A labia correction is no longer a taboo subject
The inconvenience
You’ve probably heard of it: inner labia that are too large and therefore can be a nuisance. We speak of labia that are too large only when they cause symptoms. These can be both physical complaints (irritation while walking, biking or making love) and psychological complaints (embarrassment). In addition, you may think your intimate parts look less beautiful because the inner labia are coming out.
What is normal?
Did you know that in about 60% of women, after puberty, the inner labia are larger than the outer labia? This is not abnormal but a normal anatomical variation. However, it may happen that the labia grow larger during life. This enlargement then usually involves the inner labia. The medical term for such enlargement is hypertrophy. Oversized inner labia usually develop at puberty or after pregnancy.
To be ashamed of?
In the years I have been a plastic surgeon, I have regularly seen women considering a labia reduction. The reasons vary and are understandable. Usually women tell me they are considering treatment because they find the inner labia too large and bothersome.
Examples of bothersome situations include: pain during intercourse, irritation during sports (think horseback riding and cycling) or being visible in tight clothing and bathing suits. So don’t be alarmed, in case you are suffering from it yourself, you are definitely not the only one! I believe that the problem should not be underestimated. After all, the physical symptoms such as pain and the psychological symptoms such as shame can make you feel very uncomfortable. An important message here is that you can discuss your embarrassment and functional limitation and then together we can look for a solution where honest advice is at the forefront.
A labia correction explained step by step
During the labia correction, the inner labia are reduced in size so that they fall inside the outer labia (also known as “labia majora”), so to speak, creating a better proportion. You do this by removing excess skin and tissue, usually in the form of a wedge excision (a V-shaped incision). This takes into account that there is no scar retraction. The surgery is usually done under local anesthesia and takes about 30-45 min. Before surgery, the part of the labia to be removed is marked in consultation with the patient/client. After removal, the mucosa is closed with soluble sutures that do not need to be removed. You can then go home the same day.
There may be considerable swelling for the first few days after surgery. Many women are shocked by this, but this is very normal! It is advisable to cool well and wear sanitary pads. One should also rinse well in the shower daily. Furthermore, it is important to avoid strenuous exercise or sex for the first 2 weeks. A labia correction is usually not covered by health insurance companies. Only in extreme, rare cases can it possibly be reimbursed.
If you have any questions following this blog, please feel free to contact us for advice.
