Labiaplasty

Labiaplasty at Cobalt Hospital

What is Labiaplasty?

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.

Vaginoplasty

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.

Aftercare

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.

What are the risks?

All surgical procedures carry some risk. Your surgeon will discuss these in detail with you at your consultation.

Additional information

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.

When can I exercise?

Usually 2-4 weeks after the procedure.

When can I drive a car?

You should be comfortable enough to drive after 2 weeks but you should always check with your insurance company first.

When can I go back to work?

You should be able to return to work within 2-4 weeks of the surgery.

When can I resume sexual intercourse?

Sexual activity can be resumed 4-6 weeks after the procedure.

Eligibility

You must have a medical or psychological necessity to be eligible for plastic or reconstructive surgery at one of our Ramsay hospitals. Your consultant will guide you through a thorough assessment process. If needed, our multi-disciplinary team, potentially including a psychologist and / or other specialists, will review your case to confirm the medical necessity of your treatment.

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The information, including but not limited to, text, graphics, images and other material, contained on this website is for educational purposes only and not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment.

No warranty or guarantee is made that the information contained on this website is complete or accurate in every respect. The testimonials, statements, and opinions presented on our website are applicable to the individuals depicted. Results will vary and may not be representative of the experience of others. Prior patient results are only provided as examples of what may be achievable. Individual results will vary and no guarantee is stated or implied by any photo use or any statement on this website.

Ramsay is a trusted provider of plastic or reconstructive surgery treatments as a part of our wrap-around holistic patient care. Our personal, friendly and professional team are here to support you throughout to ensure the best possible care. All procedures we perform are clinically justified, and we do not offer treatments that are purely aesthetic / to change your appearance.

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