Labiaplasty
Labia minora are two flaps of skin on either side of the vaginal opening. Labiaplasty refers to the surgical alteration of the labia minora and it is the most frequently performed vaginal aesthetic procedure. Labia minora vary widely in size, colour and shape from individual to individual. Asymmetries are common. While some patients have youthful and tight labia, most patients who come to seek treatment have labia that are loose and wrinkled. Often significant pigmentation is also noted.
The main objective of a labiaplasty is to improve the aesthetic appearance of the female external genitalia. Various techniques of labiaplasty have been developed to address different concerns regarding the structures and appearance of the labia minora. Labiaplasty techniques that are commonly performed are wedge excision, edge trimming and the de-epithelialisation technique. In the wedge excision technique, a central wedge is removed from the most protuberant part of the labia. Wedge excision technique is suitable for patients with radial excess of and edge pigmentation of the labia, thickened labia minora and labia with ruffled edges. Wedge excision technique tends to retain a more natural look for the labia minora. Edge trimming technique removes excess tissue from the outer edges of the labia minora so that the edges recede from the borders of the labia majora. De-epithelialisation involves removing the epithelium of the labia. This technique reduces the vertical excess tissue, whilst preserving the natural rugosity at the edges of the labia minora.
Preparation
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Inform the doctor of any pre-existing medical conditions and drug allergy. All medical conditions must be treated and stabilized before surgery.
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Stop smoking at least one week before surgery. Smoking is harmful to wound healing and increases the risks of other post-operation complications.
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Stop the following medications and supplements from one week before surgery until one week after surgery.
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All supplements containing vitamin E, ginseng, ginkgo, garlic, fish oil, and other ingredients that increase bleeding during the procedure. Other supplements, traditional medicine, and herbs, in which ingredients are unknown, have to stop as well.
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Medicine that increases bleeding during the procedure such as aspirin, NSAIDs, and warfarin. However, you may need to consult your physician who prescribed the medication before you stop them.
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On the day of surgery, wear simple and comfortable clothing. Do not wear any makeup. Do not wear any jewelry and metal objects on the face and body.
Surgery
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia
Hospitalization: Not required
Recovery: Back to work in 3 to 5 days, light exercise after 2 weeks, heavy exercise after at least one month. * The actual speed of recovery depends on the types of procedure performed and may vary from person to person.
Technique:
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Wedge excision technique. A central wedge is removed from the most protuberant part of the labia. Wedge excision technique tends to retain a more natural look for the labia minora
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Edge trimming technique: Excess tissue from the outer edges of the labia minora is removed.
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De-epithelialisation: Epithelium of the labia is removed.
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Post-operative Care**
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What to expect: Swelling of the labia for 1-2 weeks after surgery.
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General care:
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Avoid wearing tight clothing and underwear
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Avoid sexual intercourse for one month.
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Use a sanitary pad for comfort
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Avoid smoking for at least one month. Smoking increases the risk of wound complications.
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Adequate rest and sleep are helpful for a speedy recovery.
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Be relaxed and calm. Contact the clinic if there are any queries.
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Medicine: Finish the oral antibiotics as prescribed. Take the painkiller as prescribed when necessary.
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Wound care: After the wound dressing is removed, clean the wound with a clean cotton tip soaked with sterile water/saline. Apply antibiotic ointment.
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Physical activity: Avoid heavy physical activity and exercise for at least one month.
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Follow-up: Come back one week after surgery for review and suture removal.
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Emergency: If there is heavy bleeding, a rapid increase in swelling or severe pain, immediately contact the clinic/doctor for advice.
** The instructions in this list are only for general guidance. If you have any specific queries or concerns during the post-operative recovery, please contact the clinic for further advice.
