Labia Correction

Every woman is constructed slightly differently. It is not uncommon for a woman to feel dissatisfied with her labia minora (inner lips of the vagina), especially if they are particularly long. In many cases women are just not happy with parts of their genitalia. Some women were born with large lips, others develop them after child birth or after years of sexual activity. This can be embarrassing, uncomfortable and can even lead to sexual dissatisfaction or difficulty. Women with exceptionally long or unequal lengths of the labia minora can have them aesthetically reshaped.

What does the surgery involve?
The procedure is performed in hospital, usually under general anaesthetic and is done in one of two ways. Your surgeon will trim the inner folds so that they no longer protrude – either by reducing the edges of the labia, or by snipping out a 'V' shape wedge of tissue. Then the remaining edges are carefully sewn back together taking care to obtain as natural a result as possible.

How long does the surgery take?
Surgery is carried out under general anaesthetic or local anaesthetic with sedation and will take between 1-2 hours. Patients can go home after three hours in the recovery room but must wait about six weeks before puckering their new lips. As with any surgery, there can be complications. There can be a loss of feeling and scarring but problems are rare.

What will happen in the recovery period?
After surgery, women may experience some mild discomfort and swelling, which usually disappears completely after 1-2 weeks. The labial incisions usually heal quickly and are rarely noticeable. After the procedure you will wear a panty liner. The sutures dissolve so there is no need for physical removal. You are advised to avoid vigorous exercise for 2 weeks and vaginal intercourse for 4 weeks. A daily bath or gentle shower ensures quick healing which is usually complete within two weeks. Follow up visits will be scheduled to check on your progress.

What is the recovery time?
This will depend on the individual patient however recovery is quite rapid – a week after surgery you should be able to return to work, and be able to resume normal activity after 2-3 weeks.

What can I expect from the surgery?
You have to be realistic in your expectations. The surgery will restore a more normal appearance to the genitalia. In most cases the surgery is virtually undetectable after complete healing and patients are extremely pleased with the final results.