Ideal candidates:

- Are physically healthy adults

- Have realistic expectations about outcomes

- Experience physical discomfort from labial hypertrophy

- Are not being pressured by others to undergo the procedure

- Have completed physical development (typically age 18 or older)

**Labiaplasty:**

- Can be performed under local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia

- Typically takes 1-2 hours

- May use various techniques including trim/edge resection, wedge resection, or de-epithelialization

- Results in the removal of excess labial tissue and reshaping of the labia

**Hoodectomy:**

- Often performed in conjunction with labiaplasty

- Involves removing excess prepuce tissue covering the clitoris

- Requires precise surgical technique to avoid damage to sensitive structures

Recovery typically involves:

- 1-2 weeks away from work/school

- 4-6 weeks before resuming sexual activity

- Initial swelling and discomfort for 1-2 weeks

- Cold compresses and pain medication as needed

- Wearing loose-fitting clothing

- Avoiding tampons and strenuous activity for several weeks

- Complete healing may take 3-6 months

As with any surgery, risks include:

- Infection

- Bleeding or hematoma

- Scarring

- Asymmetry

- Changes in sensation (including potential decrease or increase)

- Pain during intercourse

- Need for revision surgery

- Dissatisfaction with aesthetic results

- Psychological impact

When performed by experienced surgeons, these procedures should not negatively impact sexual function. However, there are risks:

- Potential for decreased sensation if nerves are damaged

- Possible hypersensitivity in some cases

- Psychological factors may affect sexual satisfaction post-surgery

Most patients report either no change or improvement in sexual function after healing is complete.

Potential long-term considerations include:

- Permanent changes to genital appearance

- Potential impact on childbirth (though typically minimal)

- Changes in sensation that may be permanent

- Psychological adjustment to altered body image

Important steps in the decision-making process:

- Consult with multiple board-certified gynecologists or plastic surgeons

- Understand normal anatomical variation (labia come in many shapes and sizes)

- Explore non-surgical options for any physical discomfort

- Consider psychological counseling before surgery

- Thoroughly research the procedures and recovery process

- Ensure the decision is personal and not influenced by partners or media

Key questions include:

- What are your qualifications and experience with this specific procedure?

- Can I see before and after photos of your previous patients?

- What technique do you recommend for my specific situation and why?

- What are my realistic expectations for results?

- What are the specific risks in my case?

- What is your revision policy if I'm not satisfied with results?

Non-surgical alternatives to consider:

- Wearing different clothing to reduce friction and discomfort

- Using lubricants during intercourse if that's a concern

- Psychological counseling to address body image concerns

- Waiting, as labial appearance may change with age, hormonal fluctuations, and after childbirth

- Most labiaplasty and hoodectomy procedures performed for cosmetic reasons are not covered by insurance

- Cases of significant hypertrophy causing documented medical issues may qualify for coverage

- Patients should consult with their insurance providers before proceeding

- Labiaplsty costs typically range from £1900-£8000 depending on the surgeon, location, and specific procedures

Look for surgeons who:

- Are board-certified in Gynaecology / Uro-Gynaecology, or plastic surgery

- Have specific training and extensive experience in female genital cosmetic surgery

- Can provide before/after photos and patient references

- Take time to discuss concerns and expectations

- Do not pressure patients into procedures

- Have hospital privileges (even if the procedure is performed in an outpatient setting)