The labia minora (the inner lips surrounding the entrance to the vagina) grow during puberty and vary enormously in size and thickness. They are rarely symmetrical and if they are particularly enlarged women find them uncomfortable and embarrassing. They are prone to irritation wearing tight clothing and sports women and horse riders experience particular discomfort. Many women find the size and appearance of their labia minora embarrassing with a sexual partner.
Tears and stretching of the labia minora can also occur during childbirth. Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure which reduces the size of the labia minora so that they are less obtrusive and equal on both sides.
After childbirth the vaginal muscles are stretched and, although postnatal physiotherapy and exercises can help, the vagina often does not regain its normal tone and remains lax. This can cause dissatisfaction for both partners during sexual intercourse.
The perineal body (the muscle between the vagina and the anus) can also be damaged by childbirth which results in the entrance to the vagina gaping open.
Vaginoplasty, or vaginal rejuvenation, is a procedure that corrects these problems resulting in a tighter feel, both inside and at the entrance to the vagina.
After discharge from hospital you can call the hospital day or night for any advice and, should the need arise, you can visit the hospital to see the resident doctor. In the event of a complication directly related to your surgery, which may require further treatment, your surgeon and hospital will provide all necessary care without further cost (exclusions apply). You will be seen by your surgeon for a follow up visit after six weeks and you will be given detailed information about your care during the immediate post operative period.
All surgical procedures carry some risk. Your surgeon will discuss these in detail with you at your consultation.
Duration of Surgery: 30 minutes.
Hospital stay: 8 hours (approximate)
Anaesthesia: General
Recovery Period: 2-4 weeks approximate
As with all surgery there is always a small risk of complications. The risk of infection is reduced by antibiotics given during the procedure but if infection does occur there will be increased pain and delay in healing.
The sutures that are used are the same as after childbirth and dissolve naturally after 5-7 days. They do not usually need to be removed.
Scarring can occur which can make the labia minora more thickened. The labia minora form part of the erogenous zone at the entrance to the vagina and some loss of sensation can occur. Most sexual pleasure, however, occurs as a result of stimulation to the clitoris which is not disturbed during labiapiasty. Most women find that their sexual confidence improves after labiaplasty and therefore sexual function and pleasure is enhanced.
Usually 2-4 weeks after the procedure.
You should be comfortable enough to drive after 2 weeks but you should always check with your insurance company first.
You should be able to return to work within 2-4 weeks of the surgery.
Sexual activity can be resumed 4-6 weeks after the procedure.
Mr Joseph Walls
Mr Walls is a consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon in the NHS and specialising in skin cancer, facial, breast and abdominal reconstruction.
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