Labiaplasty Sydney

On this page

Understanding Labiaplasty

What Are the Labia?

The labia are part of the external female genitalia and consist of two sets of skin folds. The labia majora (outer labia) are the larger, outer folds that protect the inner structures. The labia minora (inner labia) are the smaller, inner folds that surround the vaginal opening and urethra.

The labia minora help keep the vaginal and urethral openings moist and protected, and their edges contain many nerve endings. Labia vary widely in size, shape, colour and symmetry, and all of these variations are normal, including labia minora that extend beyond the outer labia. For some women, the length or shape of the labia minora causes physical discomfort, such as pulling or rubbing with clothing, exercise or cycling. Labiaplasty is a surgical option in those circumstances.

What Is the Clitoral Hood?

The clitoral hood (prepuce) is the fold of skin that covers and protects the clitoris. In some women, the amount of tissue in this area contributes to discomfort or irritation. Clitoral hood reduction may be performed alongside labiaplasty following assessment of each patient’s anatomy.

Why Some Women Consider Labiaplasty

Women who consider labiaplasty most often describe physical symptoms:

discomfort or pain during exercise, cycling or horse riding
irritation or chafing from tight clothing, swimwear or activewear
pulling or discomfort during sex

Some women also consider labiaplasty because of how their labia look. Because labial variation is normal, normal anatomy is part of the discussion at consultation. The labia can change with puberty, pregnancy and childbirth, hormonal change and age.

Labiaplasty Techniques

Several surgical techniques exist for labiaplasty, each with particular advantages and limitations. Dr Turner discusses which technique suits your anatomy and goals at consultation.

Trim Technique

The trim technique removes tissue along the free edge of the labia minora. Because it removes the labial edge itself, it replaces the original edge with a suture line and changes its colour and texture. It carries a risk of changes in sensitivity, and on its own it does not reduce the clitoral hood.

De-Epithelialisation Technique

The de-epithelialisation technique preserves the original labial edge, removing tissue from the inner surface rather than the edge. An incision is made on the inner and outer walls and tissue is removed from between them. It may increase the thickness of the labia, and it does not significantly reduce the length of the labial margin where a substantial reduction is needed.

Wedge Resection Technique

The wedge resection technique removes a V-shaped wedge of tissue from the thickest portion of the labia minora. This approach preserves the original labial edge. Considerations include the potential for altered sensation if full-thickness resection is performed, and the possibility of wound separation if the closure is placed under tension.

Composite Technique

Dr Turner uses a composite technique that combines elements of the approaches above, selected for each patient’s anatomy. It reduces the length of the labia minora, and the clitoral hood where indicated, while preserving the labial edge and the role of the labia minora. Dissolving sutures are used, so no suture removal is needed.

Who May Be Suitable for Labiaplasty?

Labiaplasty may be considered by women who experience physical discomfort related to the length or shape of their labia minora or clitoral hood. Suitability is assessed individually at consultation.

Age. Patients must be over 18. Dr Turner does not perform labiaplasty on patients under 18, and for patients under 25 additional consideration is given to whether the decision is well informed.
Physical health. Good overall health, with no medical conditions that may interfere with healing or raise surgical risk.
Nicotine. Smoking, vaping and other nicotine products interfere with healing and raise the risk of complications. They must stop for at least six weeks before and after surgery. See smoking, vaping and nicotine before surgery.
Stable weight. Being near your long-term weight is recommended, as weight change may affect the result.
Psychological screening. Every patient is screened for psychological factors, including body dysmorphic disorder, with referral for independent evaluation where indicated.
Realistic expectations. A clear understanding of what the procedure can and cannot achieve.

When Labiaplasty May Not Be Appropriate

Surgery may not be recommended, or may be deferred, if you are under 18, if you are still using nicotine, if screening suggests that an independent psychological assessment is needed first, or if you are planning a pregnancy in the near future. Where the labia fall within the normal range and cause no physical symptoms, the consultation may conclude that surgery is not needed.

How Is Labiaplasty Performed?

