterion for which bars this surgery should recommend to women. However, for many patients, the reason for the surgery may be, for example, discomfort during sports activities, sex, and also hygiene.
The procedure is also a solution for women who aren’t satisfied with the appearance of this area and therefore prefer it purely from an aesthetic point of view. There are many reasons women decide to have plastic surgery on their private parts. Although there is no objective criterion for how large or symmetrical the inner lips should be, for many women, small inner lips that seem too long because they protrude beyond the inner lips are a problem for most women. In this case, the culprit may be:
- Pregnancy
- Sexual activity
- Old age and menopause
- Significant change in weight
- Genetics
Many women suffering from enlarged inner lips may experience difficulties with hygiene, urinary tract infections, sexual activities, and sports. In addition, this aesthetic problem can make it difficult for many women to wear tight tights or swimsuits.
Excess tissue can bend or pinch easily and cause physical discomfort during athletic and sexual activity. From a medical point of view, the labiaplasty procedure may be necessary if the labia insert into the vagina during sexual intercourse or other activity, and this can cause a very unpleasant injury.
What is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty allows the reduction of the labia minora or labia majora, which usually enlarge and asymmetrical. With the atrophy of the large inner lips and loss of volume and elasticity, their enlargement can achieve by surgery. The abnormal size of the inner lips can cause problems during hygiene, sports activity, during sexual intercourse.
The external female genital tract consists of the vaginal entrance, the opening of the urethra, and a projection on which many sensitive nerve endings- the clitoris– are located. This entire area is covered on the sides by small labia- thin skin folds that meet in the pubis area. The female external genitalia is covered with more enormous mounds of skin- labia majora, with fat pads on the sides.
Large lips typically wholly cover and enclose the external genitalia. Sometimes, however, the labia minora reaches a more significant size or length and may protrude between the labia majora. In most cases, this overlap isn’t considerable. It is, therefore, not aesthetically or functionally important.
However, if the inner lips protrude too much, it can pose a problem both in terms of aesthetics and in practical life. Sometimes it’s hard to squeeze that excess into more petite women’s panties or swimsuits. Sometimes it even interferes with sports activities.
For example, significant pain or other problems occur while riding a bicycle. Also, intimate hygiene tends to be more complex in these situations. This defect can also be a psychological barrier to sexual life. Then the modification by a plastic surgeon is entirely appropriate and gives excellent results. That’s why labiaplasty is so important.
Who Should Have Labiaplasty Procedure?
Ideal candidates for labiaplasty are all women with aesthetic problems in their vaginas. Labiaplasty is for women who experience unwanted shape or size changes in their inner lips due to various factors; it is usually a bilateral problem. These changes can result from friction and injury to the labia during long walks or sports. Issues also arise when wearing certain clothes, for example, tight pants or swimsuits.
Therefore, the labiaplasty operation solves the functional, health, and aesthetic problems that hinder a woman. Intimate plastic surgery mainly performs for aesthetic purposes. Plastic surgery of the inner and outer lips prescribe for women with the following subjective and objective problems:
- Protrusion of small lips for big ones
- Labia asymmetry
- Long and drooping labia
- Atypical dimensions of the labia
- Looseness of the labia
- Folded shape of labia
- Damage to the labia due to burns, wounds, domestic or birth trauma
- Excessive pigmentation of the labia
Every woman wants to be attractive, so even a flaw hidden from prying eyes can cause discomfort. There are also medical causes, such as pain from wearing tight underwear or pants, walking, or cycling. Check out the main indications for labiaplasty:
- Congenital developmental anomalies
- Synechia or labial fusion
- Too large or, conversely, the small size of the labia
- Symmetry breaking
- Small labia protruding beyond the larger ones
- Hyperpigmentation
- Loss of elasticity, ptosis
- Postpartum sprains, trauma, scars
- Age changes
Women often come for this plastic surgery after pregnancy and childbirth and with the advent of age-related changes. But it isn’t uncommon for young girls to have surgery to restore the symmetrical shape of the labia and correct other deficiencies.
