Labial Trimming

Many women feel discomfort or embarrassment if the labia minora (the inner lips of the vulva) are enlarged. This can often be embarrassing and can affect quality of life by causing worry about what clothes to wear and can also affect intimate relationships. Sometimes the fear of negative comments can severely affect the confidence of women and can even put them off starting a relationship. Surgical correction of this is a very straightforward procedure and the impact it can have on a woman's confidence can be profound.

What does labial trimming involve?

The procedure takes place in the treatment room of The Surrey Park Clinic. After changing, you will be given local anaesthetic firstly in gel form. The area to be removed is then more effectively numbed before the surgery is done to ensure complete comfort.

The procedure takes around 30-40 minutes after which you will be taken to recover in the rest room. Later on, you will be advised to go home and lie down, and to take adequate pain relief. There will be several very tiny dissolving sutures although they can sometimes be removed if they feel a little tight or uncomfortable. You should have somebody to take you home as you may not be safe to drive.

Are there any risks?

Fortunately the risks with this sort of surgery are very small but as with any surgery, there may be discomfort initially and bleeding and infection must always be considered.

What happens after surgery?

After surgery you will be advised to take things gently for a couple of weeks and gradually the pain will settle. Some women may experience some mild discomfort and swelling which usually disappears after 1 to 2 weeks. You will be advised to keep the area clean and dry and in particular take adequate pain relief. It is recommended that strenuous exercise should be avoided for 2 weeks and vaginal intercourse avoided for 4 weeks. Any worries should be reported to the clinic.

When can I go back to work?

Most women find that unless their work involves arduous physical activity they can go back to work after 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the type of work

For more information please visit The Surrey Park Clinic Labial Trimming Website .