Labiaplasty (labia reduction surgery)

What is labiaplasty?

Labiaplasty, also known as labia reduction, is a surgical procedure to reshape or reduce the size of the labia minora (the inner folds of skin on either side of the vaginal opening). Surgeons can also perform labiaplasty on the labia majora (the outer folds often covered with pubic hair that surround the labia minora).

Labiaplasty is not the same as Vaginoplasty, which is a surgical procedure to tighten or reconstruct the vaginal canal.

Types of labia reduction surgery

There are several labiaplasty techniques for the labia minora:

1. The trim technique: The trim technique, also known as the Edge Excision, removes excess tissue along the outer edge of one or both sides of the labia minora to create a more symmetrical and neater appearance. The trim technique is particularly effective for removing darkened or uneven edges and reducing the length of the labia minora.
2. The wedge technique: The wedge technique, also known as the Wedge Excision or Wedge Resection, involves removing a wedge or triangular-shaped section of tissue from the central portion of the labia minora whilst leaving the natural, wrinkled outer edge of your labia intact. Your surgeon will suture (stitch) together the two cut edges to create a smaller, more symmetrical shape. The wedge technique is effective for reducing the size and length of the labia minora whilst maintaining a natural appearance of the labial edge.
3. The de-epithelialisation technique: This involves removing only the outer layer of skin (epithelium) from the labia minora while preserving the deeper tissues, which contain nerves and blood vessels. This method reduces the size and thickness of the labia but may help maintain sensation in the area and promote faster healing. Your surgeon may use this technique in combination with the trim and wedge technique, depending on your desired outcome and the shape of your labia minora.

Labiaplasty for the labia majora

Labiaplasty for the labia majora focuses on reshaping, reducing or restoring volume to the outer folds of the vulva (typically covered with pubic hair). People often choose this type of procedure if they are concerned about bulkiness, sagging, or loss of volume due to ageing, weight loss, or personal preference.

There are several surgical techniques for the labia majora:

1. Direct excision: A crescent-shaped strip of skin, alongside any excess fatty tissue, is removed from the inner edge of the labia majora. The incision is then closed, which lifts and tightens the areas to create a smoother, more balanced appearance. This technique is best for patients who feel their labia majora is too large, bulky or hangs lower than they would like.
2. Liposuction: Fat is removed from the labia majora using a fine cannula to slim and reduce the overall bulk of the labia majora. This technique is best for patients with excess fat but who do not have significant loose skin.
3. Fat grafting: First, your surgeon will harvest fat from another area of the body (usually the abdomen or thighs). Your surgeon will then inject the fat into the labia majora. This technique restores lost volume to the labia majora caused by ageing or weight loss.

Is labiaplasty right for me?

There are a few reasons why you might consider labiaplasty, including:

• Discomfort or pain: An enlarged or asymmetrical labia can cause chaffing, irritation or pain during exercise, sexual intercourse or while wearing tight clothing.
• Post-childbirth changes: Vaginal childbirth can cause stretch or tear of the labial tissues, sometimes resulting in asymmetry, with one side appearing slightly different from the other, or a change in shape or volume of the labia.
• Age-related changes: Sagging or loss of elasticity, which are part of the natural ageing process, can affect the appearance of the labia or may cause discomfort for some individuals.
• Hygiene issues: Excess tissue can make it difficult to maintain proper hygiene, which could lead to irritation and an increased risk of infections such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) or yeast infections.
• Appearance and self-confidence: Some individuals feel self-conscious or embarrassed about the size, shape or symmetry of their labia and seek labiaplasty for cosmetic and psychological reasons.

Just like any other part of the body, the labia minora can vary widely in shape, size, and colour from person to person. There is no single medically defined “normal” appearance. Choosing labiaplasty for cosmetic reasons is a personal decision, often based on aligning your appearance with your preferences or comfort.

What happens during labiaplasty?

What happens before labiaplasty

Your consultant (surgeon) will discuss your reasons for labiaplasty, whether they relate to physical discomfort, cosmetic concerns, reduced self-confidence, or an impact on your sexual activity. They will also talk through your expectations and what you hope to achieve from the surgery.

Your consultant will also perform a physical examination to determine whether you are suitable for labiaplasty. They will assess the labia minora and/or labia majora, checking for any lumps or abnormalities, and evaluating the size, shape and symmetry of the tissue.

They will also explain the different surgical techniques available for labiaplasty and recommend the most appropriate method.

Preparing for surgery

Your consultant and the hospital team will give you instructions on how to prepare for surgery, and it is important to follow them carefully. They will review your medical history and may ask you to complete some diagnostic tests, such as blood tests and urinalysis, before your procedure.

Please tell your consultant and pre-assessment nurse about all the medications you are taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements. They will advise you on whether to continue or temporarily stop taking medicines before and after your surgery.

If you smoke, your healthcare team will ask you to stop, as smoking increases the risk of wound infections and delays healing.

