Labiaplasty has become one of the most requested genital aesthetic surgery procedures among women in recent years. The operation involves a surgical correction of the labia minora (inner vaginal lips), commonly referred to as the "small lips." With labia minora surgery, it is possible to address aesthetic concerns and functional discomfort caused by changes in the inner lips.
Women may consider labia minora reduction surgery when the inner lips appear larger than usual, look elongated or droopy, or cause visible asymmetry. In many cases, one labium may be longer than the other, which creates an uneven appearance and may lead to both physical discomfort and emotional distress.
Modern techniques used in aesthetic gynecology allow labiaplasty to be performed in a refined, patient-friendly way, and the procedure is generally well tolerated. Although labiaplasty was once associated mostly with celebrities in the early 1980s, it is now increasingly common worldwide. One important reason is greater awareness and easier access to reliable medical information; therefore, more women feel comfortable seeking professional help when they experience discomfort or dissatisfaction with the appearance of the genital area.
According to data released by international aesthetic surgery organizations, the number of labiaplasty procedures performed due to labial sagging and hypertrophy has significantly increased in recent years.
To receive detailed information about labiaplasty costs in Turkey, as well as labia minora aesthetic surgery, you may contact our clinic in Tekirdağ (near Istanbul).
Why Is Labiaplasty Performed?
Hypertrophy (excessive enlargement) of the labia minora may lead to several health-related and quality-of-life issues. Women who experience recurrent problems-such as repeated vaginal infections or urinary tract infections (UTIs)-may benefit from surgical correction, especially if symptoms persist despite appropriate medical treatment.
Infections and irritation can also cause pain during intercourse (dyspareunia) or discomfort after intimacy. Over time, these problems may negatively affect sexual wellbeing and may contribute to decreased libido or avoidance of intimacy.
However, the reasons for labiaplasty are not limited to infections or pain. Women with enlarged labia minora may experience discomfort in daily life, including:
- Difficulty wearing tight clothing
- Avoiding swimsuits, bikinis, and sportswear
- Constant rubbing, irritation, or sensitivity
- Discomfort while sitting for long periods
- Limitations in physical activities such as sports or ballet
In this context, labiaplasty is not always considered a purely aesthetic choice; for many women, it becomes a functional necessity that improves comfort, confidence, and overall quality of life.
What Causes Labial Sagging?
The appearance of the vulvar area may change for many reasons, and these changes may affect both the inner lips (labia minora) and outer lips (labia majora). Common causes of labia minora sagging or enlargement include:
- Hormonal changes
- Weight gain and weight loss
- Genetic factors
- Menopause
- Multiple pregnancies
- Vaginal childbirth
Although labial sagging is often associated with pregnancy and childbirth, the condition may also occur in women who have never given birth. Hormonal imbalances or genetic anatomy may naturally lead to enlargement or elongation of the labia minora.
It is also important to emphasize that labial hypertrophy is not related to the number of sexual partners or frequency of intercourse, which is a common misconception.
Does Labiaplasty Affect the Hymen?
There are several misunderstandings about labiaplasty in society. One of the most common concerns is whether the operation can harm the hymen.
During labiaplasty surgery, the surgical intervention is performed only on the labia minora. The hymen (hymenal tissue) is located approximately 1-1.5 cm inside the vaginal entrance, and it is not affected during the procedure. Therefore, damage to the hymen during labiaplasty is not expected.
Another point that should not be confused is the difference between the labia minora and the clitoral hood tissue. In standard labiaplasty, the folded skin over the clitoris is not treated. That area is addressed only in a separate procedure, commonly known as clitoral hood reduction.
However, if a patient requests, it may be possible to plan a combined approach where both labiaplasty and clitoral hood correction are performed in a single session. This can be discussed in detail during a medical consultation.
Who Can Have Labia Minora Aesthetic Surgery?
Since labiaplasty is a surgical procedure, it is important that the patient does not have a medical condition that prevents safe surgery. The procedure is not performed during pregnancy or breastfeeding. After completing pregnancy and lactation, patients may request an appointment for evaluation.
In general, any woman who experiences physical discomfort or psychological distress related to enlarged, sagging, or asymmetric labia minora may be a suitable candidate for labiaplasty.
It is not necessary to have severe physical symptoms to undergo this surgery. Some women may choose labiaplasty primarily due to emotional reasons, such as:
- Feeling self-conscious about genital appearance
- Experiencing reduced confidence
- Feeling uncomfortable in intimate relationships
- Having a negative impact on sexual wellbeing
Similarly, asymmetric labia minora may be a significant concern for many women. Instead of accepting this condition as unavoidable, surgical correction may provide both comfort and improved self-esteem.
There is no strict upper age limit for this procedure. As long as the patient is over 18 and medically eligible, labiaplasty can be performed safely after proper evaluation.
Procedure Overview (Surgical Process)
- Labiaplasty is most commonly performed under local anesthesia, allowing the patient to remain comfortable throughout the procedure. In selected cases-or if the patient prefers-general anesthesia may also be an option.
- Thanks to anesthesia, the patient does not feel pain during surgery. Before the procedure begins, the surgeon evaluates the labia minora and plans the amount of tissue to be removed. The excess tissue is then carefully excised to achieve a smaller, more balanced, and more symmetrical appearance of the inner labia.
