Patient Guide to Labiaplasty

comprehensive information about labiaplasty surgery

Introduction

Welcome to this information booklet. The aim of this booklet is to help you understand the procedure you are considering and make you aware of all the factors that you should take into consideration.

If you are properly prepared, the whole experience will be enhanced, because you will have been well informed.

Please take time to read through this booklet. There may be questions that arise after doing so. We are available to answer any questions you may have.

The procedure you are considering should give you that added confidence which so many people speak about after surgery. It is not the answer to all of life’s problems, but it can, and does change people’s lives for the better.

You must however, view this surgery realistically. Most people know exactly what they are looking for from treatment, and when the Surgeon has a clear understanding of this, he/she is able to give a guide as to the likely outcome. Unrealistic expectations will result in no surgery; it is as simple as that.

Discuss your hopes and fears directly with the Surgeon. He/she will want you to be delighted with the results, because they know that know if you are, then you will recommend your friends.

Remember, we are only a phone call away at any time should you wish to discuss anything further.

 

Meeting your Patient Coordinator

Your Patient Coordinator is a point of contact throughout your treatment and care.

The Patient Coordinator role is not to give clinical advice as in most cases they are not medically qualified. This is not necessary as their role in your care will be as follows:

• To explain the process of the Surgery  This will include a clear explanation of the surgeon’s consultation, the procedure and the aftercare offered.

 

• To outline the hospital facilities.

 

• To discuss this information booklet with yourself in general, making sure that you understand things clearly, and they will highlight any specific areas of concern for discussion with your Surgeon.

 

• To help you with your medical history for presentation at your consultation.

 

• Confirm suitability following your consultation with the Surgeon, then discuss bed availability at the hospital and arrange your procedure for you.

 

• To arrange everything to your satisfaction.

 

• Confirm the required fee after you have seen the Surgeon and arrange for you to pay at the appropriate time. Any other financial issues such as arranging finance should be discussed with your Coordinator.

Patient Coordinators provide a friendly and reliable support to enable you to focus on the procedure. However, always remember that they are not there to advise you clinically, only the surgeon can give clinical advice.

Important Points

Please be aware that all surgery carries risks. 

The Surgeon will discuss these with you at your consultation and these will later be discussed in this booklet.

Your Medical History

When the time comes to take your medical history, it is important to remember past details, however insignificant you think they may be. You will be asked about previous operations, illnesses, any medication you are taking, and details of any allergies. You may also be asked about your family history. Your personal safety is of the highest importance, so it is vital that you divulge all information to the Surgeon.

Pre-operative Screening

Some procedures require you to undergo some tests before the operation can be carried out. Commonly, these include blood tests. Other tests that may be requested by your surgeon or anaesthetist include E.C.G or other scans.

Please be aware that some tests may incur a charge, but your Patient Coordinator will advise you should this be the case.

These tests, when required, are important in ensuring your well-being and safety for the procedure.

Your General Practitioner

It is advisable to inform your GP about your plans to have Cosmetic Surgery. However, in some cases Patients prefer that their GP is not informed. We will respect your decision in this regard. There are times however, when the surgeon may need more information about your past medical history. This will be required in order to assess your suitability for the operation. The Surgeon will inform you should this be the case.

 

 

Labiaplasty – The Benefits

Labiaplasty is one of the most common cosmetic surgery procedures performed today. A successful labiaplasty can bring physical and psychological benefits, for example:

• Increased self-confidence
• Elimination or reduction of discomfort when wearing tight clothing,
• More satisfying sexual relationships

The main labiaplasty advantages are an increased level of self-confidence and an increased level of self-esteem following the operation. Depending on the reason for the vaginal surgery, some women may also report a decrease in discomfort both due to clothes and sexual intercourse. Sometimes a labiaplasty is also performed to increase the chances of a woman reaching orgasm during intercourse, and again when successful this is clearly an advantage.

Limitations of Surgery

The Surgeon will focus on achieving good symmetry of the labia. However, perfect symmetry on both sides may not be possible.

