Labiaplasty in London
Labiaplasty Surgery in London for Clitoral Hood Reduction & Labia Reduction with Centre for Surgery. For some adult women, enlargement of the labia minora and / or labia majora can cause aesthetic, functional or psychological issues. Women who have enlargement of one or both sides of the labia minora may report increased irritation, inflammatory changes, reduced personal hygiene during menses, painful intercourse. Many women with labia minora enlargement or asymmetry also report increased levels of anxiety or self-consciousness, embarassment or feelings of being insecure in sexual relationships or when wearing tight clothing. This has resulted in more requests for aesthetic surgery of the labia minora and / or labia majora. Dr Dimitriadi at Centre for Surgery performs labia reduction surgery to improve labial appearance and also address functional aspects and alleviate psychological concerns.
There are three main types of labiaplasty procedure:
If you are more concerned with vaginal looseness or laxity, you may wish to consider a vaginoplasty.
Our specialist centre at 106 Crawford Street was recently inspected and rated by the Care Quality Commission as good across all five domains of care.
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RealSelf top doctor status is awarded to less than 10% of the RealSelf doctor community. This status is earned by achieving consistently high patient satisfaction (from RealSelf reviews), getting excellent feedback on expert answers to patient questions, and after investing significant time in Q&A and other doctor activity. RealSelf top doctors are rated among the very best surgeons in the United Kingdom and USA.
Labiaplasty procedures are increasing
The popularity of labiaplasty has increased in recent years. There is now an increased public awareness of problems with overdeveloped labia minora. An increasing proportion of women seek treatment not only for aesthetic reasons but also for functional reasons. There is a wide range of normal variation in the size and shape of the labia although in recent years the trend is more towards a smaller and more compact appearance. The reasons for seeking a labiaplasty include both aesthetic and functional concerns. It is important for the specialist gynaecologist to understand the full range of symptoms associated with larger or mishapen labia minora and the best method for surgical correction. According to several recently published studies in the medical literature, labiaplasty has a satisfaction rate of over 95%. As more research is conducted into labiaplasty, Dr Dimitriadi is better able to understand reasons for the procedure and recommend the best techniques for an optimal result.
The rise in popularity of waxing (Brazilian or Hollywood), shaving and laser hair removal has also made many women aware of the appearance of their genitalia. Women may compare the appearance of their genitalia to the appearances found on the internet. Unfortunately exposure to unrealistic media images may make some women feel particularly self-conscious and decide to have vaginal rejuvenation surgery.
Labiaplasty Specialist Dr Paraskevi Dimitriadi
Dr Paraskevi Dimitriadi is a specialist aesthetic gynaecologist and has trained at some of the world’s leading hospitals in all aspects of gynaecology. Dr Dimitriadi continues to practice in the NHS at University College London Hospitals NHS Trust (UCLH). She is a active member of the research team at the renowned Woman’s Health Institute at UCLH and lectures both nationally and internationally on a range of topics in aesthetic gynaecology. She is a full member of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) and the European Society of Aesthetic Gynaecology (ESAG).
As a female surgeon, Dr Dimitriadi understands her patient’s most delicate needs and preferences, which allows her to create a personalised and bespoke labiaplasty treatment plan to meet the patient’s goals. She is regarding as one of the top labiaplasty surgeons in London by her peers and brings years of experience to each and every procedure she performs. Dr Dimitriadi brings together her expertise across both surgical and non-surgical gynaecological treatments – unrivalled in London and exclusive to Centre for Surgery.
Dr Dimitriadi is known for her caring, patient-centred approach, supporting all her patients and she always strives to optimise patient outcomes at stages of the patient journey.
Why choose Centre for Surgery in London for your Labiaplasty procedure?
Dr Dimitriadi is a true highly specialised expert in her field of aesthetic gynaecology and Women’s health. She has dedicated her practice to a small number of procedures that she performs frequently. Being trained as a gynaecologist and with her extensive background in Women’s health allows her to assess you in a holistic manner as she regularly performs gynaecological procedures for conditions such as endometriosis, menorrhagia and other common conditions affecting women of childbearing age. We do not subscribe to the ‘Jack of all trades’ model of medicine. All specialists at Centre for Surgery perform procedures within a very focussed remit for optimal outcomes.
