Labiaplasty

… Do you feel unattractive down there?

Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure to reduce the prominence of the vulval lips known as the labia – usually the inner lips (labia minora) but sometimes the outer lips (labia majora).

However, some women also request changes to the clitoral hood or reduction by liposuction of an overly prominent mons pubis (the triangular fatty mound above the vulva) which can cause embarrassment when wearing tight pants or swimwear.

The two main categories of women seeking Labiaplasty are:

1. those with congenital conditions
2. those with no underlying condition but who wish to alter the appearance of their genitals because they believe they do not fall within a normal range.

Labia Minora reduction

The labia minora are important in maintaining the moisture of the vulva and vagina.  Their appearance varies considerably among women in terms of size, colour and shape.  Nonetheless, as a result of ageing or following childbirth, the labia minora can become enlarged and protrude beyond the labia majora.

Most women seeking a Labiaplasty of the labia minora do so because they believe it is normal or more aesthetic for the labia minora to be completely covered by the labia majora.

Labia Majora changes

The labia majora are the two fatty mounds outside the labia minora.  They can either lose volume or become enlarged:

• Loss of labia majora volume can occur over time with ageing, following pregnancy or after major weight loss.  This causes them to look deflated and saggy.  In such instances, Fat Transfer with/without skin resection can restore them to a more youthful appearance.

• Enlargement of the labia majora
  In some women, the labia majora may become enlarged causing the woman to feel self-conscious or embarrassed about wearing tight pants or swimwear.  Liposuction is the most effective treatment to reduce their prominence down to a normal size.

Where is it done?

Labiaplasty is best performed in a Hospital or Day Surgery Facility under General Anaesthesia.  After two hours in Recovery, you can return home and recuperate there.  However, you cannot go home alone.  You need to be accompanied by a responsible adult who can also be with you for the first 24 hours.

The procedure is performed by our highly experienced, Australian-trained, female Plastic Surgeon, Dr Sawjin Tew who has helped hundreds of patients over the years with her extensive experience and sense of artistry.

What are the costs?

The total cost of your procedure is made up of each of the following individual costs:

• Surgeon’s fee
• Anaesthetist’s fee
• Hospital costs
• Pre-operative medical tests
• Medications

Our Surgeon will give you an itemised quotation at your initial consultation.

Is the surgery eligible for a Medicare rebate?

Labiaplasty surgery may be eligible for a Medicare Rebate if you meet Medicare’s criteria.  If you are deemed eligible for a Medicare Rebate and you have Private Hospital Insurance, you’ll also be able to claim a portion of your Hospital Fees depending on your Fund and your Level of Cover.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.