Trim vs Wedge - can I request the wedge technique?

Thank you for your question. The most common labiaplasty techniques are the edge trim and wedge resection. There are advantages and disadvantages to each approach. It has never been shown that one approach is "better" than the others. The edge excision removes a portion of the labia minora edge. The wedge technique removes a wedge of tissue from the most protuberant portion of the labia minora. There is significant variability in genital anatomy and each patient has different concerns and goals. All of this is discussed in detail at the consultation and taken into account when creating the surgical plan. In some patients the edge trim may best address their concerns and in others the wedge is preferred. However, I do tend to favor the wedge in many patients as the scars are short and well concealed, and the natural labial edge is preserved. Despite the approach, the surgical plan should be designed to address the patient's concerns and result in aesthetic proportion and balance of the vulvar structures.I think you should discuss your concerns with your surgeon. It may help for you to understand why they chose that approach for you. I find that reviewing before and after labiaplasty photos with your surgeon to show what your aesthetic preference is can be very helpful.

It’s great that you’re learning about the different labiaplasty techniques for the labia minora. Understanding your options is a key first step. Just as important is knowing how your cosmetic surgeon chooses the right approach for your specific goals. Labiaplasty isn’t one size fits all, and a thoughtful decision-making process really matters.

Be sure to consult a surgeon who has extensive labiaplasty experience and truly takes the time to hear your concerns. Take a close look at their labiaplasty before and after photos, too. This will give you a feel for their aesthetic style and results.

Remember, labiaplasty is as much about artistry as it is about precision. Choosing the right technique for your labiaplasty can make all the difference in how confident and comfortable you feel with your outcome.

It depends on the skill set of your surgeon. I ask my patients what the look is that they are going for. Some say a natural look, some say a Barbie look, some say I want no dark tissue and some say I want it smooth! All of this determines the technique and often I find myself using a combination or modification in techniques to achieve the result my patient wishes for. As others have stated, look at your surgeons work and see if the results he’s presenting is what you like. Wedge done in an unskilled hand can go very wrong. Too much removed and tension created can cause a separation. And now you have PAC Man labia….so make sure you’re comfortable with the surgeon you pick.