In recent years there has been an increasing interest in cosmetic surgery for female genitalia. The most popular being labiaplasty, (reduction of the labia minora, “inner lips”).
The predominant cause of large or protruding labia is congenital; however it can be due to being stretched during childbirth or just skin laxity as we age.
Women may experience discomfort in tight fitting pants, riding a bike or during sexual intercourse, which can cause embarrassment.
Cosmetic procedures of the labia minora are requested by some women who have concerns about irregular shapes or dark pigment and these irregularities are affecting there self esteem when naked.
There are several techniques available, from simple amputation (cutting away excess tissue), wedge resection; removal of wedge from the middle of the labia.
Dr Zurek’s preferred technique is the de-epithelialisation method, which not only allows precise reshaping of the labia as well as removal of dark pigmented skin.
The procedure is performed under local anaesthetic and sedation. The procedure takes 1-2 hours.
Dr Zurek’s technique involves reshaping the labia minora, without interfering with underlying tissue; allowing precise reduction, modification of thickness and removal of the uneven edges and darker pigment.
After a brief recovery period, you will be able to go home the same day with a sanitary pad in place.
The sutures do not need to be removed and will dissolve in 7-21 days.
It is recommended to bathe every day in a salt bath with warm water for at least 15 minutes.
Antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection and mild analgesics for discomfort will be given too you.
You will experience some swelling and discomfort in the first week and comfortably warm, salt water baths are recommended daily in addition to normal showering.
The full healing process is expected to take 4 weeks, during which time sexual intercourse should be avoided.
The hymen is a ring-like skin membrane located in the lower segment of the vagina.
Some women request restoration of the hymen for ethnic, cultural or religious reasons.
Reconstruction of the hymen is performed under local anaesthetic, using soft sutures which dissolve within 14 days. When sexual relations occur later on, it will tear causing some bleeding.
In patients with strong hair their own hair can be used instead of suture material, which could be of importance in some cultures.