What are the Risks of the Labiaplasty Process?
In most cases, labiaplasty performs according to subjective indications. A woman is dissatisfied with the shape and size of small and large labia, which causes difficulties in the intimate sphere. There are several medical indications, the elimination of which will significantly improve the patient’s quality of life.
Labioplasty, also known as vaginal rejuvenation, is a surgical procedure that involves changing the size or shape of the vaginal lips (labia). The process typically does for cosmetic reasons. But it can also help relieve discomfort or irritation caused by enlarged or asymmetrical labia. As with any surgical procedure, labiaplasty carries certain risks, including:
- Loss or deformation of natural appearance
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Pain
- Painful intercourse after the procedure
- Skin redness or bruising
- Loss of sensitivity
These risks are usually rare and will be discussed in detail with you by your plastic surgeon. It is essential to choose a qualified, experienced surgeon and carefully examine your concerns and questions with them before undergoing the procedure.
This procedure generally applies to women who are engaged in power sports. Due to their anabolic uptake, they hypertrophy the labial tissues, often successfully removed during labiaplasty. The possibility of performing the inner lip operation isn’t affected due to anatomical or aesthetic defects. This process aims to increase or, conversely, reduce its size due to age-related changes, injuries, and chronic diseases that occur in the body. As with any surgical treatment, labiaplasty has some limitations. Check out the absolute contraindications:
- 2-3 degree severe hematopoietic system diseases (hemophilia, anemia, etc.)
- Pregnancy period, regardless of the term
- Active inflammatory processes in the reproductive system
- Genital infections
- Oncological pathologies
Check out the relative contraindications:
- Coronary heart disease
- Children and adolescents (up to 16 years old)
- Sexually transmitted diseases
- Mental disorders
For a patient with high expectations, the decision for labiaplasty makes by the doctor.
What Will You Encounter During a Labiaplasty Consultation?
The first step for labiaplasty is to meet with a doctor who will evaluate the problem and clarify the surgery’s possibilities. A labiaplasty consultation allows you to meet with a plastic surgeon to discuss your concerns and goals for the procedure. During the consultation, your surgeon will likely ask you about your medical history, including previous surgeries or medical conditions that may affect your ability to have labiaplasty.
Your surgeon will also examine your genital area to evaluate the size and shape of your labia and determine the best approach for your particular situation. The specialist may use a mirror to explain the changes they can make with this procedure and show you the current appearance of your lips.
Additionally, your surgeon will likely discuss with you the possible risks and complications of the procedure, as well as the expected recovery time and postoperative care instructions. The doctor can also show you before and after labiaplasty, photos to give you an idea of the possible results. The consultation is essential in this process because it allows you to ask questions, voice your concerns, and decide whether the procedure is correct.
However, it would be best if you inform your doctor about all your health problems, medications, and food supplements you use. You will need to stop some of them because of the operation. You will also receive all information regarding preparation for surgery and postoperative care in writing.
In the last three weeks, before the process, you must be completely healthy and inform the doctor if a mild infection (cold, virus, etc.) occurs. Likewise, if even a common disease of the genitals occurs (for example, yeast infection), you should convey this information to the doctor.
How Should You Prepare for Labiaplasty Procedure?
A necessary condition for the labiaplasty procedure is that the patient is of legal age. Another requirement is a comprehensive consultation examination by a plastic surgeon. During this examination, in addition to the study, you will receive detailed instructions on how the surgery will perform and what to expect from the labiaplasty surgery.
In most cases, you can agree with the plastic surgeon about the size or shape requirements of your problem area. The doctor will set the surgery date to operate on shortly after the end of your period. The plastic surgeon will also give appropriate instructions about your need for proper intimate hygiene in the postoperative period.
Plastic surgery of the intimate area is a particular operation that requires careful preparation by the healthcare staff and the patient. Passing a series of tests and performing a few simple steps dramatically facilitates the operation’s course and positively affects the final result. To correct the inner lip, you should complete the following examinations 3-7 days before the labiaplasty procedure:
- General analysis of blood and urine
- Blood chemistry
- Coagulation graph
- Blood group and Rh factor
- Test for syphilis and detection of antibodies to HIV
- Blood test for the presence of antibodies to hepatitis B and C viruses
- EKG and therapist’s consultation
On the day of surgery, you should:
- Carefully shave the hair in the labia and pubic area.
