Labiaplasty
Labiaplasty in Cyprus
Every woman’s body is unique. The pubic and labia area is no exception. Every woman has different vaginal features, including a unique clitoris, labia and vagina.
However, aging, childbirth and intense sexual activity throughout the years can alter the appearance of the pubic-labia area. The changes are apparent in the skin flaps on the sides of the vaginal opening and can affect women’s confidence and sex life.
That’s why women are considering having cosmetic surgery such as labia reduction or vagina rejuvenation surgery in Cyprus.
Apart from these gradual changes to the area, many women suffer from enlarged labia from an early age, experiencing pain, irritation, urinary tract infections, and difficulties with exercise, hygiene and sexual activity.
Having a larger labia can also make it difficult for women to wear and feel comfortable in skinny trousers, yoga pants or swimsuits.
For all these reasons, labiaplasty (also called vaginoplasty), is an effective, positive and intimate surgery solution for women who want to regain their confidence and enhance their intimate relationships.
What is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is a cosmetic procedure that aims to reduce the vulva’s inner lip tissues (labia minora) and/or reshape them so that they become symmetrical with the outer part of the female outer lip genitals (labia majora).
The procedure involves utilizing specialized surgical techniques to reshape the skin and fatty tissues. The surgical method the plastic surgeon will choose depends on the patient’s unique situation.
It can be performed for both cosmetic and medical reasons, such as to reduce discomfort or pain during intercourse, improve self-confidence, or correct asymmetry in the appearance of the labia.
The majority of labiaplasties are performed on sexually mature women. That’s because labia continue to develop beyond puberty into early adulthood. Occasionally, women younger than 18 opt for labiaplasty because they have enlarged labia minora that cause intense discomfort in performing routine physical activities. Apart from being a congenital condition, labia enlargement (hypertrophy) can also appear after childbirth and hormone treatments.
A Labiaplasty is usually performed under general anaesthesia, with the surgery typically taking between one to two hours to complete. Possible risks associated with labiaplasty include infection, bleeding, scarring, nerve damage and changes in sensation.
Recovery time varies from person to person, but most people can return home within 24 hours after the procedure. However, results are usually visible immediately after surgery, although swelling and bruising may take several weeks or months to fully resolve.
The cost of labiaplasty in Cyprus will vary depending on the surgeon’s experience level and the clinic. Speak to our team today to find out all the details about labiaplasty surgery, its benefits and cost.
Who is a Good Candidate for Labiaplasty?
While labial hypertrophy usually does not affect one’s health, consideration of a labiaplasty may be necessary when enlarged labia tissues start to impact the quality of life or prevent the individual from fully engaging in certain activities.
- Fully developed women who are in good health.
- Women whose labial tissues can become stretched out or redundant due to pregnancy.
- Following menopause, the vulvar lips can droop with loss of collagen and elastin.
- Concerned or self-conscious about the appearance of the labia when nude.
- Experience pain or discomfort due to pulling of the labia with intercourse.
- Irritation in clothing occurring from friction due to excess labia tissue.
- Tenderness and irritation during physical activities.
- Failed or unsatisfactory previous labiaplasty – can often be improved with revision surgery.
Recovery After Labiaplasty
Labiaplasty is an outpatient surgery. Thus, hospitalization is not required unless labiaplasty is combined with other cosmetic surgeries.
Swelling, redness, bruising and discomfort are common for the first few days, and they will resolve after a week.
Patients can resume their daily activities from the 1st day after labiaplasty unless these activities can exert pressure on the wound. Women should refrain from sitting for prolonged periods during the initial two weeks. Most ladies feel good enough to return to work in 3-5 days, although everyone heals at their own pace.
Sexual intercourse will need to be postponed until the labia has fully healed in about 6 weeks.
Like any surgery, it takes at least 6 weeks for the initial swelling to recede, and 6 months up to a year for the results to be complete. Incisions are hidden in the natural crease of the labia region. There is usually minimal scarring, as incisions are made in the labial “mucosa” rather than the skin.
Several follow-up appointments will be scheduled with Dr. Stavrou, allowing him to carefully follow your healing process. He will give the go-ahead for resuming physical activities, including sexual intercourse. During this time, patients need to follow this post-op advice from Dr. Stavrou:
• Keep the area clean & free from any infections.
