Labiaplasty, Labia Minora Reduction

Welcome to our page on labia minora reduction. We understand that this is a sensitive subject and that each woman seeking our help has her own unique concerns and needs.

The most common procedure in intimate surgery is the reduction of the inner labia minora. This involves shortening and removing part of the inner labia minora to create better harmony in shape and size, entirely according to the patient’s wishes.

The operation we perform can be done under local anaesthesia if the patient so desires, otherwise general anaesthesia is preferable. After the operation, there is usually some swelling and tenderness for a few days. I stitch with thread that the body takes care of itself. It’s good to take it easy the first week, wear cotton underwear and loose clothing. With intimate surgery, one should refrain from sexual activity for about 6 weeks.

There are options to also reduce the pubis and the outer labia with liposuction, with or without removing excess skin.

Why consider labia minora reduction? Women seek us for many reasons. It could be physical discomfort like pain or chafing during activities like cycling or intercourse, but also psychological effects like decreased self-esteem and problems with intimate relationships. Do you recognize yourself in any of this? Then this procedure could be a solution for you.

With more than 20 years of experience in intimate surgery, we are a reference clinic in the field and perform about 200 operations each year. We get patients from all over Sweden and sometimes even from other countries.

We are here to help you, regardless of your reason for considering this procedure. Our primary goal is to improve your quality of life and to alleviate your symptoms. We do this by creating a tailored plan, especially for you, based on your unique needs and desires.

We take the time to really listen to your concerns, and we believe that you are the expert on your own body. We will work together with you to discuss your surgical goals, and we will carefully explain every step in the process, including what you can expect before, during, and after the operation.

If you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask. We want you to feel completely comfortable discussing your concerns with Dr. Oya and our team. We are here for you, from the initial consultation to postoperative care, and we will always strive to offer you the best possible care.

After the procedure, you will likely experience some swelling and discomfort, but we will be there to support you throughout the healing process. Remember that each person’s healing process is unique, and it may take several weeks before you see the final result. But know that we will be with you every step of the way.

We know this can be a big decision to make. But we want you to know that your wellbeing is our highest priority. We are here to support you, and we will always strive to provide you with the best possible care.

What questions should I ask Dr. Oya about Labia Minora Reduction?
Prepare for your consultation by:

Writing down all your symptoms with a timeline, medications, and health history, so you can discuss your problems systematically.
Making a list of your questions.
Informing about your health and any health problems.
Asking questions and demanding answers.
Reading your medical records and bringing a copy or asking for access to them.
Bringing a friend for support.

Suggestions for questions to ask:

Am I a good candidate for labia minora reduction?
What is expected of me to achieve the best results?
Have you been specially trained in this procedure?
Where and how will you perform my procedure?
Which surgical technique is recommended for me?
How long is the recovery period I can expect and what kind of help will I need during my recovery?
What are the risks and complications associated with my procedure?
How are complications handled?
Will I experience any changes in sensitivity during intercourse?
How long do I need to wait after the procedure to engage in intercourse?
Will I be able to have a vaginal delivery after labia minora reduction?
Would vaginal delivery affect the outcome of the procedure?
What are my options if I am dissatisfied with the results of my labia minora reduction?
Do you have before and after pictures that I can look at for this procedure and what results are reasonable for me?

Be sure to ask Dr. Oya specific questions about what you can expect during your recovery.

Will I have dressings/bandages after the operation?
When will they be removed?
When will the stitches be removed?

What are the risks of a labia minora reduction?
The risks of labia minora reduction include most surgical procedures, including bleeding, hematoma, and infection. The most common complication is over-resection. While some women desire aggressive reduction, this can result in chronic dryness, scarring at or near the vaginal opening, and pain with intercourse. Healing problems are more likely to occur with a wedge procedure, especially if the patient is exposed to substances that cause blood vessels to shrink.

Asymmetry
Bleeding
Hematoma
Infection
Numbness or other changes in skin sensation
Under-resection
Over-resection
Poor wound healing
Possibility of revision surgery
Sutures may spontaneously emerge through the skin, become visible, or cause irritation requiring removal Unfavourable scarring
These risks and others will be fully discussed at your consultation. It is important that you address all your concerns directly with Dr. Oya.

How should I prepare for labia minora reduction?
When preparing for labiaplasty, you may be asked to:

Take tests or undergo a medical evaluation
Take certain medications or adjust your current medications
Stop smoking
Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding

When you book the surgery, you will receive written instructions with detailed information about the time, our payment terms, and how to prepare.

You should arrange for a friend or family member to pick you up after the operation and stay with you the first night.

Anaesthesia for a labia minora reduction
Labiaplasty is a surgery that can be done under either local anaesthesia or sedation (light anaesthesia).

Labia Minora Reduction – How does it work?
The most common type of labiaplasty is the trim procedure, where the excess tissue is removed and sewn up directly. Next in popularity is the wedge procedure, which maintains a natural edge after a pie-shaped piece of tissue has been removed. Extra folds on the clitoral hood can also be reduced at the same time. Closure is usually done with absorbable sutures.

Recovering from a Labia Minora Reduction
Most patients take a week off from work,

Patients can resume wearing tampons or having intercourse after four to six weeks.

While most swelling is gone by 6 weeks, remaining swelling may take six months to disappear.

What are the results of a labia minora reduction?
Most patients who experienced symptoms such as chafing generally find relief after surgery.