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Labial Reduction

Labial reduction is a cosmetic operation to reduce the size of the lips of the vulva. The labial reduction also known as labiaplasty is a very popular cosmetic operation in the world, mostly in Europe and USA. It is of the most preferred genitalia cosmetic procedures by women who experience shape and size changes of their vulva lips due to aging, childbirth, or congenital factors.

The labial reduction can provide a solution for this problem, by also creating positive effects on patients’ psychologies. Labiaplasty operation can also be preferred to correct the labial asymmetry problem when on vulva lip is in a different size or shape compared to other lips. It is not only a cosmetic procedure but also a functional operation.    

What Does Labiaplasty Mean?

Labiaplasty means correction or reconstruction of the genital lips. Reducing the inner lips is called labia minor, or labia minor reduction. Labium in Latin means lip, and labia is the plural version, of lips. Labia plastic means the reconstruction of the labia to achieve a more symmetrical and enhanced look.

Why Do I Need Labial Reduction?

The reason for labiaplasty operation is the sagging or loosen genital lips or asymmetry between the lips can also be the reason for the labial reduction. If the patient is not satisfied with their previous labiaplasty operation, the second operation is called revision labiaplasty. Although labial reduction seems mostly about the outer look of the genitalia, it is not. Sagging or asymmetric lips cause a lot of concerns for women, leading to sexual problems and insecurity. 

What Are The Conditions Require Labial Reduction Operation?

The following are the conditions that require the operation:

  • Body dysmorphic disorder
  • Discomfort when walking or cycling
  • Discomfort when sitting
  • Insecurity 
  • Confidence loss
  • Apparent genitalia when wearing tight clothes
  • Irritation caused by friction
  • Smell, infection, and sweating problems after exercising 
  • Vaginal infection
  • Lack of sexual drive
  • Discomfort during sexual intercourse
  • Chronic local irritation

Does Labial Reduction Damage Hymen?

Labial reduction or labiaplasty operation does not damage the hymen, or any part inside the vagina. Labial reduction is performed on the vulva, the outer part of the genitalia. However, the operation must be performed by a professional surgeon.

Who Can Perform The Operation?

Labial reduction operations must be performed by a professional plastic surgeon who is experienced in labiaplasty operations. Doctors who are trained in genital procedures are not the best choice for the operation. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists released a paper that genital cosmetic procedures must be performed by a professional surgeon experienced in this area to achieve desired results without any complications or risks.   

What Are The Methods For Labiaplasty?

Labiaplasty methods are related to patients’ conditions, expectations, and the surgeon’s recommendation after a detailed examination. The following are the main methods used in the labial reduction

  • Z plasty
  • Pedicle Reconstruction
  • Laser Labiaplasty
  • V plasty
  • Partial Resection  
  • Delamination 

Z plastic is the removal of tissue in the shape of Z, pedicle reconstruction is the removal of a triangle-shaped tissue and shifting of the upper segment. Partial resection is the removal of the sides of the lips. V plasty is the removal of a tissue in the V shape which is the most efficient and popular method in labiaplasty. 

How Long Does Labial Reduction Take?

The operation duration is related to the method used. The average duration is around 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. The operation may take longer for patients who have naturally large lips. The most important part of the operation is removing the tissue on the clitoris. If this tissue cannot be removed correctly, it may cause a penis shape appearance. 

What Are The Risks Of Labial Reduction?

There are risks of the operation, as in any other surgical procedure. However, professional operations minimize such risks and can achieve desired results. Patients may experience risks after a non-professionally performed operation such as asymmetry. The following are the most common risks of the reduction:

  • Pain during sexual intercourse
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Asymmetry 
  • Difficulties when urinating
  • Deformities on the sides of the lips

If the tissue on the clitoris is removed more than the required amount, the clitoris may become irrupted due to friction. Also, papulosis or sensation loss may be experienced. 

What Are The Advantages?

Advantages of labial reduction are increasing sexual pleasure, a better appearance, healthier genitalia, and eliminating sexual problems. Also, women may be experiencing psychological problems due to sagging or loosened lips, this can be eliminated by labiaplasty operations.


Experience newfound confidence with Labial Reduction at Forbest Clinic, Istanbul. Our compassionate team of surgeons is committed to enhancing your comfort and self-esteem through a procedure tailored to your unique needs.

Ready to embrace a life of greater comfort and self-confidence? Schedule your consultation with our Labial Reduction specialists at Forbest Clinic today. Your journey toward renewed self-assurance begins here.

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