Medically Reviewed May 2022, by Mr Sankar - Chief Medical Officer for The Harley Medical Group
Labiaplasty
A labiaplasty (often known as labial reduction surgery) is a surgical procedure that aims to correct labial hypertrophy by reshaping and reducing the labia minora/majora, the inner and outer of the ‘lips’ that surround the opening of the vagina.
Reasons for undergoing labial reduction surgery
- Enlarged and elongated labial, causing discomfort when wearing certain clothing
- Discomfort during activities such as cycling, walking or during sexual intercourse
- Your labial's appearance that makes you feel unhappy or self-conscious
- Change in shape or size from childbirth leaving you feeling self-conscious
The procedure
Labiaplasty is the term used to describe a range of surgical procedures that reduce the size, shape and prominence of the labia.
Labial reduction takes between one and two hours and can be performed under local anaesthesia, which means you will be awake but the area will be completely numb, or under a general anaesthesia which means you are asleep during the procedure. Any cuts that are made are carefully placed to prevent scarring along the rim of the labia and are closed with dissolvable sutures.
You can expect mild discomfort and swelling for a few days after the operation which usually disappears completely after 3-4 weeks. This can be managed by taking painkillers.
A week after surgery you should be able to return to work, and be able to resume normal daily activity after 2-3 weeks. However, we advise against sexual activity for 4-6 weeks following surgery, and tampons should not be used during the first six weeks.
In the first week after surgery the area is likely to be swollen and bruised. An ice pack or bag of frozen peas can be used to alleviate the discomfort and reduce the swelling but make sure that the ice does not come into direct contact with the skin. Wrap the ice pack with a soft towel to protect the skin. You will be given a leaflet that explains fully how to look after the vulval area in the week following surgery.
The labial incisions usually heal quickly and are rarely noticeable.
Aftercare
To ensure a swift recovery with optimum results we have recommended aftercare guidelines including:
- You will return from theatre with a sanitary pad in place, you must wear one of these continuously until your post-operative appointment.
- You will not be permitted to drive for 1 week following surgery; arrangements must be made for you to be collected.
- You must start to shower twice daily upon your discharge – DO NOT use soap directly on the area for the first 7 days.
- You must drink between 2 – 3 litres of water for the initial 2 weeks following surgery.
- Avoid wearing thong underwear for 6 weeks following surgery.
You practitioner and surgeon will be able to advise you on your complete Cosmetic Gynaecology aftercare guidelines
Labiaplasty prices
| Procedure | From |
|---|---|
| Labial reduction | £5,400 |
As every single patient is different, there is no set price for labiaplasty. Therefore, the cost of labial reduction surgery can differ on a case-by-case basis. In order to get a bespoke quote, find your nearest clinic and book a consultation with one of our nurses to discuss your requirements in complete confidence.
The price you are given will include everything from the procedure itself, to the cost of your overnight stay and aftercare appointments. All prices quoted are complete and there are no hidden extra costs.
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