LABIOPLASTY

OBJECTIVES

Labia minora reduction, also called labiaplasty or labioplasty, is the surgical procedure performed to reduce the labia minora. The large size of labia minora may cause embarrassment with disconfort in tight pants, sports or during sexual activity and can interfere with hygiene and can cause irritation.

Some women are born with enlarged labia whereas others develop the enlargement with age or from child-birth.

PROCEDURE OVERVIEW

The labia minora reduction surgery is relatively minor, is not very uncomfortable and takes 2 hours. Labioplasty is performed with magnification to assure an accurate approximation of the normal labial edges, whereas the other technique take 30 minutes and result in a scar line as the labial edge; this scar can cause chronic disfigurement and discomfort. General anesthesia is usually used, but local anesthesia with sedation is possible. The complication rate from labioplasty is extremely low.

RECOVERY

The patient will be ready to return to work and normal activity in 5 to 7 days and to sexual relations in about 6 weeks after surgery.