02 8544 3270

Labiaplasty Sydney

Labiaplasty is a plastic surgery procedure that is designed to improve function or the aesthetic appearance of the female genitalia. The vagina is made of an inner lip (labia minora) and an outer lip (labia majora). In some women, the labia minora are too large, uneven, or non-symmetrical and can protrude beyond the labia majora. This can cause functional problems or discomfort as well as aesthetic concerns and interfere with self-confidence.

In women with functional problems, it can cause chafing and friction with clothes or irritation when exercising. It can also become uncomfortable or interfere with sexual activity.

Labiaplasty Surgery in Sydney - Dr André Safvat - Plastic Surgeon Sydney

Others seeking this procedure might be self-conscious about the appearance of their labia minora and this can interfere with their self-esteem and relationships. Some women may be more genetically prone to this concern and it can worsen with aging, pregnancy and childbirth.

Labiaplasty procedure

Labiaplasty is performed under general anaesthetic in fully accredited hospitals. Dr Safvat only works with highly trained anaesthetics accredited with the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists. The operation takes about an hour to complete.

Dr Safvat’s aim is to delicately and carefully remove the excess tissue and reshape the region without interfering with the nerves or sexual sensation. The incisions are quite discreet too. It is important to only ever have labiaplasty done by a specialist plastic surgeon who is used to handling delicate tissue, preserving nerves and can perform accurate and precise wound closure.

Labiaplasty can also be combined with a clitoral hood reduction should this also be an area of concern.

Since this is a day procedure, patients can return home on the same day, provided someone can drive them home.

Recovery Details

During the first few days after the surgery, patients can expect some pain and swelling, which will improve at a gradual pace. It can take up to a week for these side effects to subside, however, this is different for every woman.

Patients should also know that blood-tinged discharge, bruising and discomfort when urinating can also occur after labiaplasty. All of these common effects can be managed with pain medication, ointments and proper cleansing.

Most patients are able to return to work after several days. Any strenuous activity, sexual intercourse and tampons will need to be avoided for at least six weeks.

Some of the ways that you can make your recovery more comfortable is to wear loose, breathable clothing, to keep the area clean and to avoid intercourse until you’re completely healed. Using a donut pillow is also known to help.

Labiaplasty FAQs

How much does labiaplasty cost?

Cost is definitely an important consideration when planning any type of surgery but it definitely shouldn’t be the most important. There are a few factors that contribute to the final cost of the procedure, including surgeon, hospital and anaesthetist fees. Post-operative checks will also be required after surgery to track your progress, which will affect the cost. If labiaplasty is paired with a clitoral hood reduction, this will also increase the total cost of the surgery. In certain circumstances, labiaplasty may attract Medicare and private health insurance rebates.

How should I prepare for a labiaplasty procedure?

There are some preparations that need to be undertaken prior to a labiaplasty procedure. You will need to arrange to take a week off work. It’s also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle in the weeks leading up to your surgery. It’s best to stop smoking for at last a month before your procedure as smoking can affect the healing process. Staying hydrated, eating healthy and getting enough sleep also helps. It’s also important to arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery and possibly assist you for a day or two. This can be especially helpful if you have kids at home. Lastly, take the time to stock up on groceries and prescription medication.

When will I see my final labiaplasty results?

Every patient heals differently but your body will need time to rest and recover. Your results will gradually begin to take shape over the course of several weeks. All swelling will need to subside before you can see the final outcome. In most instances, final results are visible after about three months.

How visible will scarring be after labiaplasty?

Scarring varies between patients but after about six months to a year, the scarring will hardly be noticeable at all. One of the main benefits of labiaplasty is that any scars can be hidden in the folds of the labia. Dr Safvat uses proven techniques and his extensive experience to keep any scarring to a minimum. Over and above slight scarring, patients may also notice some slight discolouration in the area for a few months. This will improve over time though and the discolouration doesn’t look that different to the rest of the skin and tissue in the area.