Wait before you decide
For weeks after a labiaplasty the area is swollen, often unevenly. Most surgeons won't plan a revision until the tissue has settled, which takes at least a few months. Go back to the surgeon who operated first, and ask whether a touch-up is included in what you paid.
What can usually be improved
- Too little removed, or one side longer than the other
- A small notch or gap along the edge where a wound separated
- Extra skin of the clitoral hood that looks larger once the lips are smaller
- A tight or uncomfortable scar
Too much removed
When too much of the inner lips was removed, the opening of the vagina can feel exposed, dry or sore, and sex can hurt. Tissue that's gone can't simply be put back. Some surgeons rebuild the lips using nearby tissue, which is specialist reconstructive work. Ask how many they've done and what results are realistic.
Who to see
Every doctor practising in Ireland must be registered with the Medical Council, and only a doctor with specialist registration can practise independently as a specialist. For labiaplasty, look for a surgeon on the Specialist Division in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, or a gynaecologist on the Specialist Division in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, using the Medical Council's online register. For a revision, ask specifically about reconstructive experience, and ask to see results of revisions, not first operations.
Cost
A revision is priced only after the surgeon has examined you, because each one is different. For comparison, a first labiaplasty in Ireland costs €3,000 to €7,000. If you're going back to your original surgeon, ask what's included in your first price.
Questions people ask
How soon can I have a labiaplasty revision?
Usually after at least a few months, once the swelling has settled.
Can a botched labiaplasty be fixed?
Often it can be improved. Too much tissue removed is the hardest case and needs a surgeon with reconstructive experience.
Is revision labiaplasty more expensive?
It's priced only after an examination. Ask your original surgeon what's included first.
Should I go back to the same surgeon?
Usually start there. If you've lost trust, a second opinion from another specialist is reasonable.