Gynecologist won't refer me for labiaplasty. Is there any procedure that can make the right labia less prominent? (Photo)

Question

I'm 19, 151 lbs, 5'5". My right labia minora has always bothered me how it looks, but any time I bring it up with my gynecologist he just says it looks normal and I don't need to change anything. I hate how it curls up on the side. Is there anything I can do or you would recommend for me to do?

Gary J. Alter, MD · Answer

A labiaplasty must be performed by a surgeon with experience. I am the inventor of the central wedge technique in 1995 and published in the plastic surgery textbooks. It is also known as the "V" or wedge technique. Gynecologists and most plastic surgeons perform a labiaplasty very differently. They essentially trim the labia minora (inner vaginal lips) and leave a long suture line instead of the normal labial edge. Their technique is the same whether a scalpel or a laser is used. In contrast, the central wedge removes triangles of tissue and bring the normal edges together. Thus, the normal labial edges, normal color, and normal anatomy are preserved, but the darkest labial tissue is usually removed. I have performed the central wedge thousands of times, and it is very rare for me to have holes or significant healing issues. If fact, about 40% of my female genital surgeries are revisions of botched labiaplasties from other surgeons. The wedge technique is a surgical technique that allows reduction of one side that can match the other side whereas a trim technique can't match as the labia edge is removed in that technique.

No matter the technique, an inexperienced or unskilled surgeon can lead to a high rate of complications, chronic scar discomfort, labial deformities, and further surgery.

Gary J. Alter, M.D.
Beverly Hills, CA - Manhattan, NY

No matter the technique, an inexperienced or unskilled surgeon can lead to a high rate of complications, chronic scar discomfort, labial deformities, and further surgery.

Gary J. Alter, M.D.
Beverly Hills, CA - Manhattan, NY

Mehmet Bekir Sen, MD · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question.
If the appearance of your labia minora is bothering you, then labiaplasty is absolutely a valid option, even if your gynecologist says it is “normal.” What matters is how you feel, not whether it fits within a medical definition of normal anatomy.
With the proper technique, labiaplasty is a safe and highly effective procedure. When performed by an experienced surgeon, you should not have problems with sensation, healing, or function. The goal is to correct the curling or asymmetry you described while preserving natural shape and sensitivity.
If you decide to move forward, make sure you choose a surgeon who specializes in female genital aesthetic surgery and uses nerve-sparing, precision techniques.
Best wishes,Dr. Mehmet Bekir ŞenGyneacologistGenital Surgery SpecialistIstanbul, Turkey

Mark N. Scheinberg, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questionThe answer is yes but you should be careful when making your decision on what to do. There are actually two pair if inner labia. A lower pair that is inserting into the clitoris and an upper pair (called prepuce) that is entering and affecting the lower pair. This excess skin of the upper pair should be removed freeing up the lower pair before reducing the lower pair. once this is done the lower pair may be treated best by , in my opinion, by the natural edge or trimming techniques. see the video below to get further info.

Richard Bloy, MD, FACOG · Answer

Yes, there is definitely an answer to what you wish to achieve, and normal is definitely in the eyes of the beholder. If not, we wouldn't have any type of cosmetic procedures. The comments you made are very common, and we can remake the tissue to virtually exactly what you want. This is now a very common procedure. We do see this quite often in young women because they just realize now that the possibilities to repair it exist, and they don't want to bother with this for the next 20 years.
You should be very happy with the results of labiaplasty, as the procedure is individually designed around your specific wishes. It's best to look at the before and after photos from the surgeon you are considering and doing a consultation with them (even over the phone if they live outside of your area.)

Oliver Chang, MD · Answer

Based off your photo - your right side is larger than your left side - if it bothers you aesthetically, yes there is a procedure where the labia minora can be trimmed. If it bothers you with discomfort, even more of a means to address it. Remember having this procedure does have risks, like poor scarring, potential for numbness to the area, and there will always be asymmetry between left and right side. And you would need to see a surgeon who addresses this versus your GYN. See a few consultations prior to making a decision.

Courtenay Poucher, MD · Answer

Hi realheather!First: I’m so impressed with your self advocacy at only 19 years old! I’m very proud of you for articulating your concerns to your gynecologist.Second: Two things can be true at once. You can dislike how your labia minora is asymmetrical and “curls” - and your labia minora can be anatomically “normal.”The most important part of your question is this: You have always been bothered with how your labia looks.I’ve treated literally thousands of patients who have shared the same - their labia is“normal,” but it’s still causing them discomfort and/or embarrassment.You deserve to feel comfortable and confident in your body. How we feel about our most intimate parts can dramatically affect our relationships with ourselves and others.Because you share that only one side of your labia minora bothers you, I wouldrecommend right sided labia minoraplasty. This procedure, performed in office with localanesthetic, will result in symmetrical labia minora. I hope that this answer reaches you in good health and I wish you the very best! Best Wishes, Dr. Poucher

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Generally speaking, a referral isn’t needed for labiaplasty since it’s generally not covered by insurance. For this reason, you can seek a board certified plastic surgeon to perform your surgery.

Helen Otteno, MD, FACOG · Answer

Hello realhealther, 
Yes, your labia looks normal. The most important thing is what is the normal you are comfortable with. I believe this could be achieved via labiaplasty. Please consult a gynecologist with additional training in cosmetic gynecology. Best,

Oscar A. Aguirre, MD, FPMRS · Answer

Hello Realheather,
Thank you for including a photo with your question. Your interest in having smaller labia that don't curl like yours do is very common and can be achieved with a labiaplasty.
Your next step is setting up a consultation with a cosmetic gynecologist. Go to the link below to see hundreds of before and after photos where you will find many examples that are similar to you. From that link you can schedule a virtual consultation via phone or zoom, at which time we can discuss in depth your anatomy, expectations and concerns. Women from all over the world travel to my Center for their Intimate Makeover.
Best of luck,

Marco A. Pelosi III, MD, FACOG, FACS · Answer

Labiaplasty is a self-funded procedure. You only need referrals for procedures that are funded by medical insurance. So, you're in the right place by asking your question here. Labiaplasty will effectively reduce the skin that curls up and bothers you. Make sure you see an expert so that you don't get botched. Travel if you must. Feel free to schedule a virtual consultation. Check out the video to learn more about this procedure.

Gynecologist won't refer me for labiaplasty. Is there any procedure that can make the right labia less prominent? (Photo)

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