 

Short Term Side Effects

You are likely to encounter swelling and in the early post-operative period. You may also have some bruising. You may be in some discomfort for a few weeks following surgery. If the discomfort escalates opposed to lessening, you should contact us. We cannot determine your response to pain or discomfort prior to a procedure. It can take two to three weeks for the bruising and swelling to subside.

Associated Risks and Conditions

Pain and Discomfort

You may feel sore for two to three weeks after labiaplasty. This is perfectly normal and you will be able to take pain relief medication to help with this.

If you experience undue pain, you must contact your us as soon as possible so that your Surgeon can be notified . As pain thresholds vary from patient to patient, it is impossible to determine how much discomfort you will encounter after having the labiaplasty procedure.

 

 

Bruising and Swelling

You will probably notice quite severe bruising for the first week or two. This can take some time to settle completely. This is perfectly normal and cannot be hurried. The amount of bruising varies from person to person.

 

Bleeding (Haematoma)

Occasionally after surgery, bleeding may occur in or around the area operated on. This is normal and will pass quickly and uneventfully. However, it may be necessary to drain this by performing another procedure.

Seroma

Occasionally, a localized swelling of fluid called ‘Seroma’ may occur. This is rare but if it does happen, you may require a minor procedure and medication.

Infection

It is important to recognize that an infection to the wound site it possible after surgery. This can occur via bacteria from the patient’s own skin. Infections can be associated with a feeling of being unwell, fever and tiredness. Should you experience excessive pain, swelling, redness, or a discharge from the wound – you should contact us immediately.

Changes in Sensitivity

It is common for patients to feel changes in sensitivity around the area treated.

You may find that the area feels numb. This numbness almost always disappears with time and can take several months. Permanent numbness is very rare.

Location and Nature of the Scar

Cosmetic Surgery always aims to minimize scarring to achieve the optimum result. Scarring is an inevitable part of  surgery. Any incisions are strategically selected to give you an optimum results. Over time your scars will fade and most heal in the normal way. Very occasionally, scars do not heal properly. This is known as Hypertrophic Scarring. We cannot determine in advance if this is likely to happen. Scars following labiaplasty are generally minimal, but there are certain genetic individuals and specific post-operative situations (bleeding, wound separation, persistent inflammation, etc.) that can cause more severe scarring in any operation in any area, including the labia minora.

Unsightly scars can be treated. If you already have scarring from a previous procedure which has caused this effect, you must tell the Surgeon as part of the medical history that will be taken.

 

Asymmetry/Irregularities

Because cosmetic surgery is not an exact science, it is impossible for the surgeon to guarantee you perfect symmetry. The final result of the surgery can take some months to become fully visible. It takes time for the swollen tissue to settle down.

Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism

This is a rare but serious complication of surgery and anaesthesia. A blood clot forms in the veins, usually the legs and then moves to the lungs interfering with their function. To minimize the risk, you will be encouraged to mobilize after your surgery.

If you experience sudden chest pain, or if you feel breathless, you should seek medical help immediately

Subjectivity

 Your surgeon will give you an indication as to the possible results that could be achieved. However, this is no way meant to be a guarantee.

It is important that patients recognize that it is not always possible for the surgeon to predetermine the individual and psychological reaction of patients to postoperative complications.

 

Anaesthesia – Possible Side Effects and Complications

Side effects are secondary effects of drugs or treatments. They can often be anticipated but sometimes they are unavoidable. Almost all treatments and drugs carry some risk of side effects.

Side effects do not usually last long. For example: after a general anaesthetic, some people experience a sore throat or may feel sick.

Complications are unwanted and unexpected events after surgery. For example: an unexpected allergy following medication you were given.

The risk of something happening to one in ten people means that on average it will not happen to nine out of ten people.

Understanding the Risks

To help you understand and interpret the risks, here is a guide to help you:

 

Very Common                1 in 10

Common                          1 in 100

Uncommon                      1 in 1000

Rare                                   1 in 10,000

Very Rare                          1 in 100,000

 

Very Common and Common Side Effects:

Feeling Sick and Vomiting After Surgery

Sickness can be treated with anti-vomiting drugs. Sickness can last a few hours to several days. Some operations are likely to cause sickness than others. Your surgeon will be able to advise you further.

