Labiaplasty is one of our most popularly requested gynaecology procedures by women who want to restore confidence in their bodies. Labiaplasty results can be truly life-changing with the ability to remove excess labial tissue and skin surgically. The procedure is able to produce an aesthetically pleasing appearance with labia that appear smaller and more symmetrical. Labiaplasty surgery is also highly effective for correcting many functional concerns, including pain and irritation. Many of our patients commonly ask whether labiaplasty surgery is available on the NHS, given its ability to treat labial hypertrophy.
Labiaplasty, also known as labia reduction, is not usually available on the NHS if performed for cosmetic reasons. Whilst the procedure may have been carried out to relieve pain and irritation in the past, the NHS will now not fund most types of labiaplasty procedures.
Cosmetic reasons for labiaplasty
Most women decide to have a Labiaplasty to improve the cosmetic appearance of the labia minora or the labia majora. Labial hypertrophy is the term used to describe enlarged labia and results in many women experiencing significant embarrassment with a loss of self-confidence. Asymmetry of the labia is often noticeable and may be remarked upon by an intimate partner, affecting confidence even further. When enlarged labia are rubbed on clothing, irritation may develop, resulting in significant pain and discomfort. Women may need to avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing and be unaware there is a highly effective surgical treatment to relieve their symptoms.
The aesthetic appearance of the labia involves a wide spectrum of normality. What is considered normal-looking labia in one woman may be considered labial hypertrophy in another. There is no one normal type of labia, and every woman is different. Many women choose to have a labiaplasty to improve the cosmetic appearance of the labia, and the exact surgical technique chosen will depend on a woman’s needs and preferences.
Labia reduction is the most effective type of labiaplasty to reduce the size of the labia or labia minora. Many women may have hyperpigmented label edges and wish to get rid of this through the surgical removal of excessive labia tissue. The labia minora has many nerve endings which makes them more sensitive than the outer labia majora. Labia minora reduction can be carried out with a trim labiaplasty or a wedge labiaplasty. Both types of labiaplasty may be combined with a clitoral hood reduction to reduce the size of a large clitoral hood. Clitoral hood reduction is also known as a ‘hoodectomy’.
Centre for Surgery in London is home to some of the top labiaplasty surgeons in London and has an all-female team of specially handpicked theatre nurses to support our doctors during consultations and procedures. Choosing to have a Labiaplasty can be a sensitive area for many women. We have designed the experience so that you feel as well supported as possible with an attentive doctor and an all-female nursing team.
Does private medical insurance cover the cost of labiaplasty?
Insurance companies do not provide coverage for cosmetic surgery procedures, including labiaplasty. Cosmetic surgery is performed to improve the appearance of an area of the body to make a person feel better about him or herself. Insurance companies do not offer coverage for procedures which are carried out for physical enhancement and improvement of self-esteem. In rare cases where there is a significant medical condition resulting in the appearance of large labia, this may be covered by the cost of private medical insurance. Patients who are looking to have labia reduction for the improvement of cosmetic appearance or for the relief of mild symptoms of irritation will need to pay for the procedure themselves. Centre for Surgery offers finance for labiaplasty surgery through our approved finance partner, Chrysalis Finance. Labiaplasty cost UK starts from £3500 for a labia minora reduction. If this is combined with a labia majora reduction, then the price of the procedure will increase.
Medical reasons for labiaplasty
Labiaplasty is considered a type of cosmetic surgery. In rare cases, the procedure may be carried out to treat benign or malignant tumours affecting the labia or vulvovaginal area. Treatment for vulval cancer often involves labiaplasty to remove areas of cancerous tissue. There are other types of premalignant skin lesions or areas of extensive condylomata affecting the labia that may require a partial or total labiaplasty for complete and effective removal. Apart from pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions, many medical issues affecting the labia are not considered harmful to health, but they can adversely affect the function of the female genitalia. Most of these conditions would be eligible for NHS treatment and would be covered under most private health insurance policies when treated by a consultant gynaecologist.
Why have Labiaplasty at Centre for Surgery in London
If you are keen to explore the benefits of labiaplasty Surgery, we would recommend having a face-to-face consultation at our state-of-the-art Baker Street clinic in Marylebone on Baker Street. Whether you are having a labiaplasty for cosmetic or medical reasons, we will provide expert medical advice based on a thorough clinical assessment. Our surgeons are specialists in all types of cosmetic gynaecology, including vaginal tightening surgery and treat hundreds of women each year seeking labia minora reduction.
