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

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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,

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,

Thank you for your question and photo. Don't expect your gynecologist to refer you for a labiaplasty. This is an elective procedure, not covered by insurance. Your gynecologist is right when saying that your anatomy is normal. "Normal" is wide range and you do not have any functional issue, BUT a labiaplasty surgery can give you the desired results. More symmetry, better aesthetics and also being less self conscious about it. See a board certified plastic surgeon or gynecologist who specialize in female genital cosmetic surgery, not all do as you found out. I do these surgeries in our certified office surgery suite under local anesthesia with minimal oral sedation. Good luck.

It’s completely normal to feel self-conscious about that area. Your anatomy is perfectly normal. There’s a wide range of what’s considered normal. But if the shape or curling bothers you, it’s okay to want a change. A simple procedure called labiaplasty can reshape the area for greater comfort and confidence.
Be sure to consult an experience cosmetic gynecologist and discuss your concerns.

Q: Is the curling of the labia minora a natural variation?

A: No, it is not a natural variant of the labia minora. If this condition does not cause symptoms, then from a medical perspective, no intervention is necessary. If you are dissatisfied with the appearance of your external genitalia, it is advisable to consult a qualified surgeon with documented experience in labial curling. It is uncommon to uncurl the free edge of the labia. Pursuing surgical intervention may carry significant risks of complications, as documented in medical literature.