What a Labiaplasty Can Achieve
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure designed to reduce the size of the labia minora. For some patients, enlarged labia minora can cause physical symptoms or functional difficulties, while for others the impact may be primarily emotional.
The procedure involves removing excess tissue and reshaping the labia minora so they sit more discreetly within the labia majora. The aim of surgery is to improve comfort and appearance, with careful attention to balance, proportion and natural contours.
Your Surgical Journey
Your surgical journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr Collins at The Surgery. This allows time to discuss your goals and expectations, and to develop a surgical plan tailored specifically to you.
The decision to undergo labiaplasty is deeply personal, and Dr Collins approaches this consultation with sensitivity and respect. Most procedures are performed under local anaesthetic at The Surgery, with general anaesthetic considered inselected cases.
Recovery and Aftercare
Allowing yourself time to healis an important part of recovery. Swelling and discomfort are expected and can usually be managed with cold compresses and prescribed pain relief. Exercise, strenuous physical activity and sexual activity should be avoided for approximately six weeks to allow appropriate healing.
Return to work depends on the nature of your role. Desk-based work is often possible within one to two weeks, while more physically demanding roles may require a longer recovery period. Detailed post-operative instructions and ongoing support are provided throughout your journey.
Is Labiaplasty Right for You?
You may be suitable for labiaplasty if concerns relating to the size or shape of your labia minora are affecting your comfort, daily activities or emotional wellbeing.
A consultation with Dr Collins allows for a personalised assessment and discussion of the surgical approach most appropriate for you.
Labiaplasty in Dunedin with Dr Anne Collins
Frequently Asked Questions
A labiaplasty is a surgical procedure designed to reduce and reshape the labia minora (the innerlips of the vulva). The aim is to address excess tissue that may contribute to physical symptoms, functional difficulties or emotional distress while maintaining natural anatomy, balance and proportion.
There is a wide range of normal variation in the size, shape and symmetry of the labia minora. No two vulvas are the same and asymmetry is very common. The decision to consider surgery is a personal one. Dr Collins approaches this discussion with sensitivity and provides reassurance, guidance and support throughout the decision-making process.
Patients may consider labiaplasty for a variety of reasons. These can include irritation, pain or discomfort during exercise or physical activity, discomfort during intercourse, difficulty with clothing or swimwear, challenges with personal hygiene or recurrent irritation or infections. For others, even in the absence of functional symptoms, excess tissue may cause significant self-consciousness or emotional distress.
Labiaplasty involves carefully removing excess tissue and reshaping the labia minora so they sit more discreetly within the labia majora. Dissolvable sutures are used. In most cases, the procedure is performed under local anaesthetic at The Surgery. In selected situations, general anaesthetic may be considered.
Preparing well is an important part of your surgical journey and helps support the best possible outcome. During your consultation, Dr Collins will review your medical history, anatomy, goals and expectations to help plan your surgery safely and effectively.
The best results are achieved when your weight has been stable and within a healthy range for approximately three months prior to surgery. Patients must be nicotine-free for at least six weeks before surgery, including smoking, vaping and all nicotine replacement products, as nicotine significantly impairs wound healing.
No. Labiaplasty is performed as a day procedure and you will return home the same day.
Allowing yourself time to heal is an important part of your recovery following surgery. Swelling, bruising and discomfort are expected in the early recovery period. These symptoms usually improve gradually over the first few weeks and can be managed with cold compresses and prescribed pain relief. Dissolvable sutures are used and do not need to be removed. Meticulous perineal hygiene is essential during healing. Most swelling has settled by six weeks, although it may take several months to fully appreciate the final result.
Return to work depends on the nature of your role. Desk-based work is often possible within one to two weeks. More physically demanding roles may require a longer recovery period.
Driving is usually safe once you can comfortably turn the steering wheel, check blind spots and perform an emergency stop without discomfort. This is typically around one week after surgery.
Strenuous exercise, cycling, swimming and sexual activity should be avoided for approximately six weeks to allow appropriate healing. Dr Collins will provide a personalised return-to-activity plan tailored to you.
The goal of labiaplasty is not to create a standardised appearance. Dr Collins takes a conservative, individualised approach to achieve a result that is proportionate, balanced and natural for your individual anatomy.
Incisions are placed along the edges of the labia minora and are designed to heal along natural tissue boundaries. Scarring is usually subtle and softens significantly over time. Scar maturation continues over several months.
Surgical techniques are designed to preserve sensation wherever possible. Temporary changes in sensitivity are common during healing and usually improve with time. Permanent changes in sensation are uncommon but recognised and will be discussed in detail during your consultation.
Labiaplasty is a well-established procedure. As with all surgery, there are risks involved. These include pain, bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing, wound dehiscence, adverse scarring, asymmetry, under- or over-correction, changes in sensation and the potential need for revision surgery. These risks are discussed in detail during your consultation.
Surgical outcomes vary between individuals and depend on a number of factors including anatomy, tissue quality, healing response and adherence to post-operative care. Expected outcomes, risks and limitations are discussed in detail during your consultation as part of the informed consent process.
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