Labiaplasty

The most popular labia reduction technique, the trim method is exactly as it sounds. Also known as edge excision, linear, and amputation labiaplasty, the trim is the most commonly used technique in labia reduction. The trim can effectively address the common issues of excess length, asymmetry and hyperpigmentation.

The trim reduces the size of the labia minora, effectively trimming bulging or protruding labia, leaving behind smooth, unscalloped and wrinkle-free edges. This method of labiaplasty is best for patients who dislike the thick, darkly pigmented, or rough edges on their labia. For many women, the desire to see this edge removed is one of the main reasons for seeking cosmetic surgery for the labia.  Once the labia minora has healed from a trim, it will look less prominent and sit neatly inside the outer labia (labia majora).

A trim can also be performed alongside other common labiaplasty procedures, such as surgery to reduce the labia majora and reducing the clitoral hood by trimming away excess skin. 

However there is one common problem with trim labiaplasty. If the surgeon does not take sufficient care while carrying out the procedure, it can result in an uneven transition at the clitoral bulb at the centre, where the two sides of the labia meet. Rest assured that all the labiaplasty surgeons operating here at the Cadogan Clinic are experts in their field, which makes this less likely to occur.

Another downside of using the trim method is that the resulting scar runs the entire length of the labia minora, although this will be less visible over time.

The wedge method, also known as a central v wedge, is slightly more complex than the trim. Although this labiaplasty technique serves a similar purpose, that is reducing the size of the labia, the results are slightly different. Where the trim method focuses more on cosmetic concerns, such as excess length and hyperpigmentation, the wedge is more concerned with tightening the labia, leaving minimal scarring behind.

In this particular method, the surgeon cuts a v-shaped section of tissue away from the centre of the labia. This is the ‘wedge’. The two cut edges are then stitched together, thus tightening the whole labia, which is not a benefit associated with the trim method.

The wedge method is good for addressing the common problem of asymmetry and excess length in the central third of the labia. Unlike the trim method, the wedge technique does not alter the labia’s natural contours, maintaining the labia minora’s natural wrinkled edge. The wedge is a great option for women who have thin and well-defined labia edges and are not bothered by the appearance of these edges. There is less scar sensitivity when using the wedge method and the scar is hidden in the body’s natural crease.

Unlike the trim method, the wedge avoids any potential unevenness where the two sides of the labia join. However it does leave the darkest parts of the labia minora intact, so the wedge is not the technique of choice if the goal is to remove darkly pigmented edges.

A third technique which may be used as part of a labiaplasty procedure involves cutting the surface tissue of the labia minora and is known as de-epithelialization.

In this method, the surgeon makes an oval-shaped superficial incision in the inner parts of the labia, using a scalpel or a laser beam. The outer epithelial layer is then removed from the labia while the subcutaneous tissue, that is the deepest layer of skin made up mostly of fat cells and connective tissue, is left largely intact. The two edges are then sutured back together.

Since it was introduced in 2000, de-epithelialization has become a popular method of labia reduction. This technique maintains the wrinkles and sensations of the labia area and there are fewer complications associated with this particular method of labia reduction. 

The only potential downside of using this particular labiaplasty technique is that the base of the labia may become thicker after the procedure. This may be due to there being a vertical fold in the subcutaneous tissue, when the two edges of the skin were sutured back together.

Sometimes the de-epithelialization method can be combined with the wedge technique for an enhanced result. Your consultant will discuss which of these techniques will be best suited to help you reach your goals.