 

Sore Throat

If you have had an airway tube to help you breathe, you may get a sore throat.

You can take lozenges to relieve the discomfort.

 

Dizziness or Blurred Vision

You may feel faint after your operation. This may be due to the anaesthetic or loss of fluids causing your blood pressure to drop. Medication can be administered to help overcome this.

 

Shivering

This could be due to your body becoming cold during the surgery, or perhaps due to some drugs that may have been used in the procedure.

 

Headache

A headache can occur for a variety of reasons. You may have been feeling anxious or it could be due to the effect of the anaesthetic. The headache usually gets better within a few hours and can be treated with pain relieving medication. If it lasts an unusually long time, it may need special treatment.

 

 

Itching

The may be due to an allergic reaction. You could become allergic to the sutures for example, or drugs given for your procedure. Some patients are allergic to sterilizing fluid. Itching causing undue discomfort can be treated.

 

 

Pain During Injection of Drugs

Some drugs can cause temporary pain or discomfort when they are injected.

 

Bruising and Soreness

This can happen around the injection and drip sites. This normally settles without the need for treatment.

 

Confusion or Memory Loss

This is common amongst older people who have had a general anaesthetic. This is usually temporary but can last a few days or weeks.

 

Uncommon Side Effects and Complications

Chest Infection

A chest infection can happen to anyone who has undergone surgery. It is more likely that this will happen if you smoke or if you have a chest condition such as asthma.

 

Bladder Problems

Some people find it difficult to pass urine after the operation. If this becomes a problem, a small tube is inserted into the bladder to allow the flow or urine.

 

Slow Breathing

Some pain relieving drugs can cause slow breathing or drowsiness after surgery. If the muscle relaxants are still having an effect, the breathing may be weak. This can be treated with drugs.

 

 

 

 

Damage to Teeth, Lips or Tongue

Damage can be caused to your teeth by clenching them as you recover from surgery. If the anaesthetist finds it difficult to get the breathing tube out, there is a small risk that your teeth could become damaged. It is more likely if you have a limited mouth opening.

 

An Existing Medical Condition Gets Worse

Your medical history will be carefully reviewed to ensure that you are fit and well enough to undergo the procedure. Existing or past medical conditions can increase the risk of some side effects.

 

Awareness

The risk of becoming conscious during your operation will depend on your general health and the type of operation you are having.

 

Careful monitoring by the anaesthetist prevents the anaesthetic from becoming too light. Modern anaesthesia equipment monitors the amount of anaesthetic in your body, making monitoring more accurate.

 

If you think you may have been conscious at any time during a general anaesthetic procedure, you must inform you anaesthetist.

 

It is normal to remember the beginning of the procedure when you are having your anaesthetic and then end when you are being recovered. At these stages you are likely to be semi-conscious.

 

Rare or Very Rare Complications

Damage to the Eyes

Great care is taken to protect your eyes. Your eyelids are held closed with tape, which is removed before you wake up. Sterilizing fluid could leak past the tapes making your eyes sore. This usually causes only temporary damage to the eye surface and you may be given drops to ease the discomfort and promote healing.

 

Serious Allergy to Drugs

Your anaesthetist will want to know about any previous allergic reactions, including any in your family. Allergic reactions are treated very quickly. Very rarely, they can lead to death.

 

Nerve Damage

Nerve damage can be caused by pressure on a nerve during an operation. In the case of a regional anaesthetic block, never damage can occur due to the needle. Most nerve damage is temporary and recovers over two to three months.

 

 

Death

Deaths caused by anaesthesia are very rare.

 

Equipment Failure

Monitors are now used to alert equipment failure. These failures rarely have serious effects.

Your Consultation With the Surgeon

What qualifications and experience do your surgeons have?

Your Surgeon will be a fully qualified Urologist or Gynaecologist  on the GMC Specialist Register f and he/she belong to an appropriate Professional Body. Your Patient Coordinator will be able to give you details of his/her qualifications and registrations

 

What will happen during my consultation with the surgeon?