Be sure to follow any instructions for fasting before your surgery (usually no food or drink for several hours before your surgery).

During the operation

You can have labiaplasty under either general anaesthesia or local anaesthesia with or without sedation. Your surgeon and hospital team will discuss which type of anaesthesia is best for you.

The duration of labiaplasty can vary depending on the surgical technique used, but it typically takes between 1 and 2 hours.

1. The medical team positions you comfortably and cleans the area with an antiseptic to minimise the risk of infection.
2. Your surgeon will use a surgical marker to draw directly on the labia labia minora or labia majora. The markings outline the exact areas of tissue removal and show how your surgeon will reshape the remaining tissue to achieve the desired size and shape.
3. The tissie is removed, depending on the technique.
4. After the surgeon removes the excess tissue and achieves the desired shape, they will use dissolvable stitches to close the surgical site.

Going home after your labiaplasty

You should be able to go home on the same day as your surgery, as surgeons usually perform labiaplasty as a day case. You will need to take 1 to 2 weeks off work to allow healing and recovery.

After your surgery, you can expect some pain, swelling and bruising. Your healthcare team will likely give you some pain medication to help manage the pain.

Before you leave the hospital, your consultant and healthcare team will give you instructions on how to recover at home. General aftercare advice may include:

• Get plenty of rest, especially in the first week following your surgery.
• Keep the area clean and dry to reduce the risk of infection. Use warm water after using the toilet and gently pat dry. Avoid scrubbing and using harsh soaps.
• Avoid strenuous exercise, cycling and heavy lifting for 4 to 6 weeks.
• Avoid sexual intercourse for at least 4 to 6 weeks until cleared by your consultant.
• Do not use tampons or menstrual cups for at least 4 weeks. Use sanitary towels.
• Wear loose-fitting underwear and clothing to prevent rubbing on the healing area.
• Apply cold compresses or ice packs on the area to reduce swelling and discomfort, but limit to 10 to 15 minutes at a time.

Recovery timeline after labiaplasty

Recovery can vary depending on the individual, the surgical technique and how well you follow aftercare instructions. 

What are the benefits of labiaplasty?

1. Reduced discomfort or pain: Labiaplasty can alleviate pain or discomfort from activities such as exercise, sexual intercourse or tight clothing caused by an enlarged or asymmetrical labia minora.
2. Improved sexual confidence and enhanced pleasure: By removing excess tissue that might’ve caused discomfort, labiaplasty can increase comfort and enjoyment during sexual intercourse. Some individuals may feel less self-conscious during sexual activity as they are more comfortable with the appearance of their labia.
3. Improved appearance: Labiaplasty can restore the shape and symmetry of the labia minora, as some individuals may be concerned with the appearance of their labia following childbirth or ageing.
4. Improved mental health and quality of life: Labiaplasty can boost a person’s self-esteem as they feel more comfortable and confident about their body’s appearance.
5. Improved hygiene: The removal of excess tissue can make it easier to maintain proper hygiene and reduce the risk of infections.

What are the risks of labiaplasty?

Most people recover well after labiaplasty. However, like any surgical procedure, complications can occur. Your consultant and healthcare team will discuss all the risks and complications of labiaplasty at your initial consultation.

General complications may include:

• Pain: Post-operative pain is normal and is usually manageable with medication.
• Bleeding: You can expect some bleeding, but if you experience heavy or continuous bleeding, contact your surgeon immediately.
• Infection.
• Reaction to anaesthetic: For example, nausea and vomiting.
• Blood clots (Deep vein Thrombosis DVT): A rare risk associated with any surgery.

Specific complications of labiaplasty:

• Wounds are slow to heal.
• Wound breakdown: The separation or opening of the surgical wound.
• Hematoma: A collection of blood under the skin.
• Scarring: These are usually minimal with labiaplasty.
• Asymmetry: Uneven appearance of the labia after surgery.
• Removing too much or too little tissue.
• Loss of sensitivity.
• Pain during sexual intercourse.
• Need for revision surgery.

Are there non-surgical alternatives to labiaplasty?

Some non-surgical alternatives may help to improve the appearance and comfort of the labia. However, it is important to note that non-surgical options do not achieve the same degree of tissue removal or reshaping as labiaplasty, and their effects are temporary.

1. Radiofrequency (RF) or laser: These treatments use electromagnetic (RF) or laser energy to gently heat the skin and deeper tissue, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. This treatment may improve the skin firmness, texture and tone, leading to a subtle tightening effect.
2. Dermal filler (for the labia majora): Hyaluronic acid-based fillers can be injected into the labia majora to add volume, helping them appear fuller.

How much does a labiaplasty cost?

Click here and select your local Nuffield Health hospital to find the guide price for labiaplasty. Please note that the guide price stated is an approximation of the cost of treatment only. The hospital or your healthcare team will give you a fixed all-inclusive price for the treatment following your initial consultation.