Labial Reduction

There is a steady increase in the demand for labial (inner lips) reduction surgery, from the age of 18 onwards, with very high satisfaction rate. With age and childbirth the labia can change in shape, size and tone, and in many cases women are just not happy with the labia and other parts of their genitalia. Large labia can also be inherent starting at a young age (adulthood). Many females are very self conscious of the appearance of the labia, particulary in tight clothing, swimwear and during sexual intercourse. Large labia can be uncomfortable and unsightly in sports, as in cycling. This can be embarrassing, uncomfortable and can even lead to sexual dissatisfaction or difficulty, hence the demand for labial reduction surgery.

What is Female Genitalia Reshaping / Labial Reduction / Labiaplasty?

Reshaping of the female genitalia procedures can be carried out on the following areas:

Labia Minora/Labia Majora (inner lips of the vagina) - Women with long / large or unequal labia minora, can have them aesthetically reshaped. Some patients desire to have a more youthful external vagina by reshaping or reducing the inner or outer labia.

Pubis Mound - Removal of unwanted fatty deposits off the pubic area just above the vulva can produce an aesthetically pleasing contour of the pubic area. Liposuction or 'liposculpture' of the mons pubis may be an isolated procedure or performed in conjunction with liposuction of the abdomen or thighs. The appearance of the mons is enhanced by improving its definition. Liposuction gives very satisfactory results.

The Surgery (Labial Reduction / Labia-plasty)

Labial reduction is carried out as a day case, either under general anaesthetic (you are asleep) or local anaesthetic (you are awake). The area is reshaped or reduced in size and sutured with absorbable sutures. Liposuction of the pubis is done through small keyhole scars.

 

 

Recovery from Labial Reduction (Labiaplasty)

Women may experience some mild discomfort and swelling, which usually disappears completely after 1-2 weeks. The sutures are dissolvable. In cases of liposuction of the pubic area, you are advised to wear a supportive garment for approximately 6 weeks. It is best to avoid strenuous exercise and sexual intercourse for a similar period. Recovery is quite rapid - a week after surgery you should be able to return to work.

Potential Risks of Labial Reduction / Labiaplasty

Every surgical procedure carries a certain amount of risk, and it is important that you understand the risks involved with genital labial reduction surgery.

You should expect a certain degree of bruising and swelling. Asymmetry between the 2 labia can occur. The scars usually heal satisfactorily, however in a small number of patients, the healing can be slow.

Bleeding, infection, wound break down, excessive scarring, blood clots in leg veins and/or lung and further revisional surgery are general risks that can follow any operation.

With regard to liposuction, please refer to the liposuction surgery.

The information provided gives you a basic understanding of the female genitalia procedures but it may not answer all your questions, a lot depends on your individual circumstances. This website provides guidance and is not intended to be a substitute for a surgical consultation with Professor Fahmy in Shropshire, Chester, Cheshire or Wrexham, North Wales and Shrewsbury, Mid Wales.

For any enquiries, you can email Professor Fahmy on info@cosmeticplastic.co.uk. Your consultation will be directly with Professor Fahmy and the treatment will be performed by himself at the hospital of your choice either Pulford Medical Centre, Chester (Cheshire) or Spire Yale Hospital, Wrexham (Wales). It is always advisable to bring a friend or a relative during your consultation, as this may further assist you in any questions you may have.