Labia Minora Reduction

What is the labia minora?

The labia are flaps of skin covering and protecting the opening of the vagina and urinary system. There are two labia – labia majora, the outer larger flap, and the labia minora, the inner smaller flap of skin.

What is labia minora reduction?

Labia minora reduction or labiaplasty is a surgery performed to change the shape or size of the labia minora.

What are the indications of labia minora reduction?

Labia minora reduction may be performed as a cosmetic procedure when a woman expects her vaginal lips to appear in a certain manner. It is also indicated for medical purposes in case of vaginal lips that are abnormal, damaged after pregnancy, large (causing pain or discomfort), diseased, infected or affected with cancer.

When is labiaplasty contraindicated?

Labiaplasty is not recommended in girls less than 18 years of age, unless extremely necessary, as the tissue may continue to grow and develop until adulthood.

How is labia minora reduction performed?

Labia minora reduction is performed under general or local anaesthesia. Your doctor trims the unwanted tissue with the help of a scalpel or a laser. The loose edges are stitched with dissolvable stitches.

How long does the surgery take?

Labia minora reduction may take 1 to 2 hours.

What are the risks involved?

As with any procedure, labia minora reduction may involve certain risks and complications, which include bleeding, scarring of tissue, infection, painful sex or reduced sensitivity.