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March 4, 2025 
Junad Miah Questions About Labiaplasty
What is Labiaplasty?
Are There Different Types of Labiaplasty?
Is Labiaplasty a New Procedure?
How Common is Labiaplasty Surgery?
What Type of Surgeons Perform Labiaplasty Surgery?
Questions About the Labia
What is a ‘Normal Labia’?
What is Labial Hypertrophy?
What Causes the Labia to Grow?
Questions Addressing Why Women Get Labiaplasty
Why Get Labiaplasty?
What Age Can a Woman Get a Labiaplasty?
Can I Have a Labiaplasty Postpartum?
Questions About the Labiaplasty Procedure
Can Labiaplasty Reduce Vaginal Sensation?
Does Labiaplasty Correct Vaginal Tightness?
Can I Stay Awake for the Procedure?
What are the Most Common Labiaplasty Techniques?
How Will I Feel After the Surgery?
Is Labiaplasty Recovery Painful?
How Long Until Labiaplasty Swelling Reduces?
Can I Drive Home After Labiaplasty Surgery?
When Will My Stitches Be Removed?
How Can I Speed Up My Labiaplasty Recovery?
When Should I Call My Surgeon?
Can My Skin Grow Back After a Labiaplasty?
I Want to Get Labiaplasty: What Should I Do?
Labiaplasty is a type of genital surgery for women looking to change the size, shape and/or look of their labia. Many women undergo the procedure for cosmetic reasons, but it can also be performed to resolve physical discomfort.
Whatever your reasons for exploring labiaplasty surgery, it’s likely you have numerous questions. In this article, we answer your most frequently asked questions so that you can make an informed choice as to whether or not labiaplasty surgery is right for you.
Let’s get started.
Questions About Labiaplasty
What is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that works to reshape or reduce the size of the labia (the inner ‘lips’ of the vulva). The purpose is to restore women’s confidence and comfort in their bodies.
The team at Gynaedoctors offer a specialist clinic for labiaplasty surgery where women can discuss their needs and receive treatment from some of the UK’s most experienced and expert gynaecologists.
Are There Different Types of Labiaplasty?
Yes, there are different types of labiaplasty that seek to correct different parts of a woman’s labia. These are:
Unilateral Labiaplasty: this is surgery that is carried out on one side of the labia only.
Bilateral Labiaplasty: this is the type of labiaplasty most women are aware of as it involves surgically enhancing both sides of the labia in one procedure.
Is Labiaplasty a New Procedure?
Although different forms of genital surgery (for the purpose of reducing discomfort and improving aesthetic) have been performed on women since as early as the seventh century, labiaplasty itself is a relatively new procedure, having only become available in the last couple of decades.
However, labiaplasty has quickly grown in popularity. In fact, according to The National Library of Medicine, “the demand for labiaplasty has increased rapidly over the last 10 to 15 years.” Many attribute its rising popularity to the markedly positive narrative surrounding cosmetic surgery for women, as well as advancements in surgical techniques.
How Common is Labiaplasty Surgery?
Labiasplasty’s, like many other cosmetic surgeries in the UK, are being performed more and more. According to The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, the rise in cosmetic surgeries indicates that “people are being influenced by wellness and improving the quality of their lives. Cosmetic surgery, when performed safely by a qualified plastic surgeon, has a hugely positive psychological impact.”
What Type of Surgeons Perform Labiaplasty Surgery?
Labiaplasty is a detailed and intimate surgery. Therefore, it is typically performed by both gynaecologists and plastic surgeons. It is worth noting that cosmetic surgeons do not necessarily fall into this bracket. So, you must choose your surgeon carefully.
Questions About the Labia
What is a ‘Normal Labia’?
Most women considering labiaplasty worry that their labia is not normal. So, what is a normal labia? The answer is; there isn’t one. A normal labia doesn’t exist. All labias are different. They can be large, small, dark in colour, light in colour, short, long, lumpy, or not. As long as you don’t have any medical concerns with your labia, there is technically nothing ‘wrong’ or ‘abnormal’ about it.
What is Labial Hypertrophy?
Labial Hypertrophy is a medical condition that causes the labia to become enlarged. There are many causes, from genetics and hormonal changes to childbirth and other factors.
However, Labial Hypertrophy can cause women significant discomfort, pain, and self-consciousness. It can impact what a woman wears and how she feels in her body.
What’s more, it can also interfere with sexual intercourse, putting strain on a woman’s intimate relationships. Labiaplasty seeks to fix these issues and restore a woman’s confidence and comfort in her body.
What Causes the Labia to Grow?
The labia changes over the course of a woman’s life and there are many things that can cause these changes, such as: puberty, pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause. If you are unhappy with the changes in your labia, please book an appointment to speak with us.
Questions Addressing Why Women Get Labiaplasty
Why Get Labiaplasty?
There are many reasons why women request a labiaplasty, from cosmetic to medical. Some of the most common reasons are:
- Physical discomfort
- Self-esteem issues
- Hygiene concerns
- Clothing discomfort
- Labia changes during postpartum
Whatever reason a woman has for being unhappy with her labia, we believe she should be allowed to make a change if she wants to. Labiaplasty offers women the chance to improve their quality of life and happiness.