If a patient wishes to be considered for liposuction, abdominoplasty or breast surgery, Dr Dimitriadi often works very closely with her plastic surgeon colleagues, Dr Tillo and Dr Mitsakos. It is quite common for procedures to be combined and our plastic surgeons are able to perform procedures such as liposuction in the same procedure alongside Dr Dimitriadi.
- All-female team for your consultation, procedure and aftercare – Dr Dimitriadi has hand picked a highly skilled team of specialist female nurses.
- Significant experience in all types of labiaplasty – wedge resection, trim method and de-epithelialisation.
- Choice of local anaesthetic or general anaesthetic.
- We own and manage our own surgical facilities. Properly performed labiaplasty takes time and should not be rushed. Dr Dimitriadi performs a maximum of two labiaplasty procedures in a day. We do not cram 5-6 procedures into one day like other providers. You want your surgeon to be well-rested and mentally and physically sharp to perform labiaplasty to get the very best results.
- Dr Dimitriadi lives and works in London. We don’t work with ‘fly-in, fly-out’ surgeons. This is very important because whilst your surgeon takes all precautions to minimise complications, complications can and do occur and our surgeons are readily available to manage any issues if and when they arise.
Risks of going abroad for cosmetic surgery
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To find out more about the labiaplasty procedure, why not give us a call on 0207 993 4849 and speak with one of our expert patient coordinators and make that first step to a new you.
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Labiaplasty Surgeons in London
Labiaplasty, which is also known as a labial reduction, is a suitable surgery for women who consider their labia minora to be too big or uneven. A labia minora that is too large can cause discomfort during certain activities or while wearing certain clothing. There is a range of causes for a large labia minora. This includes hormonal changes, childbirth, ageing or simply the shape when you were born.
Anatomy of the female genitalia:
Mons pubis – the defined area of adipose tissue in a triangular shape above the labia and covered by pubic hair
Labia majora – these are the outer lips of tissue that extend backwards from the mons pubis. The labia majora contain hair and the appearance can vary from full to a more loose and baggy appearance.
Labia minora – these are the inner lips which are made up of 2 folds of tissue that extend backwards on each side the of the vaginal opening (introitus). The labia minora can vary in the degree of pigmentation and are typically hairless
Clitoris – the clitoris is oval shaped and is an erectile mass of tissue located beneath the urethral opening and is connected to the mons pubis. It contains many sensory nerve endings.
There is considerable variation in appearance of the female genitalia. However most women who request a labiaplasty procedure typically have a very specific shape in which the labia minora or labia majora are overly prominent, whether in the front, middle or back part. It is not uncommon for there to be considerable asymmetry between left and right labia minora and this can also be corrected with a labiaplasty procedure.
To gain a better appreciation of the different labiaplasty techniques, knowledge of the anatomy of the external genitalia is helpful.
Asymmetries can also exist in other areas such as the clitoral hood, thickness of labia minora or pigmentation.
Labiaplasty focuses on reducing, reshaping and contouring the labia minora and/or labia majora so you will no longer feel any physical discomfort. A clitoral hood reduction can also be performed if symptoms are experienced from too much tissue or asymmetry in this area to effectively balance the appearance.
The labiaplasty consultation
At your consultation with Dr Dimitriadi, you will undergo a full medical assessment. Dr Dimitriadi will take a medical history and perform a thorough physical examination. The vaginal rejuvenation technique will be fully explained. You will have an opportunity to express any concerns and have your questions answered about the procedure. A customised treatment will then be prepared for you.
If you wish, Dr Dimitriadi may be able to show you a selection of before and after photographs of previous patients to show what can be achieved with labia reduction surgery.
Ideal candidates for labiaplasty
Women who are experiencing any pain and discomfort from their labia are suitable candidates for a labiaplasty. Pain can arise from clothing, exercises or tugging during sexual activity. In some instances, the labia may be enlarged, or one may be larger than the other.
How to prepare for cosmetic surgery
Dr Dimitriadi does not offer this procedure to women who are below 18 years old, as your labia will still be undergoing growth and development.
Wound healing is improved if you are a non-smoker.
