Quick answer
What does a labiaplasty involve?
Labiaplasty reshapes the labia minora or majora, either because their size causes discomfort during exercise or sex, or for appearance. It takes about sixty to ninety minutes under local anaesthetic or conscious sedation, as a day case. Most women return to ordinary activity within one to two weeks.
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that alters the size or shape of the labia — the folds of skin around the vaginal opening. It is one of the more commonly requested procedures in cosmetic gynaecology, and one of the most straightforward.
Why women have it done
For two reasons, often at the same time.
Function. Larger labia can chafe or catch during cycling, running, riding or sex. That is a daily irritation, not a cosmetic quibble, and it is a perfectly good reason to operate.
Appearance. Some women simply do not like how it looks and want it changed. That is also a perfectly good reason, and it needs no further explanation than that.
What the operation involves
The procedure can be performed on the inner labia (labia minora) or the outer labia (labia majora), depending on what is causing the problem. It takes roughly one to two hours and is usually done under local anaesthetic or conscious sedation — you do not normally need a general anaesthetic or an overnight stay.
Recovery
Recovery varies, but most women return to work and ordinary activity within a few days. Swelling settles over a few weeks, and I will give you specific guidance on exercise and sex before you leave.
Deciding
Come and be examined before you decide anything. There is a wide normal range in labial anatomy, and part of my job in that first appointment is to tell you honestly whether surgery would actually improve what is bothering you.
Arrange a consultation to discuss it properly.