What Age Can a Woman Get a Labiaplasty?
A woman must be at least 18 years old to be accepted for a labiaplasty. Labiaplasty’s are generally not performed on women under the age of 18 as this is still considered puberty and therefore the labia is still developing and it may change for the better during this time.
Can I Have a Labiaplasty Postpartum?
Yes, you can have a labiaplasty postpartum. However, we advise that women only undergo surgery once they have stopped breastfeeding for six months. Women who are pregnant are generally not accepted for labiaplasty.
Questions About the Labiaplasty Procedure
We have written a comprehensive guide that covers everything you need to know about labiaplasty. So, we encourage you to learn more about the procedure, recovery, and aftercare prior to your surgery. Below we address some of your most frequently asked questions.
Can Labiaplasty Reduce Vaginal Sensation?
Once your labiaplasty has been given time to fully heal (at least six weeks), you should experience no change in vaginal sensation. In fact, while it’s not a guarantee, most women actually report an increase in sensation following a labiaplasty.
Does Labiaplasty Correct Vaginal Tightness?
Unfortunately, a labiaplasty does not change, correct, or improve vaginal tightness. If you have a loose vagina, a labiaplasty will not fix this as it is a surgery performed on the outer lips of the vagina.
Can I Stay Awake for the Procedure?
Yes, you can choose to stay awake during the procedure if you wish to. However, if your labiaplasty is expected to be particularly complex, your surgeon will likely recommend a general aesthetic to help you feel more comfortable.
What are the Most Common Labiaplasty Techniques?
The specific labiaplasty techniques your surgeon uses will depend on your individual case and, of course, your specific goals. These will be discussed with you prior to surgery. However, for your information, the most common labiaplasty techniques are:
- Wedge Resection: this technique involves removing a triangular piece of tissue from the middle of the labia and sewing the edges together to reduce the labia’s size and shape.
- Edge Resection: this technique involves trimming the edges of the labia and sewing them together.
- Z-plasty: this technique involves reshaping the labia by making a series of small incisions and then repositioning the skin to create the desired look.
How Will I Feel After the Surgery?
Most women experience some swelling and discomfort following their surgery. Recovery time can vary depending on how complex your procedure was, however you should expect to rest and avoid strenuous activities for at least six weeks. Following the advice and giving your body the time it needs to recover will make a big difference in your recovery and help you get back to normal sooner.
Is Labiaplasty Recovery Painful?
Any pain or discomfort you experience during your recovery is usually minimal and should be easily managed with over-the-counter painkillers. If you are experiencing severe pain or discomfort, please reach out to your medical team who will be able to help.
How Long Until Labiaplasty Swelling Reduces?
Swelling is common after a labiaplasty and is a good indication that your body is trying to heal. The amount of swelling you experience and the time it takes for that swelling to reduce will depend on your individual case, the surgery techniques used, and how well you rest while in recovery.
Can I Drive Home After Labiaplasty Surgery?
No, you should not drive yourself home after labiaplasty surgery – even if you were awake for the procedure. We advise that patients arrange someone to drive them home after surgery.
When Will My Stitches Be Removed?
The great thing about labiaplasty is that surgeons use dissolvable stitches. This means there is no need to have your stitches removed. They will simply be absorbed by your body during the healing process. This typically takes about 4 weeks.
How Can I Speed Up My Labiaplasty Recovery?
Your body will recover in its own time, so it’s important to be patient. While these tips may not speed things up exactly, they will aid in your recovery:
- Follow all post-op recommendations provided to you by your surgeon.
- Take all prescribed medications to promote healing and minimise discomfort.
- Keep the surgical area clean and dry.
- Wear sanitary pads to absorb any bleeding or discharge during healing. Change your sanitary towel regularly to avoid infection.
- Keep your legs elevated to reduce swelling.
- Avoid sitting for long periods of time.
- Avoid sexual intercourse and strenuous activity for 4-6 weeks or until your surgeon says it is safe to do so.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing during your recovery to avoid putting pressure on the surgical site.
- Go to all follow-up appointments with your surgeon.
When Should I Call My Surgeon?
If, during your recovery, you have any concerns about your surgical site, it is important to call your surgeon to discuss these. We recommend that you call your surgeon if you experience:
- The surgical site opening.
- Severe pain when using the toilet.
- A fever.
- Excessive swelling of the surgical area.
- Worsening discomfort and pain over time.
- Increased bleeding or clotting.
Your surgeon will be able to advise you on your next steps.
Can My Skin Grow Back After a Labiaplasty?
No, your skin shouldn’t grow back after a labiaplasty. However, it will stretch over time – especially during childbirth. So, if you have a labiaplasty and then have children you should expect your labia to change as a result. In which case, it may be that you need to come back and have the surgery again.
I Want to Get Labiaplasty: What Should I Do?
If you want to get labiaplasty, we recommend that you schedule a consultation with our team. This consultation will allow you to be clinically assessed and to share your concerns and goals with us. If you decide to go ahead with the surgery, we will get this booked in at a time that is convenient for you.
For more information about labiaplasty and other cosmetic surgeries, we encourage you to browse our blog. We are passionate about supporting women as they seek to improve their confidence, quality of life, and comfort in their bodies through cosmetic surgery.
