Gynaecological and intimate surgery
Labiaplasty / labia minora reduction
Conservative reduction or reshaping of the labia minora for functional symptoms or an elective request.
Explained in clear language
What it is
It may be considered for rubbing, pulling, pain with exercise or sex, or persistent concern. Normal length and asymmetry vary widely.
How it is performed
- 1
Individual assessment and indication
- 2
Explanation, alternatives and consent
- 3
Procedure with appropriate safeguards
- 4
Results, aftercare and follow-up
Askabide visual archive
The procedure, also explained through images
The photographs come from Askabide’s clinical and “more information” sections. They have been selected by clinical area to support the explanation; not every image is a literal representation of each manoeuvre and none replaces an individual medical explanation.
Assessment and indication
The indication is decided after listening to the reason for attending, reviewing history and explaining the clinical question that needs to be answered.
How it is carried out
The technique, sample collection, device or intervention is adapted to the individual situation and explained before it starts.
Results and follow-up
The result is not interpreted in isolation: symptoms, examination, age, history and complementary tests are considered together.
Clinical interpretation
What is important to understand before deciding
What it can contribute
This procedure addresses a specific clinical question. Its usefulness depends on the indication, timing and technique being appropriate for your situation.
What it cannot determine on its own
No test or procedure should be interpreted outside its clinical context. A normal result does not dismiss persistent symptoms, and an abnormal finding does not automatically mean serious disease.
What happens afterwards
Depending on the result, the next step may be discharge, observation, repeat testing, further assessment or treatment. The plan is explained before the episode is considered complete.
Expanded information
Questions we answer during the consultation
The technical information on this page helps you prepare for the consultation. The final decision is made after assessing your circumstances and confirming that the likely benefit outweighs the risk.
How is the decision to operate made?
The indication should be based on symptoms, findings, alternatives and realistic expectations. In intimate surgery, functional need and aesthetic preference must be clearly distinguished.
What anaesthesia and recovery are required?
This depends on the technique, duration, extent and medical history. Anaesthesia, pain relief, wound care, activity, work, exercise and sexual activity are explained beforehand.
Which risks need to be understood?
In addition to bleeding, infection or pain, there may be scarring, asymmetry, altered sensation, need for revision or a result different from expectations. Consent must be procedure-specific.
What it is used for and when
- Functional symptoms persisting despite conservative measures.
- Clinically assessed injury, hypertrophy or asymmetry.
- Autonomous cosmetic request after full information.
How it is performed
Tissue to preserve and remove is marked and surgery performed under local anaesthetic, sedation or anaesthesia depending on the case. Absorbable sutures are used and sensory anatomy protected.
Preparation
Preparation includes surgical consultation, review of medicines and history, pre-operative tests when needed, fasting and anaesthesia instructions, accompaniment and informed consent.
Tell the team beforehand if pregnancy is possible, you take anticoagulants, have allergies, active infection or a relevant medical condition. Specific instructions take priority over the general information on this page.
After the procedure
You will receive written advice on pain relief, hygiene, activity, sexual intercourse, wound care, review and warning signs. Recovery varies by procedure and individual.
Risks, limitations and alternatives
It can cause bleeding, infection, wound breakdown, scarring, asymmetry, persistent pain, hypersensitivity or loss of sensation. There is no strong evidence that it guarantees improved sexual function.
Clinical judgement and evidence
Before surgery, diagnosis, goals, non-surgical alternatives, anaesthesia, recovery and complications should be clear. For cosmetic genital surgery, evidence for cosmetic or sexual benefit may be limited and outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Related procedures
Askabide Klinika
Not sure which procedure you need?
You do not need to choose a test on your own. Tell us what concerns you and the team will guide you after assessing your situation.