Labiaplasty

The surgery is designed to reduce, or sometimes increase, the size of the labia minora (inner lips) due to either aesthetic or comfort concerns. It may also reshape the labia majora (outer skin folds).

Some women have naturally large or prominent labia, which can cause physical discomfort, chaffing, limited exercise or affect fitting clothes. By changing their size or shape, the procedure can create more symmetry. Dr Richardson tailors each procedure to his patients.

What to Expect During Your Consultation

The decision to have a labiaplasty is a highly personal one, especially when addressing such an intimate area. Dr Richardson and his team will guide you through the process and give you all the information you need to make a confident decision. During your first appointment, you will be able to discuss your concerns and reasons for seeking surgery. We will then talk you through your options and develop a surgical plan that works for you.

Good candidates for a labiaplasty are generally women who are over 18 years old, healthy, do not smoke or take any blood-thinning medications, and have concerns about the size or shape of their labia.

There is natural variation in both labia minora (‘lips’) and labia majora (skin folds) as can be seen in the The Labia Library. If you are unsure whether you are suitable candidate or would just like to explore your options, speaking with Dr Richardson and his team will help you make a decision that is right for you and your body.

The Procedure

Labiaplasty surgery can be different for each female patient and is based on their needs. You will discuss which techniques are best for you during your initial consultation with Dr Richardson. Generally, the procedure is performed under general anaesthetic, but may also be performed with local anaesthetic, or twilight sedation. The most suitable type of anaesthetic for you will be discussed at your consultation. A labiaplasty is typically performed as a day procedure and takes approximately one hour. Different techniques that Dr Richardson may use, include:

• The trim method: This involves trimming the outside edge of labia minora to reduce any excess, reshaping them to a lower profile.
• The wedge method: Involves removing a wedge the excess labia majora skin and stitching the two sides together. This technique places the scar away from the edge and is less common, but can yield great results for some patients.

Both methods are effective in reshaping the labia minora and creating a more ideal shape and size. In addition, some procedures may involve enlarging the labia minora. This can involve taking a small amount of fat from a different area of your body and injecting it into the labia minora (lips) or majora (folds). Once Dr Richardson has altered, reduced, or enhanced the labia, he will then carefully close your incisions with disolvable sutures.

Depending on your goals, Dr Richardson may recommend additional procedures to help reshape and refine your genital region. These include:

• Mon pubis reduction: This reduces the bulk of the fat pad under the pubic hair.
• Labia majora reduction: his reduces the skin folds on the outside of the labial lips. It may be performed with liposuction or removal of skin.
• Clitoral hood reduction: This procedure helps reduce the size or overhang of the clitoral hood which covers the clitoris. It is commonly performed in conjuction with a labiaplasty to help reduce the prominence of the labia.

Cost of a Labiaplasty

Given that each patient has different needs, we will outline pricing on a case by case basis. Some procedures are more complex than others, depending on your goals and which methods are required, and this can impact your fees. For example, we will need to account for the anaesthesia, hospital fees, and any medications. We will discuss the details of your surgery, your health, and your desired outcomes in order to give you a clearer idea of pricing.

Since this procedure is commonly performed for cosmetic and not health reasons, patients usully will have to cover their total fees for their procedure. Occasionally, you may be eligible for an MBS (Medicare Benefits Schedule) Item number, and if so, Medicare and private health insurance may cover a portion of your total fee. Dr Richardson and his team will answer any further questions during your first appointment.

Aftercare

Although recovery is relatively quick compared to other procedures, it can still take several weeks. Labiaplasty procedures are performed as a day-case. You should organise a family member or trusted friend to drive you home and stay with you for the first day or so to help you with your daily activities. You will be supplied with prescription medications to control any discomfort and help avoid constipation. You should rest on your back with a pillow lifting your bottom for the first three days, and apply ice to the operated area. You will be given instructions on how care for yourself, including showering and going to the toilet, and when you may resume light activities.

Surgery on this delicate area requires proper post-op care. This means you should follow our advice in order to help your body heal quickly. For example, you will need to take some time off work to rest and ensure that your body has time to recover. Dr Richardson may also advise you to:

• Refrain from strenuous exercise or heavy lifting
• Rest on your back with a pillow lifting your bottom for the first three days
• Gently wash and pat-dry the area after going to the toilet
• Use cool pads to help reduce discomfort
• Do not smoke, as this can slow your healing
• Keep your incision areas clean and dry
• Drink plenty of water and eat a healthy diet
• Contact us if any issues arise

As a guide, most patients can expect the following recovery after labiaplasty surgery:

• Initial discomfort: 1 week
• Return to activity: 3-5 days
• Return to exercise: gentle walk after 1 week, gym from 6-8 weeks (including horse-riding or cycling)
• Return to work: 1 week
• Return to driving: 1-2* weeks. *Patients must be fully alert, no longer taking any sedating medications, and be able to move freely without restriction
• Return to travel: 1-2 weeks
• Return to sexual activity: 6 weeks

Risks and Complications

Healing in this delicate area takes time, and as with any surgical procedure, there are some complications. Whilst not common, patients should endeavour to be well informed of these before surgery. They include:

• Scarring
• Swelling and bruising
• Sensitivity
• Slow wound healing
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Unwanted results