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Labiaplasty

Labia Minora Reduction · Vulvar Contouring

Labiaplasty reduces or reshapes the labia minora, the inner vaginal lips. It is for women who experience physical discomfort or self-consciousness related to labial size or asymmetry.

Labiaplasty
Duration1–1.5 hours
AnaesthesiaGeneral, or local with sedation
Hospital stayDay case
Back to work5–7 days

Who this procedure suits

This surgery addresses labia minora that are enlarged, asymmetric, or irregular in shape, which can cause pain during exercise, cycling or intercourse, chafing under clothing, or persistent self-consciousness. It reshapes tissue that is bothering you physically or emotionally; it does not change vaginal tightness or sexual function.

A good candidate if

  • Discomfort or pain from labial tissue during exercise, cycling or sex
  • Visible pulling or tugging of labia in fitted clothing or swimwear
  • Noticeable asymmetry between the two sides causing physical irritation
  • Difficulty with hygiene due to excess or folded labial tissue

Not suitable if

  • Active vaginal or vulvar infection
  • Pregnancy or plans to conceive in the near future
  • Unrealistic expectations about appearance or sexual outcomes
  • Undiagnosed vulvar pain that has not been medically assessed

How the procedure is performed

Consultation

Dr Cardinali examines the area, discusses your symptoms and goals, and explains which surgical technique suits your anatomy.

Preparation

You will receive pre-operative instructions, including stopping certain medications and arranging someone to drive you home.

Surgery

Excess labial tissue is trimmed or reshaped using a technique chosen for your anatomy, then closed with dissolvable sutures.

Follow-up

You are seen within the first two weeks to check healing, then again as swelling settles over the following weeks.

Labiaplasty

Recovery — what actually happens

Day 1-3Rest with legs slightly apart, use ice packs over gauze, and wear loose, breathable underwear.
Week 1Swelling and bruising are noticeable. Avoid tampons, sitting for long periods, and any friction to the area.
Week 2-4Gradual return to daily activities and light exercise. Sutures dissolve on their own during this time.
Week 4–6Most swelling has settled. Sexual activity can usually resume once your surgeon confirms healing is complete.
Month 6-12Final tissue softening and scar maturation take place.

Honest medicine — the risks

Every surgical procedure carries potential risks. Risks vary with the procedure and your health, and the surgeon will discuss them with you along with the measures used to reduce them:

Scarring along incision linesMeticulous suturing technique and instructions on wound care to support fine healing
InfectionSterile technique during surgery and antibiotic guidance if needed afterward
Delayed wound healingCareful tissue handling and clear aftercare instructions on hygiene and activity
Bleeding or haematomaGentle tissue technique and activity restriction in the early days
Temporary numbness or altered sensationNerve-sparing surgical approach
Asymmetry or irregular contourCareful pre-operative marking and conservative, symmetrical tissue removal
Venous thromboembolismEarly mobilisation and risk assessment before surgery

Frequently asked questions

Will labiaplasty affect my sensation or sexual function?

The goal is to preserve normal sensation. Some temporary numbness can occur during healing, and it usually resolves over weeks to months.

How much tissue is removed?

The amount is planned individually to relieve your specific discomfort while keeping the area looking natural.

Can I combine labiaplasty with other procedures?

Some patients combine it with other intimate area procedures. This is discussed case by case during consultation.

When can I resume exercise?

Light walking is fine within days. More strenuous exercise, including cycling and swimming, is usually delayed for around four to six weeks.

Will there be a visible scar?

Incisions are placed along the natural edge of the labia and fade considerably over months, though some fine scarring is normal.

Is this procedure right for you?

The only correct answer comes from a clinical examination. Book a consultation — in person, or by video if you are outside the UAE.

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