Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes or reduces the labia minora. It has gained significant attention in recent years. In 2021, over 18,800 labiaplasty procedures were performed in the U.S., a 36% increase from the previous year .1
This guide explains what the procedure involves, who it’s for, how it’s done, and what recovery looks like. It also includes a visual breakdown to support learning for both patients and clinical trainees.
What Is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty focuses on altering the labia minora, typically to reduce excess tissue that may be visible beyond the labia majora. While some patients pursue it for aesthetic preferences, others experience discomfort during physical activities, clothing friction, or intimacy.
Although labiaplasty can be medically indicated in rare conditions like labial hypertrophy or congenital abnormalities, most procedures are elective and based on personal goals. Common motivations include feeling self-conscious about appearance, discomfort in tight clothing, or negative past experiences involving peer or partner comments.
Who’s a Good Candidate?
The ideal candidates for a labiaplasty procedure are adults in good physical and psychological health who have specific concerns about discomfort or appearance. Preoperative screening should include a full clinical and mental health assessment to ensure appropriate expectations and candidacy. Surgery is generally not advised for individuals with active body dysmorphic disorder or those seeking results based on external pressures.
For adolescents, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends delaying labiaplasty until physical development is complete and maturity allows for an informed, well-reasoned decision.2 Preoperative counseling should include a discussion of anatomical variation and possible external pressures influencing the desire for surgery.
Recovery and Post-Op Care
Most patients recover at home and return to work within a week, depending on the type of work. Pain is usually mild to moderate and managed with over-the-counter medication or prescribed pain relievers. Instructions typically include using ice packs, elevating the pelvis, and avoiding pressure or friction in the area.
Surgeons advise avoiding sex, tampons, and intense exercise for four weeks. Swelling can last up to six months, although most visible healing occurs earlier. Patients should be given written guidance and encouraged to attend follow-up visits to track healing.
Risks and Considerations
Complications are uncommon but possible. These may include asymmetry, wound separation, minor infections, bleeding, or scarring. A small number of patients may need revision surgery to correct healing issues or further adjust appearance. Changes in sensation (whether temporary or permanent) should be discussed before surgery.
Careful patient selection, technique, and post-op compliance help reduce risk. Surgeons should walk patients through all potential outcomes and reinforce that complete symmetry or perfection is never guaranteed.
Realistic Expectations and Satisfaction
Satisfaction is closely linked to motivation. Patients who seek labiaplasty to improve comfort or function (rather than just appearance) tend to be more satisfied with the results. Across multiple studies, patients report improved self-esteem, better body image, and relief from physical irritation. Sexual function often improves, especially when discomfort was previously a barrier.
Clear communication between the patient and surgeon about goals and outcomes is essential for a positive experience.
Training for Providers and Students
Labiaplasty is taught at Level 1 and Level 2 in ABCG’s training and certification program. Coursework covers surgical planning, anatomical variation, aesthetic units, and technique selection. Trainees are also expected to understand ethical concerns, particularly when treating minors or highly aesthetic-motivated patients.
Hands-on training includes live patient observation, surgical simulation, and post-op care protocols.
Explore ABCG Certification
Labiaplasty is one of the foundational procedures taught in cosmetic gynecology. Whether you’re a physician looking to expand your services or a student exploring this specialty, board certification helps you learn best practices and develop patient-centered surgical skills.
Get board-certified today and build your future in aesthetic gynecology.
References
- Sharp, Gemma et al. “Beyond Motivations: A Qualitative Pilot Exploration of Women’s Experiences Prior to Labiaplasty.” Aesthetic surgery journal vol. 43,9 (2023): 994-1001. doi:10.1093/asj/sjad105
- “Breast and Labial Surgery in Adolescents.” ACOG, www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2017/01/breast-and-labial-surgery-in-adolescents.
