Can you get labiaplasty surgery on the nhs

This is because there is a lack of research and clinical evidence to show how effective this procedure is. This means there is no guarantee it will achieve a long-lasting desired effect, and there are short and long term risks to consider.

Therefore, except where the criteria is met, surgery to reduce the size of the vaginal skin flaps labia is deemed to be a cosmetic procedure. But Pacquita De Zulueta, a GP for 30 years, says some girls know they need to overstate their physical symptoms to get the surgery and blames the rise on unrealistic images girls are being exposed to through pornography and social media.

ES Money. The Escapist. The Reveller. The Optimist. ES Best. ES Mag. If you are becoming increasingly unhappy with the appearance of your labia, or if it is causing you daily discomfort or pain, then it might be time to discuss the issue with your GP or gynaecologist. While undergoing labial reconstructive surgery is not a decision to be taken lightly, the procedure can be life-changing for many women, helping them to live happier lives.

Most patients who undergo surgery no longer experience the irritation and pain they had previously, as well as feeling more satisfied with the appearance of their genitalia afterwards. A labiaplasty should not be carried out on girls under the age of 18, as the labia often continues to develop after puberty and into young adulthood. Labiaplasty is not to be confused with vaginoplasty , which is the procedure carried out to tighten the vagina.

Some women choose to undergo both procedures together, particularly following a traumatic childbirth. See A Consultant. Labial Reconstruction Explained. Do I Need a Labiaplasty? What is Labiaplasty? The loose edge may be stitched with fine, dissolvable stitches. You may need up to 2 weeks off work to recover. It can take a couple of months for the skin to fully heal.

During this time, peeing and sitting may also be uncomfortable. You'll be given painkillers to help with this. Your surgeon should explain how likely these risks and complications are, and how they would be treated if you have them. Speak to the surgeon at the hospital or clinic where you were treated if you experience complications after having a labiaplasty, or you're unhappy with the results.

You can contact the CQC if you have any concerns about your care. If necessary, you can make a complaint about a doctor to the GMC. The Royal College of Surgeons also have more information and advice about what to do if things go wrong.

BAAPS: aesthetic genital surgery. Page last reviewed: 19 September Next review due: 19 September Labiaplasty vulval surgery.