- Empty your bladder.
- When choosing general anesthesia, avoid eating from the evening of the day before the operation and drinking 3-4 hours before the operation.
What are Labiaplasty Methods and Types?
When choosing the most suitable variant of the procedure, the doctor focuses on the purpose of the application, the area of correction, and the type of anatomical or aesthetic defect. Check out the labiaplasty methods and types in general:
Traditional Method
The most common method is labioplasty, performed by surgeons using traditional surgical instruments. Surgeons can complete the process in two ways:
- V-shaped: The procedure allows you to reduce the labia by 1-4 cm while preserving hyperpigmentation and physiological fold.
- Linear: During the reduction of the small lips, the protruding part is excised, with the disappearance of hyperpigmentation and increased folding of the edges.
Laser Application
Laser labiaplasty is possible. In practice, however, doctors rarely use this intimate surgical technique. The lack of demand for laser surgery is the inconsistency between the planned results and the unpredictability of the timing of tissue restoration.
In some cases, the reduction of the labia minora performs with a radio wave scalpel. Combined surgical intervention becomes an indication for this type of this procedure. It aims to reduce the lips and, at the same time, correct the skin folds located near the clitoris.
Z Shaped
This most common method of correcting the lips carries out excessive swelling. At the patient’s request, a visual defect in excess skin is removed by stretching the clitoral head.
H Shaped
This is a popular method for correcting elongated labia. In addition to size correction, the surgeon can tighten the clitoral head at the patient’s request.
Elimination of the Pharynx of the Vagina
Surgeons perform extensive extended vaginal surgery. The pharynx of the vagina gradually eliminates, and large or small labia enlarge. In addition, a filler containing hyaluronic acid gives after this process.
Correction of Small Lips
Labiaplasty, aim to reduce their size. Excess tissue removes so that the genitals optimally shape, and then self-absorbable sutures are applied. There are two options for this procedure:
- Classic linear, where natural folds and pigmentation eliminate
- It is wedge-shaped central with the removal of excess tissue to reduce the size of the genitals
Correction of Big Lips
Labiaplasty procedure is performed with various methods according to the problem to be solved aesthetically or medically. Excessively voluminous inner lips require liposuction. Adipose tissue aspiration serves to harmonize their volume.
A change in the labia in the form of fragile skin folds consists of introducing fat from another area or a filler with hyaluronic acid.
How is Labiaplasty Procedure Performed?
This surgical procedure involves changing the size or shape of the vaginal lips (labia). During the process, the surgeon will adhere to the specific changes desired. The exact details of the system will depend on the individual needs and goals of the patient. Your surgeon will explain certain steps for your condition and answer any questions you may have. The entire process generally takes about 1,5 to 2 hours to complete. Check out the labiaplasty procedure steps in general:
- Anesthesia
Doctors will almost always operate under general anesthesia, in the gynecological position on the operating table. Before the operation, the operator precisely measures the direction of the surgical incisions so that the resulting scars aren’t noticeable and don’t disturb the patient. Doctors pay special attention to the stomach area during the operation so that the sensitive nerves that give this area exceptional sensitivity don’t frazzle in any way.
- Techniques
In practice, there are two surgical approaches to labiaplasty. In the first type of procedure, the surgeon removes the edges of the inner labia lengthwise. The doctor trims the entire perimeter of the lips and then sews them whole. The advantage of this type of labiaplasty is its simplicity and speed. Most of the time, there is no change in the color of the lip edges.
This process’s disadvantage is the frequent loss of so-called relative sensitivity around the lip.
The second method of procedure is ‘wedge excision,’ that is, the reduction process made by cutting a wedge from the top of the small lips. After the specialist removes the problem area, the doctor misses the area. Thus, a transverse scar forms on the lip, but the surrounding nerve endings aren’t damaged, and sensitivity preserve.
