Labiaplasty is a plastic surgery of intimate parts. This is an operation in which excessive skin and labial tissue is removed and adjusted to the desired shape. The operation is especially sought after by women in whom the abnormal length and shape of the labia disturbs their intimate life, is unpleasant for wearing swimwear or interferes with doing sport. The reasons for labiaplasty, however, can also be purely aesthetic, when the enlarged genitalia take away a woman’s self-confidence. Labia in an abnormal state is an unpleasant but easily resolved matter. This relatively fast procedure has a great advantage – the skin in this area usually heals very quickly. Rejuvenation of the pubic area can greatly improve a woman’s personal and sexual life.

Before the operation

In addition to the patient being sexually mature and undergoing a thorough pre-operative examination and consultation, no further complex preparation is required for the procedure.

Course of the operation

Labiaplasty is usually done under total anaesthesia, but it can also be done with deadening of the local area. During the procedure, excess tissue is surgically removed. The result is labia reduction and renewed elasticity within 6 weeks of undergoing the operation. With atrophy of the large labia, that is, with a loss of their volume and elasticity, the surgery can also be used for their enlargement.

The incision and the extent of tissue removal are performed with respect to maximum retention of nerve endings and sensitivity. We use absorbable stitches at our clinic, which fall out after a period of about 2 weeks. In addition to routine check-ups, no further invasive medical care is required. The scar after the operation itself is very subtle and nearly invisible. The recommended stay in the hospital after the operation is usually no longer than one day.

Post-operative regimen and limitations

Immediately after the operation, patients are advised to wear loose clothing. Post-operative pain is usually rather mild. Common anti-pain medications are used to relieve pain and discomfort. Patients usually go home the day after a labiaplasty operation. It is recommended that patients maintain a quiet regimen for about one week after the operation, that they avoid long periods of sitting, including longer car journeys, and conduct personal hygiene several times a day. It is also advisable to shower with soap designed for intimate hygiene or a quality gentle disinfectant soap after each visit to the toilet and to cover the wound area with an intimate pad.

After the procedure, the parts operated on are very swollen due to the operation and the injection of anaesthetics. The swelling peaks in the first 48 to 72 hours after the procedure and gradually recedes over several weeks. Post-operative check-ups with the doctor commonly come 7 days after the procedure. Smaller swellings may last for a long time, and the operation site will get its definitive shape in about 6 weeks, after which time the patient can again begin to live without any limitations.