DR. MALCOLM LINSELL
PLASTIC & AESTHETIC SURGEON
BSc | MBBS | MS | FRACS

Labiaplasty is the medical term used for altering the size, shape and appearance of a woman’s most intimate part of her body. The specialised area of skin that surrounds the vagina is made up of the Labia Majora (outer lips), the Labia Minora (inner lips) and the clitoral hood (protecting the clitoris). It is normal for each of these areas to be different sizes and shapes so that every woman tends to have a unique appearance, all of which are normal.

 

In women of all ages, the appearance can vary due to enlargement of one, two or all of the areas.  This can be very confusing for women who are comparing themselves to the highly airbrushed images that nowadays are readily available for all to see.

 

Enlargement of the labia minora or clitoral hood can be more pronounced on one side than the other and can protrude beyond the confines of the labia majora. This can be physically uncomfortable or irritating when wearing tight clothes such as jeans, when playing sport or riding a bicycle. Furthermore, the altered appearance can diminish a woman’s self-confidence impacting intimacy and her sexual expression.

 

A labiaplasty reduces the enlarged areas and restores symmetry. In so doing, it relieves discomfort and beautifies the appearance.

 

The procedure is rising in popularity as women become more confident with the choices they make about their bodies. They talk about it more freely amongst themselves, know what they want and will look for an experienced and empathic surgeon to provide it for them.