Labiaplasty is a safe, effective cosmetic surgery that decreases the size of the labia, or the lips of the vulva. Although something of a taboo in years past, genital cosmetic procedures have gained popularity, and have been proven to yield significant improvements in quality of life for many women.(1) In recent years, British women in particular have liberated themselves from the dated, somewhat cringeworthy social norms of Victorian prudishness surrounding the ins and outs of our intimate anatomy. We no longer tiptoe around the subject, and are now increasingly more accustomed to openly discussing our sexual health, exploring our bodily autonomy, and recognising changes in our own sexual anatomy. The topic of labiaplasty should not be left out of the conversation.
About
Women have two sets of labia protecting the vulva:
Labia majora
The labia majora are the outermost protective folds of tissue. They extend from the middle of the pubic area (known as the mons pubis) to the perineum. They are responsible for protecting the inner lips and form a fatty barrier to shield this sensitive area.
Labia minora
The second set of folds is the labia minora. These are the smaller, innermost protrusions of skin around the vulva that provide protection and lubrication to the urethra and the vaginal opening. These folds are usually the ones altered in labiaplasty.
We know that in the past, not every woman had the option to even mention this part of her femininity. Luckily, the times are changing! And, renowned Harley Street plastic surgeon Dr Grant Hamlet is here to help. He and his friendly staff are ready to assist you. Feel free to ring The Hamlet Clinic at 0207-1274377 to learn more about the cosmetic surgeries that could make a real difference for you.
What Causes Labial Hypertrophy?
Labial hypertrophy is a medical term used to describe the larger than normal appearance of the labia. Though we are all aware that every vulva is unique, the atypical appearance and shape of our nether regions can lead to discomfort and apprehension. However, there are always ways to improve our self-esteem and self-image, and we should not be embarrassed about looking for cosmetic answers to cosmetic problems!
There are a number of conditions that contribute to increased labial protrusion. These include:
- Genetics
- Vaginal childbirth
- Aging
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Trauma
The physical symptoms of elongated labia minora are often embarrassing and impractical. Enlarged labial folds can interfere with exercise or prevent us from wearing tight-fitting clothing comfortably. In addition, some patients have reported that it has even made intimacy with their partner difficult. One recent study showed that almost half of the women they surveyed experienced pain during intercourse due to elongated labia.(2) Nobody wants what should be a passionate, exciting encounter disturbed by tugging and chafing where there should only be pleasurable sensations. That’s why The Hamlet Clinic is here to help you every step of the way. With a wide range of options to help your body positivity, take a look here to choose a procedure that could boost your confidence in your body!
Mum’s the Word
Unsurprisingly, one of the biggest factors contributing to changes in the shape and length of the labia is childbirth. Bringing a beautiful baby into the world is one of the most rewarding, wonderful, and challenging things many women face in their lifetime, and it can often change our bodies in drastic ways. Publicly, we might put on a brave face about it, but privately, we could feel a tinge of sadness, and may not even feel like the same person as before. If this sounds familiar, surgery is certainly an option. Backed up by scientific data, studies have shown that up to 90-95% of women who underwent genital cosmetic surgery were satisfied with the results.(3) You deserve comfort and confidence. Schedule an appointment now to speak to Dr Hamlet about the cosmetic surgery options open to you, or visit the website to browse our services.
Benefits of Labiaplasty
We are all beautifully unique, and no two women are created the same. As such, you deserve a labiaplasty that is tailored to your individual needs. Some of the benefits of labiaplasty include:
- Increased body confidence
- More aesthetically satisfying shape
- Elimination of painful intercourse due to tugging and chafing
- Comfort in tighter fitting clothing during physical activity
You deserve to feel good about your body, and making a cosmetic change can give us that much-needed boost of self-confidence. To find out more about the effectiveness and availability of the latest cosmetic techniques in London, visit our blog. See Dr Hamlet’s work in action for yourself in this Sunday Times Magazine article!
Candidates
Dr Hamlet invites women who are sexually mature and generally in good health to consider labiaplasty as a treatment option. This surgery works best for women who are experiencing physical or emotional dissatisfaction with their labia. This could be due to changes that have been exacerbated by hereditary features, having a baby, fluctuations in hormones, or the effects of aging. It is important to know that we at The Hamlet Clinic will work in a dignified, discreet way to pair you with an accomplished and compassionate plastic surgeon who will find the best personalised treatment plan for you.
Personal Consultation
Dr Hamlet ensures that each of his patients receives world-class care. As a cosmetic surgeon, he works closely with excellent plastic surgeons who can compassionately and expertly perform this surgery. During your consultation, there is no need to be embarrassed about telling your surgeon exactly what problems you are experiencing. Once you have discussed your issues and gone over some questions about your general health, they may ask for details about your personal expectations for the procedure, so that they can make an informed decision as to the perfect plan to fit your needs.