The effects of smoking on healing after surgery
Labiaplasty Expected Results
- Surgical removal of redundant labial tissue on one or both sides to create a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing look to the labia minora and labia majora
- Reduction in discomfort when wearing tight fitting clothing or when undertaking sporting activities
- Labiaplasty may improve sexual function through alleviation of discomfort during sexual intercourse – a commonly reported reason for having labiaplasty at Centre for Surgery
Labiaplasty procedure preparation
Patients who smoke will be advised to stop for at least 2 weeks before the date of their labiaplasty procedure. Smoking has detrimental effects on the microcirculation and is known to slow the wound healing process. All medications, prescribed and over the counter will be reviewed. Aspirin and aspirin containing medicines should be stopped both before and after surgery. Aspirin and NSAIDS impair the body’s natural clotting process and may cause bleeding complications after surgery. If you require pain relief after surgery, paracetamol is advised.
Whether your procedure is performed under a local or general anaesthetic, it is mandatory to have a responsible adult escort take you home in a car or taxi. You must not travel home on public transport after labiaplasty surgery.
Labiaplasty procedure
Labiaplasty is highly specialised surgery and requires tremendous attention to detail. If you choose to have the procedure under a local anaesthetic, you will also have option of oral sedation which may make you feel sleepy and hence feel more relaxed before the injection of local anaesthetic by Dr Dimitriadi. For some cases, Dr Dimitriadi may recommend a general anaesthetic and you will then be asleep throughout the procedure. With both techniques, you should not feel any pain or discomfort during the procedure as the area is injected with local anaesthetic prior to the procedure starting. The procedure takes approximately one to two hours to perform and is an outpatient procedure meaning you are admitted and discharged the same day, allowing you to recovery in the comfort of your own home.
The decision to have local or general anaesthesia is always your choice, although Dr Dimitriadi may recommend a general anaesthetic in complex or revision cases.
Dr Dimitriadi will discuss with you the desired length of the labia minora to be removed and the area will then be marked with your assistance using a hand mirror prior to the procedure. Additionally, it is important to discuss whether clitoral hood reduction is required. When deciding on the degree of tissue to be excised, the area is marked conservatively to prevent over-reduction. Dr Dimitriadi believes it is always better to slightly undercorrect to avoid the risk of overcorrection which is very difficult to successfully treat.
The labiaplasty procedure involves reshaping the labia minora using precise dissection techniques. Any unwanted tissue is accurately removed. There are a number of surgical methods available for labiaplasty surgery. Your surgeon will discuss with you the most appropriate technique applicable to you.
Different labiaplasty techniques
- Wedge technique
- Trim technique
An advantage of the wedge excision technique is an improvement of the smoothness of the labial border although there may be slight colour changes once the trimmed edges are sutured together and there is a higher risk of wound breakdown with the wedge method of labiaplasty.
The trim technique is a suitable method for those with larger labia or with significant degrees of asymmetry The technique creates a straighter appearance along the labial edge and removes the existing labial border. Dr Dimitriadi prefers the trim method as problems which can occur following wedge excision techniques, including wound breakdown leading to possible fistula formation, do not occur following the trim excision technique. Dr Dimitriadi takes great care to perform a conservative excision as over-reduction is a difficult problem to correct.
For mild to moderate labial tissue resection, the de-epithelialisation technique may be an appropriate option. The technique reduces the length of the labia whilst also preserving the labial border. This can create a more aesthetically pleasing appearance in addition to correction of the functional symptoms which many women experience. The downside is that it is only applicable for very small degrees of labia minora enlargement.
Once the desired level of correction has been achieved to achieve a youthful appearance, Dr Dimitriadi uses absorbable sutures to ensure correct healing. With her extensive experience as a gynaecologist in a London teaching hospital, Dr Dimitriadi is familiar with the diverse range of labia minora and majora appearances and no one technique can be used in a blanket fashion for every patient. The key is a thorough evaluation in a private consultation to develop a customised treatment plan based on a patient’s main concerns. Dr Dimitriadi prefers the labial trim method as it carries the least amount of potential risks and complications and consistently excellent outcomes.
What is the best labiaplasty technique?
