Labiaplasty in Paris – Labia Minora Reduction
Introduction – What is labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is a form of female intimate surgery aimed at reducing hypertrophy of the labia minora when they are excessively long, asymmetric, or cause discomfort.
This discomfort may be functional (sports activities, sexual intercourse, tight clothing) and/or aesthetic and can affect intimate comfort and quality of life.
Why consider labiaplasty? (Indications)
Labiaplasty may be considered in the following situations:
- Physical discomfort during sports or when wearing tight underwear, leggings or swimwear
- Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse
- Aesthetic concerns related to the appearance of the labia minora
- Marked asymmetry or congenital hypertrophy
- Post-pubertal or post-childbirth changes resulting in excess tissue
It is important to note that the discomfort or self-consciousness experienced is not always proportional to the anatomical degree of hypertrophy. Perceptions may sometimes be influenced by social or media standards.
The decision to undergo labiaplasty is primarily a personal choice, evaluated during a specialized consultation, within a medical and ethical framework.
Many patients report improved comfort and intimate quality of life. Outcomes remain individual and depend on anatomy and initial expectations.
Intimate surgery for women
LABIA & CLITORIS
VAGINA & VULVA
EPISIOTOMY
THE URETHRA
Goal of labiaplasty
The goal is to achieve a more harmonious morphology and improved comfort, while fully respecting the anatomical function and sensitivity of the labia minora.
Surgical techniques
The choice of surgical technique depends on anatomy, skin quality, degree of hypertrophy, pigmentation of the free edge, and the patient’s functional and aesthetic expectations.
The objective is a natural, proportionate and stable result.
Longitudinal (edge) resection
This technique consists of removing excess tissue along the free edge of the labia minora.
It allows reduction of the pigmented edge and may be particularly suitable for certain patients, including smokers, as healing is often more predictable.
Wedge (V-shaped) resection
This technique enables a harmonious reduction while preserving the natural contour of the labia minora as much as possible.
It is particularly appropriate for patients with a low implantation of the labia minora, offering a subtle lifting effect while respecting anatomical function.
In some cases, an additional aesthetic improvement of the clitoral hood may be achieved.
Associated procedures
Depending on anatomy and expectations, labia minora reduction may be combined with:
- reduction of excess clitoral hood skin
- labia majora reshaping or augmentation
- overall vulvo-clitoral harmonization
Procedure
- Average duration: 30 to 60 minutes
- Performed as an outpatient procedure (same-day discharge)
- Anesthesia: local, local with sedation, or general, depending on the case
- A pre-operative consultation with the anesthesiologist is mandatory
- Surgery may ideally be scheduled shortly after menstruation for comfort, although this is not mandatory
Recovery and aftercare
Post-operative recovery is generally straightforward.
Swelling and bruising may occur during the first few days. Pain is usually moderate and well controlled with simple pain medication.
Stitches are absorbable and do not require removal.
Initial healing is typically achieved within 1 to 2 weeks, with temporary discomfort.
Appearance and comfort continue to improve over 2 to 3 weeks, as swelling decreases and sutures dissolve.
Showers are allowed from the day after surgery. Daily intimate hygiene is recommended, along with appropriate local care.
Cotton underwear and loose, comfortable clothing are advised.
Sexual intercourse can usually be resumed after 3 to 6 weeks, depending on healing and comfort, following medical advice and with gentle resumption.
Results and realistic expectations
The result becomes visible as inflammation subsides, generally within 2 to 3 weeks, and continues to improve progressively.
Functional and aesthetic benefits are usually long-lasting.
Pricing and coverage
In Paris, fees usually start around €1,500 in the simplest cases. Costs may vary depending on complexity, anesthesia, clinic fees and associated procedures.
A personalized quotation is provided after consultation.
Regarding insurance coverage, labiaplasty may be motivated by functional, aesthetic or personal comfort reasons.
To date, there are no strict medical criteria defined by the French national health insurance (CPAM) that guarantee systematic coverage.
In practice, when performed in a private clinic, labiaplasty is most often considered a non-covered procedure, due to technical conditions, operating facilities and professional fees.
Each situation is evaluated individually during consultation to clearly explain costs and the frequent absence of insurance coverage.
FAQ
Is labiaplasty painful?
Pain is generally moderate and varies between patients. It is most often controlled with simple pain medication.
How long does healing take after labiaplasty?
Initial healing is usually achieved within 1 to 2 weeks, while appearance and comfort continue to improve over 2 to 3 weeks, as swelling decreases and absorbable sutures dissolve.
When can I return to sports after labiaplasty?
Sports may usually be resumed after about 2 weeks, once initial healing is complete.
For high-friction activities such as cycling or horseback riding, waiting 1 to 2 months is generally recommended.
When can I resume sexual intercourse?
Sexual intercourse can usually be resumed after 3 to 6 weeks, depending on healing and comfort, following medical advice and with gentle resumption.
Are scars visible after labiaplasty?
Scars are located in an intimate area and typically become very discreet over time. Final appearance depends on the technique used, healing quality and individual factors.
Is the result permanent?
Results are generally long-lasting. Long-term evolution may vary depending on individual factors such as pregnancy, weight changes and aging.
Are there risks or complications?
As with any surgical procedure, complications are possible, although uncommon. Delayed healing or wound separation is more frequent in smokers. Minor aesthetic refinements may occasionally require a touch-up.
What is the difference between labiaplasty and nymphoplasty?
“Nymphoplasty” is the medical term used in French referring specifically to reduction of the labia minora.
“Labiaplasty” is the commonly used English term to describe surgery of the labia, most often the labia minora in this context.
Should I stop hormonal contraception before surgery?
An adjustment may be discussed depending on individual risk factors, in coordination with the anesthesiologist.
Will I need time off work?
Time off work is often not necessary, depending on the type of job and post-operative comfort. Recommendations are personalized during consultation.
Consultation
A consultation allows evaluation of anatomy, explanation of surgical techniques and recovery, and delivery of a personalized quotation.
The objective is an informed decision, within a medical and ethical framework, tailored to each individual situation.
You are encouraged to discuss your concerns openly with Dr Adriana Guzman, who will listen carefully and guide you appropriately.