Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure in which the size and shape of the inner lip (labia minora) tissue is reshaped. "Labium" means lip in Latin; the area consists of two parts: the outer lips (labia majora) and the inner lips (labia minora). The primary aim of the procedure is to relieve physical complaints caused by the size of the tissue.
Why does enlargement of the inner labia occur?
- Hereditary structure — in many cases the tissue is wide and loose from birth
- Normal (vaginal) childbirth
- Trauma to the genital area
- Advanced age and natural loosening of the tissue
- Significant weight gain and loss
Asymmetry between the two sides is also common and can be corrected with the same procedure.
Which complaints call for the procedure?
Wide and loose inner labial tissue can cause concrete difficulties in daily life:
| Area of complaint | Problem experienced |
|---|---|
| Clothing | Discomfort when wearing tight trousers, leggings and swimwear |
| Movement | Friction when walking, running and cycling |
| Skin health | Friction-related irritation and a tendency to infection |
| Hygiene | Difficulty keeping the area clean |
The presence and degree of these complaints is the main criterion determining whether the procedure is suitable. Development is expected to be complete; if there is an active infection, the procedure is postponed.
How is labiaplasty performed?
The procedure is performed by numbing the area (local anaesthesia; with sedation or general anaesthesia if preferred). Excess tissue is removed in a way that preserves the natural edge structure and the blood supply of the tissue; the inner lips are reduced to an extent where they do not hang down between the outer lips. The sutures dissolve on their own and do not need to be removed. The procedure takes about half an hour on average and the patient can go home shortly afterwards.
Recovery process
| Period | What to expect |
|---|---|
| First 1-2 days | Pain may occur; it is easily controlled with painkillers |
| 1-2 weeks | Itching, pain and swelling gradually decrease and pass |
| 1 week | Return to social life is possible |
| 4 weeks | Activities that put pressure on the area, such as cycling and horse riding, and sports are postponed |
| 6 weeks | Waiting for this period before sexual intercourse is recommended |
| A few months | The tissue softens completely and takes its final shape |
Effect on sensation and function
In the techniques used, preserving the areas rich in nerve endings is essential; for this reason, an adverse effect on sensation is not expected. In the first weeks after surgery, temporary tenderness or numbness may be felt in the area; this resolves with healing.
Risks
Bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing, asymmetry between the two sides and separation of the incision line are possible. Keeping the area clean and dry after surgery, avoiding tight clothing for a while and following the care instructions given by your doctor reduce these risks. If not performed by specialist physicians, problems affecting sexual pleasure may occur.
Your expectations and current complaints are discussed in detail during the consultation. For other procedures, see the body aesthetics page; for an assessment, you can contact the clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure in which the size or shape of the inner lip (labium minus) tissue of the genital area is reshaped. Enlargement of the inner labia due to congenital structure, childbirth or ageing can cause discomfort when sitting, during sports, in tight clothing, during sexual intercourse and in maintaining hygiene. The primary aim of the procedure is to relieve these functional complaints.
Who is genital aesthetic surgery suitable for?
It is suitable for people who experience physical discomfort; who have difficulty sitting, walking, doing sports or with everyday clothing; who find it hard to maintain hygiene; and who have complaints arising from this condition. Development is expected to be complete. If there is an active infection, the procedure is postponed. Suitability is assessed together after an examination and a detailed discussion.
How is genital aesthetic surgery performed?
The procedure is mostly performed under local anaesthesia with sedation, or under general anaesthesia if preferred. Excess tissue is removed in a way that preserves the natural edge structure and the blood supply of the tissue; self-dissolving sutures are used. It takes about 1 hour and you usually go home the same day. The technique is chosen according to the person's anatomy and complaint.
How does recovery progress?
In the first days there is swelling and tenderness; this is controlled with cold compresses and medication. Return to desk work is usually possible within 3-7 days. Activities that put pressure on the area, such as cycling and horse riding, and sports are postponed for about 4 weeks. Waiting 6 weeks before sexual intercourse is generally recommended. It takes a few months for the tissue to soften completely.
Does the procedure affect sexual sensation?
In the techniques used, preserving the areas rich in nerve endings is essential; for this reason, an adverse effect on sensation is not expected. In the first weeks after surgery, temporary tenderness or numbness may be felt in the area; this resolves with healing. Your existing complaints and expectations are discussed in detail during the consultation.