Labia Reductions

Labia reduction, also called labiaplasty is designed to remove excess labia minora or “small lips” of the vulva to achieve a more natural appearance.

Why have a Labia Reduction?

• Reduce the size of the abnormally enlarged labia minora.
• Relieve the discomfort caused by enlarged labia.
• Restore a more natural appearance of the labia and improve self-image and self-confidence.
• Rejuvenate, and restore youthful appearance.
• Reduce the size of the abnormally enlarged labia minora.

Abnormally enlarged labia minora can be a source of physical discomfort and psychological trauma for many women. These women are commonly too embarrassed to seek help to restore a normal appearance to their genitalia. Enlargement of the labia minora can be caused by a variety of factors, including pregnancy and childbirth, some sports and hormonal effects.

Who is suitable for Labia Reduction?
Women who dislike the large size of their labia minora, which may cause embarrassment with a sexual partner or discomfort in tight pants, with sports, or during sexual intercourse. Some women are born with enlarged labia and therefore opt to have labia reduction; whereas others develop the enlargement with age or from child-birth.

What to think about at this stage
It is important that before you see the surgeon, you consider what you are trying to achieve from your surgery. A careful assessment will be required and the optimum treatment to achieve the best result will be discussed at the time of your Consultation

How is Labia Reduction performed?

• The operation is performed under general anaesthesia
• It takes about sixty minutes
• Most patients stay in hospital for one night

As with most surgical procedures, there are many options, depending upon the patient’s wishes, technical considerations and surgeon preferences. The objective is to obtain a result as natural looking as possible with minimal scarring.

At consultation, Mr Malik will advise upon the best option for you.

Following the operation
As with all surgery, you should expect some swelling, bruising and discomfort. Most patients notice a significant improvement in the bruising and swelling after the first two weeks but it can take some time for everything to settle completely. Sexual activity can be resumed in about four to six weeks. Most patients return to work after 7-10 days.

As with all scars, the scars will fade over a period of time. In many women, they heal to form very faint white lines. However, it is important to remember that no surgical scar ever totally disappears.

Risks & Complications
Cosmetic surgery is amongst the very safest of medical procedures. However, all patients must understand and accept that no surgical procedure is absolutely free from risk.

The complication rate from labia reduction is extremely low. Problems with healing such as opening of scar, under or overcorrection, scarring and/or pain following the procedure, are also risks, however can occur as with any vaginal surgery and may require further surgery or revision. The risk of any of these problems is less than 1%, however you should be aware of the possibility of risks and revision surgery.

At consultation, Mr Malik will discuss these risks with you.
While labia reduction may not totally change your life, it can enhance your self-confidence and in many cases allow you to enjoy many aspects of your life more fully!