The consultation with the Surgeon is designed to give you the opportunity to find out exactly what can be achieved for you through this Surgery. The Surgeon will use the time to assess your suitability and the likely outcomes.

 

He/she will discuss all aspects of your medical history and take a detailed medical report from you.

 

He/she will examine the area that is to be treated.

 

The expectations of the procedure will be discussed to see if both you and the Surgeon are comfortable with the likely results.

 

The area may be photographed for your medical records.

 

The side effects and potential dangers of the procedure will be discussed together with the benefits of undergoing the procedure.

 

The Surgeon will explain the procedure in detail to you. Following this discussion the Surgeon will make his/her recommendation. In some cases, patients are not suitable for surgery at all. You will be told if this is the case. Very careful evaluation of the likely outcome is essential to ensure that he Surgeon obtains the very best results possible.

 

If you are unhappy for any reason with your consultation, you should inform your Patient Coordinator directly. We are always happy to arrange a second consultation if you so wish, completely free of charge.

 

What questions should I ask the surgeon?

It is important that you compile at least a mental list of the questions you would like to ask the Surgeon. It would be much easier however, to write them down so that you don’t forget. To give you an idea, these are the more common questions that are asked by clients:

• What does the procedure involve?
• How long will I have to take off work?
• How long will I need to stay in hospital ?
• What will be the recovery time?
• Can I see you for follow up visits after the surgery?
• Will I be in discomfort after the operation?
• What do you think can be achieved?
• Should I inform my GP?
• What are the risks?

 

What arrangements do I need to make should I decide to proceed with surgery?

• Arrange a suitable date for your operation with you Patient Coordinator.

This is the first point of contact to start the process off.

• Arrange the time off work as stipulated by your the Surgeon. This is likely to be between seven and fourteen days depending on the procedure.
• Childcare – Arrange some help with childcare for the period you are recovering, and some help at home afterwards. This may be very important for some procedures where you are advised not to lift anything for a while..
• Your fees will need to be paid by the due date. Ensure your financial matters are in order for the procedure. Last minute hitches can cause unnecessary frustration.
• Ensure the date for surgery is suitable for you. Should you need to change the date, it is likely there will be charges
• Ensure you have informed your GP.
• Attend any pre-operative screening tests beforehand. Go as soon as possible to avoid any unnecessary delays.
• Prepare a suitcase. An overnight bag will suffice, less if you are just there for the day.
• Check the information sent to you .Make sure you haven’t forgotten anything.
• You must inform your Patient Co-ordinator if you feel ill, have a cold or any other unusual signs before surgery.
• It is not possible to proceed with Cosmetic Surgery if you become pregnant. Please take the required precautions during the time before admission.

Postoperative Recovery

The postoperative recovery service starts the moment you have been discharged from hospital. We want you to have a problem free recovery period. To enable this, you must follow the advice given to you by the Surgeon.

You will be given information before you leave hospital about what to do and what not to do after the operation.

You may be given medication or a prescription, to take over the following week or so. If you are given a Prescription you will need to take this to a Pharmacy. As this will be a private prescription you will need to pay for the medication privately.

An appointment will be made for you to see the Surgeon at the appropriate time. Similarly, if sutures need to be removed or wounds need to be checked, this will also be arranged for you.

You must attend review appointments as recommended. This is important in order to monitor your progress after the operation. The number of appointments you willneed will depend on the procedure performed.

It is important to take things easy after your operation.. You should however, remain reasonably active and we ask that you do not retreat to your bed.

We are on hand throughout your recovery period should you need help or advice.

 

Additional Information

Age Limit

The Surgeons do not operate on minors. The minimum age to have surgery is 18 years old.

 

Period of Reflection

We urge all of our clients to consider the facts before proceeding with surgery. Many clients tell us that they have been waiting for the surgery they want for years. This is all very well, but a period of reflection to digest what has been discussed with you, is always a good idea. In line with GMC guidelines Surgeons do not normally operate on any Patients within fourteen days of their consultation.

 

The Consent Form

You will be asked to sign a consent form, which is there to ensure that you are clear about what is being offered, and what can and cannot be done. You will not be able to proceed unless you have signed your consent to surgery form.