Before Surgery

Your consultations cover your symptoms, goals, medical history and expectations. A physical examination assesses your anatomy and determines the surgical approach. Pre-operative instructions cover medications, fasting and what to expect on the day.

The Operation

Labiaplasty is performed under general anaesthesia in an accredited hospital, with a specialist anaesthetist providing care throughout. The procedure typically takes about one hour, depending on complexity, and is usually performed as day surgery.

The procedure involves:

marking of incision locations along the groove between the labia majora and the labia minora or clitoral hood
marking of the tissue planned for removal
infiltration of local anaesthetic to reduce bleeding and post-operative discomfort
removal of skin and tissue from the labia minora
clitoral hood reduction where indicated
closure with absorbable sutures

Hospital Stay

Most patients are discharged the same day, once they have recovered from anaesthesia and are comfortable. You will need a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery varies between individuals. Dr Turner provides detailed aftercare instructions, and following them supports healing and may reduce the risk of complications.

First Week

Swelling, bruising and discomfort are expected in the first few days
Pain relief is prescribed
Cold compresses may help reduce swelling, as directed
Rest, and avoid prolonged sitting
Wear loose clothing and cotton underwear
Keep the area clean and dry as instructed

Weeks 2 to 4

Swelling gradually settles but may persist for several weeks
Most women return to light desk work within one to two weeks
Avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting and exercise
Continue wearing loose clothing to reduce irritation
Dissolving sutures absorb on their own

Weeks 4 to 6 and Beyond

Most patients gradually resume exercise after six weeks
Sexual intercourse and tampon use are avoided for a minimum of six weeks
Attend follow-up appointments as scheduled

Results and Limitations

Residual swelling settles over several months, so the final result is assessed after that time rather than in the first weeks. Results vary between individuals.

Symmetry. Labiaplasty can reduce a difference in length between the two sides, but some asymmetry is normal and usually remains.
Later change. The labia can change with pregnancy and childbirth, hormonal change and age, which can affect the result over time.
Sensation. Changes in sensation are possible, and are covered under risks below.
Further surgery. If too little tissue is removed, the original symptoms may remain, and revision surgery may be needed.

Risks and Complications

Like all surgery, labiaplasty carries risk. Dr Turner discusses these in detail at consultation. More general information is in risks and complications of cosmetic surgery.

General Surgical Risks

Bleeding. Some bleeding is normal; significant bleeding requiring intervention is rare but possible.
Infection. Uncommon with appropriate care, but it may occur and require antibiotic treatment.
Haematoma. A collection of blood under the skin that may require drainage.
Anaesthetic risks. Reactions to anaesthesia are rare but possible, and your anaesthetist will discuss them with you.
Deep vein thrombosis. Blood clots in the legs are a rare but serious risk of any surgery.

Procedure-Specific Risks

Wound separation. The wound edges may separate, particularly if the area is placed under tension during healing.
Scarring. Incisions are placed along the labial edges and skin creases. Some scarring is inevitable, and how scars settle varies between individuals.
Asymmetry. Some asymmetry is normal and may remain after surgery.
Changes in sensation. Temporary numbness, tingling or altered sensation is common in the early weeks. Permanent change, which may be reduced or increased sensitivity, is uncommon but possible.
Over-resection. Removing too much tissue may result in discomfort, chronic irritation or functional difficulty.
Under-resection. Removing too little may leave the original symptoms and lead to revision surgery.
Chronic pain. Persistent pain or discomfort at the surgical site is rare but may occur.
Need for revision surgery. Further surgery may be required.

Labiaplasty Cost, Medicare and Insurance

For labiaplasty including clitoral hood reduction, the cosmetic fee starts from approximately $9,300. The total includes the surgeon’s fee, the anaesthetist’s fee, hospital fees and surgical aftercare. The final figure varies with the complexity of the procedure, the time required in theatre and your level of private health insurance, and a detailed written quote is provided after your consultation. Fees for other procedures are listed on the plastic surgery prices page.

Medicare Item 35534

Labiaplasty for cosmetic reasons is not covered by Medicare or private health insurance. Medicare item 35534 covers labiaplasty in patients aged 18 or over for a structural abnormality causing significant functional impairment, where the labium extends more than 8 cm below the vaginal opening when standing at rest. Most women seeking labiaplasty do not meet this criterion. Eligibility, where relevant, is assessed at consultation.

