Labia correction - Reduction of the skin. No visible scars.

How is a labia correction done?

A labia correction is a relatively simple procedure that is often performed. It involves the reduction of the skin of both the larger, as well as, the smaller labia. The correction is usually performed using a local anaesthetic. This means that you will receive a few injections of anaesthetic in and around the area of the labia and that you will be awake throughout the procedure.

Soluble sutures will be used. The operating technique that is used and how the closing-up is done (including suturing) will determine the cosmetic results. On average, a labia correction takes about an hour.

Before the procedure, the surgeon will mark the skin to be removed with a pen. Subsequently, the surplus tissue will be removed with a scalpel or laser. The wound is then closed using soluble sutures so that they do not need to be removed afterwards by the surgeon.

What are the advantages of having a labia correction?

No more irritation of the labia
No visible scars
No discomfort during activities, such as cycling and horse riding or during sexual intercourse
It looks prettier

Why is a correction of the external labia necessary?

The larger labia (labia majora) are the hairy skin folds that protect the opening of the vagina and the smaller labia (labia minora). The shape of the larger labia is different for every woman. They can be larger due to a surplus of skin and/or tissue. It can also be as a result of weight loss. When this surplus is disturbingly visible, for example, when wearing tight trousers, sports or swimwear, you can choose to have a labia majora correction done. The surplus tissue will then be removed.

Why a labia correction of the internal labia?

It’s common for women to suffer from oversized internal labia. There are several reasons for this: it can be congenital. They could have permanently been changed after childbirth or become looser due to menopause.
This can cause persistent irritation of the labia. It can even cause infections in the area around the vagina. Furthermore, it can cause discomfort while doing sports, cycling, horse riding and during sexual intercourse. In addition, many women are not happy when their internal and external labia are not in proportion to each other. A labia reduction can, therefore, also be chosen for aesthetic reasons.

CONSULTATION

Would you like to know more about a labia correction? The cosmetic gynaecologist will gladly take the time for you. You can explain what the problem is and why you would like to have a labia correction done and what you expect from the procedure. Naturally, you are free to ask any questions. Together you will decide how much tissue should be removed. Please note that you must be at least 18 years of age to have this procedure done – this is the law.

What can I expect after having had a labia correction done?

It is essential that you take care of your wounds well after having had a labia correction done. This will allow the wounds to heal nicely and will give optimal results.

Once the procedure has been done, there will be some swelling around the labia. Immediately after the procedure, it is important to – cool the area every 10 minutes and continue to do so regularly for two or three days. Even when cooled the labia can remain swollen for quite some time. As mentioned before, it can take anywhere from six to ten weeks before the swelling has completely disappeared. However, by cooling, you make sure that the swelling will be less.

It is also possible that the skin will remain numb for quite some time. These side-effects are usually temporary. The scar can initially feel hard after the labia correction. However, for a few months, while the wound is healing, the skin will become less firm, and the scars will become softer.
When you can go back to work or resume your activities will depend on the situation. Discuss this with the cosmetic gynaecologist.

We advise you to refrain from having sexual contact and from doing any sports until six weeks after having had the procedure done. Also, it is not advisable to do any heavy physical labour or lift any heavy objects. The wound should receive as little pressure as possible.
The wound will not be dressed after the labia correction has been completed. Therefore, we do recommend that you use a sanitary towel. This will absorb any possible blood loss.