Short answer
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that reduces or reshapes the inner labia (labia minora) to relieve discomfort or change their appearance. It usually takes 1-2 hours under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia, and most patients go home the same day. Most women stay in Istanbul for 5-7 days and return to desk work within a week.
What is labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is a procedure that reduces the size or changes the shape of the labia minora, the inner folds of skin around the vaginal opening. In some cases the hood of skin above the clitoris is also refined so the result looks balanced.
The variety in labial size and shape is wide and entirely normal. Women usually ask about labiaplasty because of physical discomfort, irritation or self-consciousness, not because anything is medically wrong.
Who is it for?
Labiaplasty suits adult women in good general health who have a persistent concern that affects daily comfort or confidence. Your surgeon discusses your goals with you privately and assesses suitability in person before anything is planned.
- Rubbing or irritation during exercise, cycling or walking
- Discomfort with tight clothing or swimwear
- Asymmetry, including after childbirth
- Self-consciousness that affects intimacy or wellbeing
How the procedure is done
The surgeon removes a measured amount of excess tissue, using either an edge (trim) technique or a wedge technique, and closes the area with fine dissolvable stitches. The choice depends on your anatomy and the result you want, and it is agreed with you beforehand.
Your consultation, examination and procedure take place in private rooms with a small, consistent team. Your hotel, VIP transfers and a medical interpreter are arranged before you land, and a personal coordinator stays with you discreetly throughout.
Recovery and results
Swelling and tenderness are normal for the first one to two weeks and are usually well controlled with simple pain relief and cool compresses. Loose cotton underwear and gentle hygiene help healing.
Most women return to desk work within a week. Exercise, cycling and swimming are usually avoided for 4-6 weeks, and tampons and intercourse for about 6 weeks. The final shape settles over 3-6 months as residual swelling resolves. Metropolmed's own medical team performs the treatment in Istanbul, and 12 months of follow-up are included.
Your private consultation
Your consultation is private, unhurried and led by your surgeon. Before you travel, you can share your concerns and medical history in writing through your coordinator, so the first conversation in Istanbul builds on what you have already said. Please mention any previous gynaecological surgery, pregnancies, bleeding problems and medicines you take. Plan your trip so that it does not coincide with your period, and bring loose cotton underwear and comfortable clothing for the journey home.
Consultations take place one to one in a private room, with a medical interpreter if you need one, and you can ask for a male or female interpreter and coordinator. Your records, photographs and test results are kept strictly confidential and shared only with the clinicians treating you. Metropolmed holds the Turkish Ministry of Health international patient authorisation (USHAŞ AK-0164), and its own TÜRSAB-licensed travel division (licence 13032) books your hotel.
Risks and safety
Labiaplasty is generally a safe procedure, but like any surgery it carries risks. These include bleeding or a collection of blood (haematoma), infection, wound separation, temporary or lasting changes in sensation, visible scarring, asymmetry and, rarely, removal of more tissue than intended. A small number of patients need a minor revision.
Smoking increases the risk of poor wound healing, so stopping well before surgery is strongly advised. A doctor assesses your suitability in person and explains the risks that apply to you before you consent.
Recovery timeline
- Day 1Procedure and rest; most patients return to the hotel the same day
- Week 1Swelling at its peak then easing; check-up before you fly home
- Week 2-3Stitches dissolve; most daily activities resume
- Week 6Exercise, tampons and intercourse usually possible
- Month 3-6Final shape and softness settle
Frequently asked questions
Will the scar be visible?
Usually not. The incision follows the natural edge or fold of the labia and fades to a fine line that is very hard to see once healed.
Does labiaplasty affect sensation?
Most women notice no lasting change in sensation. Temporary numbness or sensitivity can occur while healing, and permanent changes are uncommon.
Can I have labiaplasty after having children?
Yes. Many women have it after childbirth, but if you plan another vaginal delivery your surgeon may suggest waiting, as birth can change the result.
Is my consultation confidential?
Yes. Consultations take place one to one in a private room, and your records and photographs are kept strictly confidential.
When can I fly home?
Most women fly home 5-7 days after the procedure, once the surgeon has checked healing.