• Avoid sexual activity for about 6 weeks.
• Avoid physical activity for 6-12 weeks.
• Wear loose underwear & clothes to avoid rubbing.
• Use sanitary towels instead of tampons.
• Avoid long showers & pat the wound dry after washing.
• Refrain from bike riding, horseback riding and running until the surgeon allows it.
Duration
1 hour
Anaesthesia Used
General Anaesthetic
Hospital Stay
No need
Pre Admission Tests
Blood Tests
Full Recovery
1 month
Sexual Activity
1 month
Exercise
1 month
Final Result
3 months
What Does Labiaplasty Involve?
Several labiaplasty techniques have evolved with the technological and medical advancements of recent years. The two most common techniques are trim procedure and wedge procedure. Dr. Stavrou pays special attention to the clitoris and urethra to ensure they remain intact and the area’s sensitivity is not affected.
Step 1 Anesthesia
Labiaplasty requires general anesthesia administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist.
The surgeon may also use local anesthetic to prevent bleeding and bruising during surgery and keep the area numb for many hours after surgery.
Step 2 Surgical Procedure
The right technique will depend on the individual patient’s needs and lifestyle. These include:
- Trim Procedure
The excess tissue is removed with a straight-line incision along the edge of the labia.
The surgical incisions are closed with absorbable sutures, and the scar is generally inconspicuous.
The trim procedure is the most common type of labiaplasty, widely performed by most plastic surgeons. It is a powerful technique for changing the shape and size of the entire labia minora. It may address excess length, asymmetry, as well as hyperpigmentation.
The vagina is not normally addressed during a labiaplasty.
- Wedge Procedure
During wedge labiaplasty, a central wedge of the labia minora is removed in a V-shaped pattern. The front and back portions of the labia minora are then stitched together.
Dr. Stavrou ensures the submucosa – the tissue beneath a mucous membrane – is left intact.
This may be an effective technique for patients presenting with asymmetry or excess length of the central third of the labia minora.
It is less effective in reducing excess tissue at the other sites. Wedge labiaplasty also does not remove the pigmented tissue at the leading edge of the labia minora.
- Clitoral Hood Reduction
For women with redundant clitoral hood tissue, a reduction of the clitoral hood can also be performed as part of a labiaplasty. Clitoral hood reduction involves careful trimming of excess skin that hangs over the clitoris. The overlying skin is then rearranged without risking nerve injury or affecting sexual sensation or stimulation.
What our patients say!
Where Will Labiaplasty Surgery Take Place?
Dr. Stavrou performs labiaplasty in accredited medical centers in Cyprus, Greece and Malta.
The procedure takes place in a safe and sterile operation room. The surgeon uses only state-of-the-art medical equipment. The staff involved is thoroughly trained and specialized in cosmetic surgery. Dr. Stavrou wants to ensure a safe, well-controlled and comfortable surgical experience for his patients.
After the procedure, the patient is transferred to the recovery suite and is closely monitored by the medical staff.
The European Institute of Plastic Surgery (EIPS) offers exceptional health care and meets the high standards of safety and care set by European laws. EIPS clinics provide individualized health care in a beautiful, exclusive and luxurious environment.
Meet Dr. Demetris Stavrou
Dr. Stavrou is a board-certified Plastic Surgeon leading the European Institute of Plastic Surgery since 2012. He was trained in top Medical Institutions in Greece, London, Melbourne and Israel. He has extensive experience in all types of plastic surgery and an artistic eye. He is compassionate and always by the side of his patients to make them feel comfortable, secure and confident. For Dr. Stavrou, paying attention to the details is what makes the difference in cosmetic procedures.
- Assistant Professor, St George’s, University of London / Medical School at the University of Nicosia
- Honorary Tutor at the University of Cardiff, School of Medicine, UK
- MSc with Distinction in “Wound Healing and Tissue Repair”, University of Cardiff, School of Medicine, U.K
- Fellow of the European Board of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery (EBOPRAS)
- International Member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
- ATLS (Advanced Trauma Life Support) Instructor
- Fellowship in “Advanced Aesthetic Surgery” from the Melbourne Institute of Plastic Surgery – Monash University, Australia
- Nicosia, Cyprus +357 70088002
- Limassol, Cyprus +357 70088002
- Greece +30 6971881572
- Malta +356 79317641
FAQs for Labiaplasty
How painful is labiaplasty recovery?