Preparing for the Big Day
To prepare for a labiaplasty procedure, you will need to ensure you do the following things:
- Stop the use of any nicotine products (cigarettes, vape pen, gum, patches)
- Stop using medications that could impede your ability to heal
- Arrange for a lift from the clinic after your surgery
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes the day of, and after your surgery date
Rest assured, you will be provided care of the highest quality in a discreet, professional manner. Visit our website for an array of cosmetic procedure options to find your ideal match!
The Labiaplasty Procedure
Labiaplasties are performed using two innovative techniques. Each uses a slightly different technique to achieve the desired results.
Trim method labiaplasty
The trim method labiaplasty technique is sometimes known as the edge excision or linear labiaplasty. It removes the redundant tissue from the outermost edge of the labia minora, improving the size and shape of the vulva. The trim method is known to be a great choice for women who have thick labia that are darkly pigmented. (3)
Wedge method labiaplasty
In a wedge method labiaplasty, a surgeon removes a wedge-shaped piece of tissue to reshape the labia. It is among the most common labiaplasty surgeries worldwide and is an excellent choice for women with thinner, well-defined labia edges.(4)
Recovery from a Labiaplasty
With care and caution, you will be able to return to light activities in about 2-5 days. Despite the fact that the overall effects of your labiaplasty may take a few months to see, you will notice the difference in the appearance of your labia after the temporary swelling has gone down. Initially, there will be some pain and discomfort as your body heals, so we recommend putting a covered ice pack on the area and taking over-the-counter painkillers for relief. Your surgeon will ask you to follow these directions carefully:
- Refrain from having sexual intercourse for up to six weeks after the procedure
- Wear loose fitting underwear that does not rub against the healing area
- Do not use tampons until you have been told it is safe to do so
- Don’t use swimming pools or hot tubs you’re told it is safe to do so
- Avoid long periods of activity that could irritate the healing area (long periods sitting down, scratching or pulling the area)
It is imperative to us that you take good care of yourself for the best cosmetic surgery results.
Results
Patients are quick to comment on their excellent postoperative results. During your follow-up consultation, he will ensure you are healing as expected and that you are happy with the results of your surgery. You will be thankful to know that labiaplasty procedures have very high success rates!
How Much Does a Labiaplasty Cost in London?
The cost of your labiaplasty depends very much on your individual circumstances. For many women, financing is a convenient option at The Hamlet Clinic. Please visit our financing page to see for yourself.
FAQ
What do I do if I’m self-conscious about the shape of my labia?
If the size and shape of your labia are causing you to feel embarrassed, you may be a good candidate for labiaplasty surgery. Speak to a licensed aesthetic surgeon to discover the benefits of labiaplasty surgery and how it could impact you.
How do I know if labiaplasty is right for me?
Women who undergo a labiaplasty do so for a variety of reasons. Some women want to rejuvenate the area after childbirth, other women want to change their labia because they have always been dissatisfied with how it appears. Whatever the reason for the procedure, labiaplasty is a safe surgical option for many.
What is the difference between a trim labiaplasty and a wedge labiaplasty?
A trim labiaplasty removes thinner tissue from the outermost edge of the labia minora (the inner lips), whereas a wedge labiaplasty removes a wedge-shaped section of the labia minora.
How long is a labiaplasty surgery?
A labiaplasty is an outpatient procedure approximately 1 hour in length.
Can labiaplasty help me have better sex?
Labiaplasty may lead to increased self-esteem and a decrease in excess rubbing in the area during intercourse, which could improve overall sexual satisfaction.
References
- Sorice-Virk, S., Li, A. Y., Canales, F. L., & Furnas, H. J. (2020). Comparison of Patient Symptomatology before and after Labiaplasty. Plastic and reconstructive surgery, 146(3), 526–536. https://doi.org/10.1097/PRS.0000000000007081
- Sorice, S. C., Li, A. Y., Canales, F. L., & Furnas, H. J. (2017). Why Women Request Labiaplasty. Plastic and reconstructive surgery, 139(4), 856–863. https://doi.org/10.1097/PRS.0000000000003181
- Oranges CM, Sisti A, Sisti G. Labia minora reduction techniques: a comprehensive literature review. Aesthet Surg J. 2015;35:419–431. Found in Furnas, Heather J. MD Trim Labiaplasty, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Global Open: May 2017 – Volume 5 – Issue 5 – p e1349 https://doi.org/10.1097/GOX.0000000000001349
- Alter G. J. (2008). Aesthetic labia minora and clitoral hood reduction using extended central wedge resection. Plastic and reconstructive surgery, 122(6), 1780–1789. https://doi.org/10.1097/PRS.0b013e31818a9b25