What Is Labia Minora Reduction?

Labia Minora Reduction, also known as labiaplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves the partial removal of the hypertrophic portion of the labia minora (inner folds of the skin on both sides of vaginal opening).

There are various techniques involved with the labia minora reduction surgery, where the best technique is the one in which the surgeon is most comfortable and can achieve notable and consistent results. The procedure may be combined with a clitoral hood reduction (removal of the skin excess around the clitoris) and labia majora surgery (reduction/augmentation/lifting).

When performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, Labia Minora Reduction is considered safe and effective. However, as with all surgery, risks should be discussed during consultation.

Who Is It For?

Labia Minora Reduction may be suitable for patients who:

• Patients who notice excessive length of labia majora than can interfere with regular activities and / or look non aesthetically pleasing.
• Asymmetries
• Those seeking improved contour or symmetry of the area. 
• Patients with realistic expectations 
• Patients seeking minimally invasive treatments. 
• Difficult to maintain proper hygiene with excessive tissue.

What are the techniques involved?

There are different techniques, and they differ by the type of incision in the labia minora:

• Trim / Edge technique: it is indicated in those patients with thick, pigmented labia minora and with uneven and bulging edges. It is performed by means of a longitudinal cut to remove the portion of the pigmented labia minora that exceeds the labia majora, creating a more symmetrical look.
• De-epithelialization technique (Choi): A de-epithelialization of the central area of ​​both the medial and lateral part of the labium minor is performed to remove the outer layer of skin (epithelium). It has the advantage of reducing excess vertical tissue and preserving the sensitive and erectile characteristics of the lip.
• Wedge or “V” (Alter) technique: It can be a good option for those patients with thin lips with well-defined borders. It reduces the size and length of the labia minora through a V-shaped incision. According to some authors, the main advantage is that the scar goes unnoticed, however, there is a higher rate of surgical incisions reopening (dehiscence) due to tension and it does not achieve the removal of the pigmented border. This is a common reason for why patients select the Trim technique.
• Z-plasty technique: The advantage of this technique is that the tension of the suture is reduced and neither the shape nor the colour of the free edge is altered. 

Preparation

Before surgery, patients typically undergo:

• Medical consultation and physical examination 
• Review of medications 
• Realistic expectations with what can and cannot be achieved
• Recommendation of the best treatment option
• Smoking cessation

Since it is a low risk and short procedure, it could be done in controlled diabetic patients once informed with the higher risk for infection and healing process overall.