Dr Dimitriadi will discuss with you the most appropriate labiaplasty technique based on her extensive experience in labiaplasty surgery.
Radiofrequency (RF) procedures – Votiva and FemTite
Votiva RF – non-invasive
For a more comprehensive treatment, you may wish to combine a labiaplasty with Votiva RF. This is a non-surgical procedure which uses a specialised bipolar RF handpiece. These handpieces emit RF energy and stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, which works to improve the tone and texture of the skin as well as the appearance of the labia and tighten the vagina.
FemTite RF – minimally invasive
For a smaller number of appropriately selected patients, Centre for Surgery also offer a minimally invasive alternative to a surgical labiaplasty called FemTite RF. FemTite achieves tissue contraction through the controlled delivery of radiofrequency (RF) energy to the labia minora and/or the labia majora.
Labiaplasty recovery process
After the procedure, you may experience some pain and discomfort in the genital area. Bruising and swelling are common side effects. This may last for several weeks. You can use ice packs to reduce any swelling or take pain medication to help alleviate discomfort.
You will be advised that you should wear a pad – not tampons – for one week or until any bleeding stops. It is also recommended to wear loose cotton underwear during this time. You may find that during recovery after surgery, passing water may be slightly uncomfortable although this is temporary in nature.
What to eat to speed up recovery after surgery
How to speed up recovery after cosmetic surgery
You may need to take about 3-5 days off work, and you will have to avoid any heavy exercise for 10 days. You will be able to resume your normal sexual activity about six weeks later. It is important to keep the genital area clean during the recovery period in order to reduce the risk of infection occurring. An antibiotic ointment should be applied to the area twice daily after your procedure.
Risks and potential complications of labiaplasty surgery
Dr Dimitriadi has many years of experience in performing aesthetic gynaecological procedures including labiaplasty. She regularly attends conferences overseas to learn about the best and most safest ways of performing aesthetic gynaecology procedures. The labiaplasty surgery performed today is very different to that performed even 20 years ago which is why it is so important for Dr Dimitriadi to keep abreast of changes in the field. Despite everything being done to make sure procedures run smoothly, there is always a small chance of complications occurring. Patients should always start by making sure they choose a skilled surgeon such as Dr Dimitriadi to ensure they get the results which fit with their treatment goals. It is also very important to comply with all the postoperative aftercare instructions and restrictions on activity which are vital to ensure speedy healing. During your consultation with Dr Dimitriadi, the potential risks and complications that can occur with labiaplasty will be discussed.
Risks of labiaplasty surgery:
- Anaesthetic risks
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Scarring
- Nerve damage or loss of sensation in the operated area
- Painful intercourse
- Dryness of the vaginal area
- Requirement for a revision procedure
Labiaplasty cost
There are a number of factors which will determine the overall cost of your labiaplasty procedure and the final quotation will be given after your face to face consultation with Dr Dimitriadi.
- Labia minora reduction alone or combined labia minora reduction + labia majora reduction
- Anaesthesia cost – local anaesthetic or general anaesthetic
- Any previous surgery to the area
What is included in my labiaplasty treatment package?
- As many preoperative consultations with your surgeon as you like to make sure the procedure is right for you
- Treatment at a specialist day surgery facility recently rated ‘Good’ by the CQC
- Enhanced same day discharge with the added benefits of recovering in your own home
- 24/7 clinical support from your surgeon for first 48 hours and our expert postoperative support team
- Your very own dedicated patient coordinator
- In-depth preoperative medical assessment to make sure you are fully fit for your procedure
- Exceptionally high standards of postoperative care described as ‘outstanding’ by the CQC with regular telephone and face to face checks
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Spread the cost of your labiaplasty procedure
Centre for Surgery are fully approved to offer finance for labiaplasty via our specialist finance partner, Chrysalis Finance.
You no longer need to use your savings to pay for your treatment – you can apply to spread the cost of your procedure with Chrysalis Finance using their simple 1,2,3 application to pay for your procedure.
Don’t wait until you have enough money for your treatment, apply today and (subject to status) pay for your procedure easily in monthly instalments, using one of their payment options.
Chrysalis Finance is the only ethical provider who focus solely in the provision of specialist financing for medical procedures. Speak to one of our patient coordinators today to learn more about finance for your labiaplasty procedure.
