The main reason for the increasing demand in this area is an increased aesthetic awareness. The genital region is becoming less and less shameful, but is instead moving into the radar of self-confidence. Shaving the genital area, for example, has been a trend for many years.
Short or no pubic hair makes the genital area more visible. This can make unflattering features, especially the labia, stand out. There are also functional reasons, such as
- Friction when wearing tight clothing and during sport,
- invagination of the labia minora during sexual intercourse and
- hygienic aspects
also contribute to the decision to undergo surgical correction. The strongest motivation for aesthetic genital correction lies in the often considerable psychological stress and restriction of sexual life.
The aesthetic ideal is the shape of the vulva of a young woman: tight, full labia minora completely cover the labia minora, similar to the silhouette of a shell.
Changes in shape and different variations in shape are due to
- hormonal influences,
- congenital tissue weakness,
- hereditary factors,
- age-related changes,
- influences of gravity, etc.
and the like.
Long labia minora and sagging labia majora are the most common complaints. In the case of actual clitoral hyperplasia, a hormonal examination is recommended to clarify intersexual manifestations. In some cases, a chromosomal examination may also be useful.
Most corrective procedures in the female genital area are reductions of the labia minora or labia majora. A combination of both is also possible. Reconstructive procedures are also frequently performed after unsuccessful previous operations, particularly of the labia minora.
Other options for aesthetic correction of the female genital region include
- padding of the labia majora with autologous fat,
- Reduction of the clitoris,
- shifting the clitoris towards the vaginal entrance (with the aim of improving sexual stimulation), and
- reduction of the mons pubis.
As a rule, the procedures are performed on an outpatient basis and under local anesthesia . Ideally, the surgeon uses a laser or a high-frequency radiosurgery device to remove the tissue. These instruments enable a more precise incision to be made. The sutures are absorbable.
The operation time for labia minora reduction is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Precise preoperative marking of the incision lines is crucial. The doctor should also remove excess skin around the clitoris. The incision can be continued along the fold between the labia majora and labia minora.
To reduce the labia majora, the excess is removed along the entire length using a spindle-shaped incision.
To fill and shape sagging labia minora, the patient's own fat can be transplanted (Coleman lipostructure).
The clitoris is reduced or relocated while protecting the sensitive nerves and blood vessels in order to avoid loss of sensation.
Voluminous mons pubis are reduced in size by liposuction.

Reduction of the labia minora is a common procedure for aesthetic correction in the female genital area © Vectoressa | AdobeStock
Aftercare, especially after corrective surgery in the labia area, means
- 4 weeks of sexual abstinence and
- avoidance of mechanical stress through sport and cycling.
Almost 100 percent of patients are satisfied with the procedure: they report that both functional and psychological symptoms have disappeared.