Sometimes there may be a visible transition in the pigmentation of the labia. This coloration often disappears over time, and the scar on the labia isn’t apparent. Both procedures can correct congenital disabilities of the inner lips regarding size asymmetry.
- Conclusion
It is necessary to work gently and carefully during the surgery and control the surgical bleeding perfectly. After treatment, the specialist sutures the surgical wounds tightly but gently. The doctor uses different types of suture materials, sometimes absorbable and sometimes non-absorbable, to suture the wound. The suture material always depends on the plastic surgeon and his experience.
Although it varies according to the scope of the operation, the operation doesn’t constitute much of a burden for you. In addition, the pain after the labiaplasty procedure isn’t so much. You will only have an unpleasant but not intense burning sensation in this area.
What to Consider After Labiaplasty Procedure?
You usually go home the day after the labiaplasty surgery. In the next period, for about a week, it is good to maintain a regimen of rest, avoid prolonged sitting, including longer car journeys, and have excellent hygiene several times a day. Here are some things to consider after the labiaplasty procedure in general:
- For personal hygiene, we recommend showering and washing with soap or a good and gentle disinfectant soap after each visit to the toilet and covering the area with a special pad.
- However, some patients tolerate it better. On the other hand, it heals better if the operated area is fully open and released.
- Quite often, the operated areas swell a little. But usually, the swelling goes away within a few days. You’d better be checked regularly by your operator. It would be best if you trusted that recovery would occur within 10, but usually 14 or more days.
- More minor swellings may continue for a longer time, and the surgical site takes its final shape in about 6 weeks, and after this period, the patient can start sexual intercourse again.
- In addition to the positive effects of this procedure, the expected negative results are typical for any surgical intervention.
- Your pain in the genital area will last for 3 to 5 days. There may also be slight bleeding for 2 to 5 days.
- In 1.5-2 weeks, tissues completely heal after intimate plastic surgery. Sensitivity in the suture area improves within a month. You can start working within 3-5 days after the labiaplasty procedure.
- After partial lips removal, maximum swelling observes in about five days. Then the node starts to go down, and after 2-3 weeks, it completely disappears. To speed up this process and avoid infection, you must follow intimate hygiene rules and regularly apply antiseptic treatments. Edema after labiaplasty sometimes complicates by bloody discharge and pain. Their severity decreases after five days, and itching and tingling observe. These are signs of recovery.
- After the procedure, the self-absorbable suture material dissolves by itself. In other cases, the doctor will remove the stitches after 1-2 weeks. If this does sooner, the edges of the wound will move away from each other; then, the threads will grow into the tissues. Redness and increased swelling in the seam area indicate an infectious-inflammatory process. You should immediately contact the doctor who performed the labiaplasty procedure.
- Correction of small or large labia, the size of the vagina, requires the rejection of sexual activity for a month. If this prohibition neglects, the seams open, and pathogens penetrate the injured tissues—a primary scar form within a month after partial circumcision of the lips. After a month, you can lead an active sex life and play sports without discomfort.
What is the Recovery Process After Labiaplasty?
Since there are susceptible points in your vagina, such as the clitoris, your surgeon will pay attention to the sensitive nerves and their discomfort. For this, the surgeon will conduct a comprehensive analysis before the labiaplasty operation. The doctor stitches up the scars after the scalpel very carefully and gently. Thus, it doesn’t interfere and is invisible.
The operator must be a true master of the operator’s craft, as the seams must be firm and flexible to achieve perfect results. Ideally, an absorbable suture is required. Usually, however, a non-absorbable suture is at the surgeon’s discretion, and the surgeon removes it after the area has healed. Check out the recovery process after labiaplasty in general:
- There will be pain you can tolerate after the procedure and only occasional stretching. The rest regimen is essential, and avoid physical exertion during this period.
- There is an increased risk of infection. So focus on improved hygiene in certain areas. Wash problem areas with soap for intimate hygiene after each toilet visit and wear a special pad for a week if it’s comfortable for you.