Fotona SMOOTH® laser treatment
Centre for Surgery are one of the few providers in the UK to specialise in non-surgical laser treatments for gynaecological concerns. Fotona SMOOTH® laser treatments offer gentle solutions to vaginal problems such as involuntary leakage during coughing and sports activities, loss of vaginal firmness and vaginal dryness and irritation. They are based on a specially engineered, patented laser mode using the award winning SP Dynamis laser that works by delivering gentle heat pulses to the vagina, strengthening and improving the tissue quality through the production of new collagen and elastin.
IntimaLase – vaginal tightening treatment
IncontiLase – stress urinary incontinence treatment
ProlapLase – pelvic organ prolapse treatment
RenovaLase – treatment for genitourinary syndrome of menopause / vaginal atrophy
Fotona SMOOTH® treatments are non-invasive, gentle, painless and quick ambulatory procedures that can also help patients that suffer from more than one type of problem.
FAQs
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What are labia?The labia are the soft tissue structures that sit on either side of the vaginal opening. The labia form part of the vulva which is the term used to describe the external genital structures. There are two types of labia, the labia minora which are the inner lips and the Labia majora which are the outer lips. The labia have a wide range of appearances across women and can differ both in size and shape. The procedure of labiaplasty is able to address the labia minora and labia majora to change their size and level of symmetry. The most common procedure is labia minora reduction. Labial reduction surgery is commonly performed for the reduction of large labia minora where their appearance can be a common cause of distress for many women. The large labia can be effectively reshaped to give a smaller size whether through aa trim or wedge technique as part of a labial reduction procedure.
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Should I get a labiaplasty?There are several candidates who are appropriate for a labiaplasty. Some women have an enlarged labia minora, which can cause painful inflammation, chaffing, pain during intercourse or while inserting tampons. Women may often have one labia that is larger than the other, with surgery being a good option in this instance.
Having your labiaplasty in London gives you access to specialist surgeons who perform this surgery on a regular basis and are therefore experienced to manage all aspects of your care. -
Who shouldn’t get a labiaplasty?At Centre for Surgery, no surgery is offered to anyone below the age of 18. At this age, your labia will still be growing and developing, and will continue to do so until early adulthood. In practice, it is uncommon for anyone under the age of 21 to be accepted for this procedure.
Our surgeons will perform surgery on those with associated functional symptoms such as pain, or excessive chaffing in addition to aesthetic considerations.
Surgery purely for aesthetic enhancement is not recommended. -
Can I have a labiaplasty if I haven't had children yet?It is possible to have a labiaplasty before having children. You may have a large labia which you dislike the aesthetic appearance of. The large labia may also cause physical or psychological pain.
If you have not had children and are below 18 years old you will be unsuitable for surgery. -
What type of anaesthetic will be used?This will vary depending on what you feel comfortable with.
A labiaplasty can be performed with either a local anaesthetic, where you are awake but cannot feel where incisions will be made or under a general anaesthetic. At Centre for Surgery, our general anaesthetic is known as ClearSleep™. -
What are the risks involved?As labiaplasty is a surgical procedure, possible risks include bleeding, infection, scarring and reduced sensitivity. It is important patients understand the procedure and the outcomes they will receive prior to the surgery. Some patients desire an aggressive reduction, which can have side effects such as chronic dryness, discomfort and pain during intercourse. You can discuss with your surgeon the best ways to avoid any complications occurring after the procedure has been completed.
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How long does a labiaplasty take?While a labiaplasty is a fairly complex surgery, it usually takes 1-2 hours depending on the amount of tissue to be removed. Actual time frames vary from each patient and depending on what needs to be done, but the procedure is a day surgery, with a few hours required afterwards for recovery. Patients will be able to return home the same day.
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Can I combine a labiaplasty with other procedures?It is common for a labiaplasty to be combined with other surgical procedures. You may wish to have a labiaplasty as part of a mummy makeover, or have it with a vaginoplasty, liposuction or a tummy tuck.