Labiaplasty is one of the least painful surgical procedures. Patients can return to routine activities from the first day following the operation. Soreness, swelling and bruising are usual side effects that might last up to 2 weeks.
The surgeon will prescribe painkillers and antibiotics to avoid infections, ensure minimal discomfort and a speedy recovery.
Can women get labiaplasty after pregnancy?
After repeated pregnancies and/or vaginal deliveries in some women, the skin in the area often loses elasticity and looks stretched.
Labiaplasty can be performed as part of a mommy makeover surgical bundle that also includes breast lift or breast augmentation, abdominoplasty or body contouring or liposuction.
A combination of procedures will help restore a mother’s confidence by offering her a body shape and size they feel comfortable in.
The sure thing is that labiaplasty works wonders in boosting women’s confidence and sexuality!
What are the risks of labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is considered a safe and effective procedure. Redness, tenderness and swelling are normal immediately after surgery, but these will quickly improve. Although rare, unexpected bleeding, infection, scarring, asymmetry, and nerve damage can occur. However, choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon and an accredited plastic surgery clinic diminishes labiaplasty risks.
Book an appointment with Dr. Stavrou and EIPS staff today to discuss your thoughts and concerns about labiaplasty.
- Cyprus, Nicosia & Limassol: 70088002 or +357 97873787
- Greece, Athens: +30 6971881572
- Malta, Sliema: +356 79317641
How much does a labiaplasty cost?
Labiaplasty is a cosmetic procedure that requires a talented plastic surgeon with outstanding experience in performing labiaplasties. Thus, the primary concern for every patient who wants to undergo a safe cosmetic procedure should be to find a board-certified and experienced plastic surgeon.
The cost of labiaplasty ranges based on the country and the experience of the doctor. In general, labiaplasty cost is calculated based on a variety of factors, such as:
- Pre-op Tests
- Anesthesia Used
- Type of Labiaplasty
Can I walk after labiaplasty?
Yes, you can walk after labiaplasty, but it’s essential to take it easy and avoid excessive physical activity during the initial recovery period. After the surgery, you may experience some discomfort and swelling, so it’s best to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions and gradually resume light activities like walking as you feel comfortable.
Can I drive after labiaplasty?
Driving after labiaplasty is generally not recommended for the first few days following the surgery, as you may experience discomfort and limited mobility during this initial recovery period. Additionally, pain medications or anesthesia used during the procedure can affect your ability to drive safely. It’s advisable to arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery and have assistance with transportation for the first week or until your surgeon gives you clearance to resume driving.
Can I sit after labiaplasty?
Yes, you can sit after labiaplasty, but you may experience some discomfort due to swelling and tenderness in the treated area. To minimize pressure on the surgical site and promote better healing, it’s recommended to sit on a cushion or a donut-shaped pillow for the first few weeks after the procedure. Avoid prolonged sitting during the initial recovery period and follow your surgeon’s guidelines for sitting and positioning.
Can I shower after labiaplasty?
Yes, you can typically shower after labiaplasty. However, it’s essential to follow your surgeon’s instructions about when it is safe to do so, as this may vary depending on your case. You may need to wait a day or two after the surgery to shower, and when you do, it’s crucial to be gentle and avoid direct pressure on the surgical site. Use mild, unscented soap and pat the area dry with a soft towel.
What does labiaplasty feel like?
The experience of labiaplasty can vary among individuals, but during the procedure itself, patients are usually under anesthesia, so they do not feel any pain. After the surgery, there will likely be some discomfort, swelling, and possibly mild pain in the treated area. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to manage any discomfort during the initial recovery phase. As healing progresses, the discomfort should gradually improve, and most patients are satisfied with the outcomes of labiaplasty in terms of aesthetics and comfort.
How long does it take to see the final results of labiaplasty?
The final results of labiaplasty may take several weeks to a few months to become fully evident. Initially, there will be swelling and bruising in the treated area, but this should gradually subside over the first few weeks. It is important to be patient and allow your body to heal naturally. Most patients notice significant improvements after about 6 weeks, but the final outcomes, including reduced swelling and refined appearance, may continue to develop for up to 6 months post-surgery.
Information