The female genitals are protected by two skin folds called labia majora and two mucous folds called labia minora. Usually, the labia minora are concealed by the labia majora. Some women have hypertrophy labia minora. This can cause discomfort during sexual intercourse or when wearing tight pants. The appearance is often considered unsightly by people with this anomaly. The aim of this intervention is to restore a harmonious appearance of the genitals with the labia minora flush with the labia majora.
The intervention
The intervention consists in resecting the excess mucous membrane of the labia minora beyond the labia majora (Figure 1). Sutures are made at the free edge with absorbable stitches. The anesthesia used is usually local combined with intravenous sedation. The operation is most of the time performed on an outpatient basis, with a discharge the same day.
The initial consultation
The initial consultation is an opportunity to examine the hypertrophy, discuss the discomfort caused and explain the expected results. It allows you to look for antecedents that may require caution, such as genital herpes.
Complications
Any surgery, even minor, carries risks. These complications are extremely rare and usually minor in this situation. The risk of a reaction to anesthesia cannot be eliminated. The complication sometimes found is infection or hematoma.
The nymphoplasty causes scarring. The evolution of these scars is unpredictable and can be exceptionally unfavorable with the occurrence of hypertrophic or retractile scars. These scarring complications can cause discomfort and require further surgery.
Before surgery
It is imperative to stop smoking at least one month before the surgery, tobacco being a factor in delaying healing. The intake of aspirin is prohibited 10 days before the operation. It is necessary to wash with a gynecological antiseptic soap before surgery.
On the day of the operation, sufficient time should be allowed to arrive on time, without undue stress. It is important to plan a person who can take you home after hospitalization.
Operative suites
The surgical aftermath is generally not very painful. Edema may appear and generally takes between 3 and 5 days to resolve. Sexual abstinence is imperative for 3 weeks. The result stabilizes around the 4th month. It is on this date that we can evaluate the final result.
Important information
This text provides basic information on the principles and procedure of labia minora reduction surgery. A good understanding of the procedure and the expected result is essential before considering this intervention. It must be emphasized that the goal of this surgery is to make an improvement and not to obtain perfection. If your wishes are realistic, the result will satisfy you.