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Surgery in a sensitive area
Labioplasty is a procedure designed to reduce and reshape the inner, smaller lips (labia minora) of the vaginal entrance.
It is gaining in popularity as the results have become very reliable. Labioplasty (also spelt labiaplasty) is a commonly performed but seldom discussed procedure. Performed for the correct indications the results are usually very favourable.
Women complain of larger, asymmetric, uneven or protruding labia. This may be exacerbated after childbirth. There is a large range of normal variance. Many women just need to be reassured that they fit within normal parameters.
Symptoms include discomfort, irritation and rashes. These symptoms may be made worse by clothing, sporting activities (cycling) or prolonged sitting and intercourse. The labia may be visible through some swimming costumes. Labia may even protrude form clothing, underwear and swimmers. Women of all ages are affected.
As it involves a very sensitive area, surgery is performed with a combination of local anaesthetic and sedation or local anaesthetic and light general anaesthetic.
Adrenaline in the local anaesthetic helps reduce bruising and bleeding, reduces the requirement for sedation or general anaesthetic and ensures a pain-free number of hours.
Surgery is usually performed as day surgery and takes between 60 and 90 minutes. It can be combined with other procedures. Labioplasty, where medically indicated, has a Medicare rebate.
After the procedure pain tablets and antibiotics are prescribed. Pain requiring regular medication may persist for a few days. An antibiotic ointment is also used. All sutures used are dissolving so there is no discomfort for removal.
Personal hygiene is important and showers can resume the next day. Sometimes twice daily showers are recommended. Gently pat the area dry with a soft towel. No dressings or dressing changes are needed. Gauze squares or padding may be used. A few doctors choose to use a catheter to drain the bladder but this may not be necessary.
Recovery is similar to most surgery. Sedentary work can be resumed at about a week. Gradual increase in exercise form two weeks, with a return to sport in about 4-6 weeks is the norm. Sexual activity can be restarted form about 4-6 weeks.
These are a guide only and faster recoveries are common. Follow-up appointments are scheduled at regular intervals.
All surgery has risks. Bruising resolves by two weeks but swelling may, at times, take longer, even up to four weeks. There is a risk of infection with all surgery of between 1-3%. Haematomas or bleeding may occur.
This region has a very rich blood supply. Scars anywhere on the body may be raised, thickened, visible or tender. Wounds may be delayed in healing but this is rare. Residual asymmetry may persist. Despite this long list, the procedure is usually well tolerated with many favourable outcomes.
The clitoris is avoided to reduce the risk of any sensation changes. There are specific procedures to reduce the clitoral hood. This is the upper skin excess. There may be a residual skin excess in this area.
As everyone is different a thorough medical history and examination is required. This enables optimal planning and outcome. A full understanding of the procedure, likely outcome and potential risks need to be fully understood. Usually two appointments are required.