During your consultation, your surgeon will be able to assess your body and consider whether or not you can combine surgeries and if you are an eligible candidate for the other procedures. -
Will I have a scar after a labiaplasty?Every procedure which involves an incision will result in a scar. However, our surgeons will take care to ensure that scarring is as minimally noticeable as possible.
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How long will I need to take off work?You will need to take at least five days off work in order to recover.
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When can I start exercising again?You should avoid any strenuous physical activities for at least 10 days.
This includes lifting heavy objects, dancing, swimming, yoga and other gym activities. -
When can I start sexual activities again?You will need to avoid any sexual activities for at least six weeks.
What To Expect
The consultation
Your patient coordinator will book an appointment for you to meet with one of our specialist surgeons for labiaplasty. Your surgeon will discuss with you all aspects of the procedure and will you will be able to discuss your goals for treatment. The surgeon will be able to explain the benefits of the procedure as well as any procedure limitations in terms of achieving a particular result. The surgeon will undertake a full physical examination to assess labia region in detail. A treatment plan will be formulated after taking into the size and shape of your labia, and if you were experiencing functional symptoms such as discomfort. Your surgeon will also discuss with you all the potential risks, complications and possible side effects and what to expect during the recovery and healing phase. Any history of previous medical conditions will be noted and this includes previous medical procedures, medicines you are taking and any allergies you may have. This information will be used to determine your fitness for the labiaplasty procedure. If your surgeons decides you are an appropriate candidate for the procedure, then you have the choice of moving ahead with procedure after a nationally recommended two week 'cool-off' period. You should use this time to explore at your own pace, all the possible treatment options including the option of no further treatment. We can arrange for you to see you surgeon for as many follow-up consultations as you like to make sure you are able to make a fully informed decision on potential surgery. We offer a chaperone service for all examinations involving assessment of an intimate area. If you prefer, you may wish to bring a family member or friend to your consultation.
Before your procedure
After considering the treatment options and you have decided to have a procedure, you will be thoroughly prepared for your day of your procedure. Our surgeons recommend for those that smoke, the stopping of smoking for at least 4 weeks prior as studies have shown a higher risk of abnormalities with wound healing including delayed wound healing and breakdown and surgical site infection. At one week before your procedure, you should stop all medicines containing aspirin as these interfere with blood clotting. You should also follow the preoperative fasting guidelines of no food for 6 hours prior and water only can be drunk up to 2 hours prior to the procedure.
The day of your procedure
Our team request that you arrive approximately one hour prior to your procedure start time. Our nursing team will formally admit you first and perform a series a confimatory checks. Your vital signs will be measured including your blood pressure and you will then meet with your anaesthetist who will perform a final check of your fitness for surgery by assessing your medical notes and performing a physical examination. Finally you will meet with your surgeon who will perform preoperative marking of the areas to be treated and you will be asked to sign your consent which your surgeon will countersign also once you are fully happy with the proposed treatment plan. The surgical procedure takes approximately 1-2 hours and is performed under TIVA general anaesthesia or local anaesthesia. The labia are first injected with local anaesthetic before the surgeon then surgically reshapes the labia to the desired end result. 2 commonly used labia reduction techniques include the trim excision technique or the wedge excision technique. The labia edges are closed with dissolvable sutures. After the procedure is finished, you will be allowed to recover from the effects of the anaesthetic. Our nursing team will carefully assess your fitness for discharge and once you are safe to discharged, you will need to have a responsible adult to accompany you home and to look after you for the first 24 hours after your procedure.
After your procedure
Once you are safely at home, you can be assured in having access to our specialist postoperative team round the clock. You will be given a contact number to contact your surgeon in the first 24 hours after surgery if there is any concern. Our postoperative team will look to call everyday for the first 2 weeks after your procedure. This is so we can monitor your levels of comfort and can alert your surgeon if there is any concern. Our proactive approach allows the detection of any potential issues early which results in more effective treatment. You are advised to rest for at least a few days after your procedure which will also help with pain control. Heavy exercise should be avoided for at least the first 4 weeks. Sexual intercourse should avoided for a full 6 weeks. Our postoperative clinical team will assess you face to face at your 1 week postoperative appointment to ensure healing is progressing normally and the wounds site are healthy. You will be booked for your surgeon follow-up appointment for 6 weeks after your procedure.