- You may choose a variant that heals better without underwear or inserts. Generally, swelling occurs within 3 weeks, and your problem area takes its definite shape within 6 weeks. So you can return to your sexual and everyday activities.
- It is essential to carefully follow your surgeon’s postoperative care instructions to ensure proper healing and prevent complications.
- Keep your cuts clean and dry.
- Avoid sexual intercourse or insert anything into the vagina for several weeks.
- Wear loose clothing and avoid tight pants or underwear.
- Avoid strenuous activities such as heavy lifting or exercise for several weeks.
- You can use ice packs or warm compresses to reduce swelling.
- Take your pain medication as prescribed.
- Your surgeon will likely schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and address any concerns you may have. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a few weeks, but labiaplasty recovery time may vary from person to person.
How Long After Labiaplasty Will You See the Final Result?
Labiaplasty results may not be immediately apparent, as swelling and bruising may take several weeks to subside. Most patients will see the final results within a few weeks after the procedure. However, it may take a few months for all swelling to disappear and the labia to take their final shape.
It is essential to remember that the procedure’s final results may vary from person to person. Your surgeon can give you a better idea of what to expect based on your particular situation. Overall, most patients are delighted with the results of labiaplasty. They report that their self-confidence has increased, and they have a more comfortable and satisfying sexual experience. This surgery almost always produces very satisfactory results in patients.
Of course, a lot depends on the occasion of the plastic surgeon to be able to prevent possible complications, although this isn’t very common. Being able to fulfill all the recommendations in the postoperative period is also very important in patient cooperation and discipline.
How Much Does Labiaplasty Cost?
Labiaplasty cost depends on several factors. Prices may also increase depending on the location of the clinic and general marketing management. If the clinic and the procedure are expensive in the eyes of the patient, the more expensive, the better rule certainly doesn’t apply here. So don’t be discouraged by lower prices because even there, the expertise and approach are to be at the maximum level.
The cost of labiaplasty, a surgical procedure that involves changing the size or shape of the vaginal lips (labia), can vary depending on several factors, including the specific technique used, the status of the procedure, and the location of the clinic.
It is essential to remember that the price of this procedure isn’t the only factor to consider when choosing a surgeon. Choosing a qualified, experienced surgeon who can provide safe and effective results is equally important.
In Which Countries is the Cheapest Labiaplasty Procedure Performed?
The cost of this procedure can ultimately vary depending on many factors, including the specific technique preferred by the surgeon and the problem area’s condition and location. The cost is typically lower in countries where the overall cost of living is lower. Some examples of countries where this procedure may be cheaper are Colombia, Mexico, Turkey, Taiwan, and India.
It’s a good idea to research and compare the costs of this transaction in different countries and carefully consider the potential risks and benefits before making a decision. It may also be helpful to speak with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss your options and determine the best approach for your particular situation. Check out the average labiaplasty costs by country:
| COUNTRY | COST |
| United States | $4750 to $6000 |
| Brazil | $3800 to $5100 |
| China | $4200 to $6100 |
| Japan | $4200 to $5800 |
| South Korea | $3000 to $5600 |
| India | $2900 to $4000 |
| Argentina | $3850 to $5250 |
| Mexico | $2600 to $4700 |
| Germany | $3800 to $4900 |
| Turkey | $1500 to $2500 |
| Colombia | $2770 to $5100 |
| Italy | $3750 to $5150 |
| France | $3700 to $4850 |
| Spain | $3700 to $5800 |
| Taiwan | $3700 to $4850 |
| Venezuela | $1250 to $3000 |
| United Kingdom | $4000 to $6500 |
| Netherlands | $3500 to $4700 |
| Egypt | $2900 to $3800 |
| Peru | $3100 to $4000 |
| AVERAGE COST | $1250 to $6100 |
Attention: For Information Purposes Only
Please note that the content of this website is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should always consult a specialist surgeon for personal guidance.
References
https://journals.lww.com/plasreconsurg/Fulltext/2017/04000/
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00266-013-0149-6
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1740144513001228
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25719696/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29405204/