The Consultation Process

The Medical Board of Australia’s guidelines for cosmetic surgery, in force since 1 July 2023, apply to labiaplasty. They are explained in cosmetic surgery rules in Australia.

Referral. A referral is required before your first consultation, preferably from your usual GP, or from another registered medical practitioner.
Two consultations. You will have at least two consultations with Dr Turner before surgery. The first may be by video; the second is in person and includes the examination.
Cooling-off period. After the second consultation and signed consent, a cooling-off period of at least seven days applies before surgery can be booked or a deposit paid.

Consultations for labiaplasty are held in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs and on the Northern Beaches, and surgery is performed at accredited Sydney private hospitals. You can read about Dr Scott J Turner’s training and qualifications, or contact the practice to arrange a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does labiaplasty cost in Sydney?

The fee varies with the complexity of the procedure, the time required in theatre and your level of private health insurance. The total includes the surgeon’s fee, the anaesthetist’s fee, hospital fees and surgical aftercare. For labiaplasty including clitoral hood reduction, the cosmetic fee starts from approximately $9,300. A detailed written quote is provided after your consultation.

Is labiaplasty covered by Medicare or private health insurance?

What type of anaesthesia is used during labiaplasty?

Labiaplasty is performed under general anaesthesia in an accredited hospital, so you are asleep during the procedure. Local anaesthetic is also used in the surgical area to reduce bleeding and discomfort afterwards.

How long does labiaplasty surgery take?

Labiaplasty typically takes about one hour, depending on complexity and whether clitoral hood reduction is included. It is usually performed as day surgery, so most patients go home the same day once they have recovered from the anaesthetic.

Will there be visible scarring after labiaplasty?

Incisions are placed along the labial edges and skin creases. Some scarring is inevitable with any surgery, and how scars settle varies between individuals. Dissolving sutures are used, so no suture removal is needed.

Will labiaplasty affect sexual sensation?

The labia minora contain many nerve endings, particularly along their edges, so changes in sensation can occur after labiaplasty. These range from temporary numbness or increased sensitivity to, less commonly, a permanent change, which may be reduced or increased sensation. The risk depends on the technique and the extent of surgery, and it is discussed in detail at consultation.

When can I return to work after labiaplasty?

Most patients return to light desk work within one to two weeks, provided they are comfortable. Jobs requiring significant physical activity, prolonged sitting or strenuous movement may require three to four weeks. Dr Turner provides specific guidance based on your occupation and recovery.

When can I resume exercise and sexual activity after labiaplasty?

Light walking is encouraged from the first few days. Strenuous exercise, gym workouts, running, cycling and swimming are avoided for at least six weeks. Sexual intercourse and tampon use are also avoided for a minimum of six weeks, to allow healing and reduce the risk of wound complications. Dr Turner confirms at follow-up when it is safe to resume each activity.

Do I need to wait until after having children to have labiaplasty?

Labiaplasty can be performed before or after having children. Pregnancy and childbirth may change the labia, which can affect the result of a previous labiaplasty. If you are planning to have children in the near future, Dr Turner may recommend waiting. This is discussed at consultation.

Can labiaplasty reduce asymmetry between the labia?

Labiaplasty can reduce a difference in length between the two sides. Some asymmetry is normal and usually remains after surgery, and what is realistic for your anatomy is discussed at consultation.

What is clitoral hood reduction and is it included with labiaplasty?

Clitoral hood reduction removes skin from the fold of tissue covering the clitoris. It is commonly performed alongside labiaplasty when clitoral hood tissue contributes to the symptoms being treated. Dr Turner assesses whether it is appropriate for your anatomy at consultation, and where it is indicated it is included in the same operation.

What is the minimum age for labiaplasty?

Patients must be over 18. Dr Turner does not perform labiaplasty on patients under 18, and it is generally recommended to wait until physical development is complete. For patients under 25, additional consideration is given to whether the decision is well informed.