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The decision to undertake a labiaplasty procedure is a big step forward for women who are looking to restore their self-confidence and sense of emotional well-being. Labiaplasty surgery is one of the most commonly sought-after procedures in London because it has the ability to produce a significant improvement in the overall cosmetic appearance of the labia. Labia reduction can also address functional problems, including pain and discomfort from intercourse or physical activities such as running or cycling.
Labiaplasty surgery is customised to the needs and preferences of the individual patient. Our surgeons take time to listen to the needs and concerns of their patients to make sure the most appropriate labiaplasty technique is chosen to achieve the best labiaplasty results.
The two main types of labiaplasty include the trim technique and the wedge technique. Here we will discuss the pros and cons below.
Trim labiaplasty
Trim labiaplasty is the most commonly performed type of labiaplasty surgery in the UK and can correct a wide range of cosmetic issues affecting both the labia minora and labia majora. The trim technique has undergone several refinements over the last 10 years and is a straightforward procedure. The procedure involves the surgeon making a linear incision along the outer margin of the labia for a permanent reduction in the size of the labia minora. Excess labial tissue is precisely removed, leaving smaller labia that are in better balance with the labia majora. Healing after trim labiaplasty is quick and results in labia minora that are able to sit inside the natural folds of the labia majora.
Trim labiaplasty has the benefit of achieving a significant reduction in both the overall size and length of the labia. Excessively long labour can be effectively reduced with a trim technique to improve cosmetic appearance and relieve pain and discomfort. Many women often have areas of hyperpigmentation affecting the labial border, and the trim method can permanently remove deeply pigmented labia, which is not uncommon in many women. Trim labiaplasty can result in a more youthful pink colour on the edge of the labia. This is often preferred by most women who seek a trim labiaplasty.
The trim technique involves an incision along the labial border but does not extend as far as the clitoral hood. Clitoral hood reduction is a separate surgical technique that can be combined with labia reduction. The trim technique requires the surgeon to be very mindful of the sensitive tissue near the clitoris. Achieving excellent results with the trim labiaplasty method involves balancing the reduction of both excess labial tissue and redundant clitoral folds. Performing labiaplasty on its own may result in an excessively prominent clitoral hood.
Wedge labiaplasty
Wedge labiaplasty is a more complex technique for labia reduction with the same intended benefits as the trim technique. Results achieved after a wedge labiaplasty differ slightly from the trim method. This procedure involves removing a wedge-shaped piece of tissue from the central part of the labia. The shape of the incision is most commonly V-shaped, resulting in a triangular configuration with two incised edges. The surgeon will then stitch the two edges together for a reduction in the size of the labia. Labiaplasty is useful for treating labia asymmetry between the two sides and reducing the overall length in the central part of the labia. The procedure can also be effective in achieving a better balance in the size of the labia about the clitoral hood without performing a clitoral hood reduction. The wedge technique cannot get rid of excess pigmentation of the labia border, unlike the trim technique. The wedge technique preserves the labial border, resulting in pigmented labial edges remaining. Patients may need to consider having the trim technique if they are particularly concerned about the appearance of their deeply pigmented labia.
Which type of labiaplasty technique is right for me?
The most appropriate surgical method will depend on your goals for treatment and whether you have any functional symptoms from large labia. The trim technique is ideal for women who are concerned about the cosmetic appearance of the labia. In some cases, the wedge technique may be better for women concerned about the potential appearance of visible scarring and who would like to achieve natural tightening. The best way to determine the most appropriate technique is to have a face-to-face consultation at our state-of-the-art cosmetic surgery clinic in central London.
SEE ALSO: How to choose the best labiaplasty surgeon?
Labiaplasty at Centre for Surgery
Contact us today on 020 7993 4849 to schedule an in-depth consultation at our Baker Street clinic. We are a specialist gynaecology centre, and our doctors are experienced in all types of labioplasty techniques. We will work closely with you to determine the most appropriate treatment for your needs and preferences.
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