HLG Dr Hélène Le GallPlastic surgeon · Toulouse

    Nymphoplasty (labia minora reduction)

    At a glance

    Anaesthesia
    Local or general
    Procedure
    30 min to 1 hour
    Stay
    Outpatient
    Recovery
    A few days
    Final result
    A few months

    Nymphoplasty is the surgical reduction of the labia minora (also called nymphae). It is intended for people who are bothered by labia minora that they consider too long, too thick or asymmetrical. The discomfort can be functional: rubbing in clothes, discomfort during sport or sexual intercourse. It can also be aesthetic.

    How the procedure unfolds

    Before

    In practice

    • In consultation, I analyse your request and the discomfort you feel.
    • I perform a simple examination of the labia minora and labia majora.
    • I collect information about your state of health (see “the first consultation for surgery”).
    • We take photographs for your medical record.
    • I give you all the information about the surgery and give you an estimate.

    A second consultation is compulsory before any procedure. It allows a period of reflection and answers your questions.

    You must stop smoking at least one month before the operation. You meet the anaesthetist before the operation. The operation is preferably scheduled outside your menstrual period.

    During

    Surgery

    Nymphoplasty is performed under local, deep local or general anaesthesia, depending on your wishes and the extent of the procedure. It takes place at the Clinique Pasteur in Toulouse, on an outpatient basis.

    The principle is to remove the excess mucosa of the labia minora. Several techniques exist: resection of the free edge or triangular resection. We choose together the technique suited to your anatomy.

    The stitches are absorbable. The scars are located in the natural folds. They generally become barely visible.

    The operation generally lasts thirty minutes to one hour.

    After

    Postoperative effects

    Pain is most often moderate. It is relieved by simple painkillers.

    Swelling of the labia minora is usual during the first days. Bruises and slight bleeding are possible.

    • Washing is done with water and mild soap, followed by careful drying.
    • Cotton underwear and loose clothing are recommended.
    • A few days off work may be necessary.
    • The stitches generally fall out on their own within two to three weeks.
    • Sport and sexual intercourse are resumed after about one month, once healing is complete.

    The result is assessed after a few months, once the swelling has gone down. I see you again for a follow-up consultation.

    What to do to optimize the result?

    • Keep simple intimate hygiene, without harsh products.
    • Dry the area carefully after each wash.
    • Avoid rubbing: cycling, sport, tight clothing, during healing.
    • Avoid baths and swimming pools until healing is complete.
    • Stop smoking: tobacco slows down healing.
    • Drink enough water.

    Social security coverage

    Nymphoplasty is not covered by social security for aesthetic purposes. In certain cases of functional discomfort, it may be covered after a request for prior approval. We discuss this in consultation.

    Pricing

    From 900 euros, on estimate given at the end of the consultation.

    The SOFCPRE information sheet for your procedure is given to you during the consultation.

    My advice

    • Hydrate yourself and your skin

      Drink enough water and unsweetened drinks regularly. Apply a moisturizer to the skin once or twice a day after cleansing.

    • Protect yourself from the sun

      Avoid prolonged direct exposure, cover up and regularly apply total sunscreen protection (UVA / UVB) factor 50 to exposed areas.

    • You should not smoke

      or you should stop smoking as soon as possible. If needed, ask for help to your doctor or a tobacco addiction specialist, there are many methods available to help you in this difficult process.