Recent studies have seen a dramatic increase in cosmetic surgery across the UK: from Botox and fillers, to facelifts and breast surgery. But now there has been a significant increase in the number of women opting for a little “nip and tuck” surgery on their labia. As women, we all feel the pressures from the media to look good and stay looking young, hence the rise in injectables being used in cosmetic clinics nationwide. We are all aware of the common cosmetic procedures and what fantastic results available if in the right hands. But how many of us have thought about going under the knife for perfection down there? A survey from one poll suggests that a staggering 61% of women in the UK often, sometimes or always find their vagina ‘unattractive’.
That leaves only 39% of women who are quite happy with the way our vaginas look. Does this indicate that women simply are not sure what is normal when it comes to our ‘lady lips’? Realistically, how many women often see other ladies’ vaginas and can tell what is normal and what isn’t? Once again the media have fooled us into thinking that unless we look like the characters in the magazines and on the television we aren’t normal. In the majority of cases, these ‘perfect’ ladies have been airbrushed and photoshopped to make their bodies more aesthetically pleasing. Fooling us and our partners!
Labiaplasty, sometimes known as labial reduction is now a common procedure in the UK for many cosmetic surgeons and gynaecologists. The procedure is not cheap at around £3,000 and if not performed by an experienced surgeon in a safe and clean environment it can leave horrendous results. The op is usually performed under a general anaesthetic and the patient will be required to stay in hospital for a short time and then recover at home for two weeks.
The procedure involves removing the excess skin of the inner or outer labia. Although becoming increasingly popular for cosmetic reasons this isn’t always the case. Some women suffer tremendously with enlarged labia or ‘lips’ and this can cause distress during intercourse and when wearing tight underwear and jeans. Paul Banwell, member of SaferCosmeticSurgery.co.uk says, “Most of my patients have had concerns for years and take a while to build up the confidence to consult a surgeon – it’s often a relief to realise something can be done. Overly long or large labia can cause discomfort in clothes and during exercise and sex, but most women’s motivation is aesthetic.
They want a more streamlined appearance, to look good in swimwear and to overcome sexual self-consciousness.” Mr Banwell performs up to half a dozen labiaplasties each month and is based in South East England, with a private practice located at McIndoe Surgical Centre, East Grinstead. This procedure should only be performed by an experienced Plastic, Reconstructive and Cosmetic Surgeon or an accredited Gynaecologist. You should always thoroughly research your chosen surgeon before going ahead with any surgery. In some severe cases this operation is offered on the NHS and should be discussed with your GP.