Labiaplasty

What is a labiaplasty?

A labiaplasty is a surgical procedure our Specialist Plastic Surgeons perform in Perth that focuses on reducing and/or reshaping the folds of skin or ‘lips’ at the entrance to the vagina, known as the labia. Our Specialist Plastic Surgeons can perform this surgery on the labia minora (the inner lips) however, they do not perform surgery on the labia majora (the outer lips) or the clitoral hood. They also do not perform hymenoplasty or vaginoplasty surgery, or “vaginal rejuvenation” procedures.

This procedure can be performed for aesthetic (cosmetic) purposes or for medical/functional reasons, the latter being dependent on strict Medicare eligibility criteria.

Some patients also request changes to their mons pubis (the mound of flesh on top of a woman’s pubic bone that is covered by pubic hair), which can be performed in conjunction with a labiaplasty, or as part of a body contouring procedure.

Please note patients must be aged 17 years or older to book an appointment to discuss this procedure, and aged 18 years or older to undergo labiaplasty surgery. 

What factors may influence the decision to have labiaplasty surgery?

The labia minora can vary significantly in appearance among women and you may wish to have a labiaplasty procedure to change the appearance, size or shape of your labia minora if it extends beyond the length of the labia majora. A labiaplasty may also be a benefit if you are experiencing physical discomfort when wearing tight clothes or having sexual intercourse. A labiaplasty can minimise these problems however, this procedure is highly individualised and may not be suitable for all patients.

Is labiaplasty surgery right for me?

A consultation with your Specialist Plastic Surgeon is the first step when you are considering labiaplasty surgery. During this consultation, it is important to openly communicate your goals and expectations regarding your appearance. During the consultation, your surgeon will conduct a thorough examination and attentively listen to and address your concerns prior to discussing the most suitable options for your individual circumstances.

How is a labiaplasty performed?

The unwanted labial tissue is removed by the surgeon and the labia minora is resized and reshaped so that they no longer protrude beyond the labia majora. Dissolving sutures are used so as to minimise any discomfort of having them removed and as the labia have well-developed nerve and blood supplies, they are generally quick to heal.

Labiaplasty surgery is performed in Perth in a fully-accredited hospital as a day case procedure under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia.

Are there any risks and complications of labiaplasty surgery?

All plastic, cosmetic and reconstructive surgical procedures come with risks and potential complications. To ensure successful surgery, it is crucial to understand and minimise these risks. Whilst all measures are taken to mitigate risks, some risks are unavoidable.

All information on this page is general in nature – your Specialist Plastic Surgeon will discuss the specific risks and complications pertinent to your individual surgical procedure during your consultation. General risks for surgery are listed here.

Specific risks related to labiaplasty surgery include, but are not limited to:

• Asymmetry in the appearance of the labia following the surgery.
• Overcorrection or undercorrection of the labia.
• Requirement for further surgery to address complications.

Will the labiaplasty procedure leave any scars?

Although your surgeon will make every effort to keep them as inconspicuous as possible, scars are the inevitable result of any surgery. Scars from this procedure though are generally minimal and well hidden. Some patients have a tendency to develop keloid or hypertrophic scars and you should advise your surgeon if you are aware of this tendency in yourself.

What results can I expect from a labiaplasty?

The primary objective of your surgery is to reduce your labia minora to a size and shape that is in better proportion with your labia majora and makes you feel more comfortable. Your surgeon is the best person to determine whether your expectations are achievable. It is important to understand a labiaplasty will not make a vagina smaller or tighter.

When can I resume normal activities following a labiaplasty?

Many patients return to normal activities after one week or sooner.

It is important to note however, that each patient requires adequate time, support, and proper postoperative care to facilitate their recovery process. Due to individual variations in healing abilities and pain tolerance, the duration of recovery and ability to engage in various activities may differ among patients.

How much does this procedure cost?

Please contact us online or call us on (08) 9380 0333 and one of our medical secretaries can provide you with more information. Please note that pricing does vary from case to case.

Where can I find more information?

The Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) website is a helpful and reliable source of information online. Their website is an excellent place to research a range of surgical procedures and non-surgical treatments, and view video animations.