- After reshaping is completed, the incision is closed using dissolvable (absorbable) sutures, which do not require removal. This helps support a smoother healing process and minimizes the need for additional follow-up procedures related to stitches.
- The surgery typically takes around 30 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case. However, if labiaplasty is combined with another procedure within the field of aesthetic gynecology (such as clitoral hood correction), the total operative time may be longer.
Post-Operative Period
- Labiaplasty is among the aesthetic surgical procedures that usually does not require hospitalization or prolonged clinical rest. When the procedure is performed under local anesthesia, patients can typically return home approximately 2 hours after surgery, provided they feel well.
- After the operation, the doctor may prescribe pain relief medication and antibiotics. It is important to take these medications regularly, exactly as prescribed, and for the recommended duration. Patients are also informed in detail about how to keep the treated area clean and how to maintain proper genital hygiene during the recovery period.
- Strict attention to hygiene and aftercare instructions plays a key role in achieving a smooth and comfortable healing process.
- In most cases, patients can return to work within 1 day, depending on the nature of their job and personal comfort. Around 24 hours after surgery, standing showers are usually permitted. Mild bleeding or spotting may occur in the first few days, and using a hygienic pad may be necessary.
- It is generally recommended to avoid sports and intense physical activity for at least one week after surgery. During this time, care should be taken to prevent trauma to the genital area and to avoid movements that strain the body.
- For international patients seeking labiaplasty in Turkey, Tekirdağ offers a practical location near Istanbul, which can be convenient for travel planning and post-procedure follow-up.
When Do the Stitches Dissolve After Labiaplasty?
Healing speed varies between individuals, so the exact timeline may differ. However, absorbable stitches typically dissolve and fall out within 2 to 3 weeks.
If there is any risk of early wound opening or suture separation, the doctor should be contacted immediately. Early suture opening may increase the risk of infection and bleeding, and in such cases, additional treatment-or rarely, re-suturing-may be necessary.
Sexual Life After Labiaplasty
Patients should avoid sexual intercourse until the tissue has healed and the stitches have dissolved. This period generally corresponds to the time required for the sutures to fall out.
There are two main reasons for this restriction:
- To reduce the risk of infection
- To prevent trauma to healing tissues
After the stitches have dissolved and the doctor confirms that healing is adequate, patients may return to their sexual life. During the recovery period, it is also advised to avoid environments with a higher risk of bacteria such as sea, pools, as well as high-heat environments like saunas and Turkish baths, until full healing is achieved.
Possible Negative Outcomes After Labiaplasty
To reduce potential complications, hygiene should be taken seriously-especially after using the toilet. Antibiotics prescribed by the physician should be used as directed. Not following the sexual activity restriction may lead to wound irritation, bleeding, or suture opening.
When patients follow medical advice carefully, recovery tends to be fast and comfortable. One reason is that the genital region has rich blood supply, which supports faster tissue healing compared to many other parts of the body. Therefore, post-operative restrictions are usually not long-lasting.
Can the Inner Labia Grow Back?
Once enlarged labia minora tissue is reduced to the desired size, it does not grow back in the usual sense. Therefore, repeating the surgery is typically not necessary.
However, in rare cases, a patient may request a revision procedure if the desired reduction could not be achieved in the first surgery. A second labiaplasty (revision labiaplasty) can be performed when medically appropriate.
Does Labiaplasty Leave Scars?
One of the most common concerns is scarring. In general, visible scarring is not expected after labiaplasty. The labial tissue naturally heals well, and scars in this area are usually minimal and not noticeable.
As a result, it is not typically possible to understand externally that a person has undergone labiaplasty.
Does Labiaplasty Prevent Vaginal Birth?
Women who plan pregnancy in the future often wonder whether labiaplasty can interfere with vaginal delivery. Labiaplasty does not prevent normal (vaginal) childbirth.
Having genital aesthetic surgery does not prevent a future vaginal delivery or cesarean section. It also does not affect fertility, because labiaplasty does not involve the uterus or ovaries. Therefore, it does not increase or decrease a woman's chance of becoming pregnant.
Is Labiaplasty a Risky Procedure?
Like all surgical procedures, labiaplasty carries some risks. Anesthesia-related risks may exist, although they are generally low. There is also a bleeding risk, but it is typically minimal.
The risk of infection is reduced significantly when antibiotics are used appropriately and hygiene rules are followed carefully. Still, it is important to recognize that no surgical procedure can be described as completely risk-free.
Choosing an experienced surgeon and following post-operative care instructions help minimize complications. Additionally, many potential issues-such as infections-can be effectively treated if detected early.
Overall, labiaplasty is considered a procedure with relatively low complication rates compared to many other surgical aesthetic interventions.
Is There Pain After Labiaplasty?
Experiencing mild discomfort after a surgical intervention is medically normal. After labiaplasty, pain may occur, but it is usually mild to moderate and can be controlled with prescribed pain relief medication.
If the pain becomes severe, or if it is accompanied by symptoms such as foul-smelling discharge, the patient should contact the doctor immediately, as these may indicate infection and require clinical evaluation.
Pain levels also depend on individual sensitivity and pain threshold. Some patients report minimal discomfort. The rich blood supply in the genital region contributes to faster healing, which is one reason why pain typically does not last long.
