Labiaplasty is an intimate procedure that many women are curious about but may feel uncomfortable discussing openly. It involves surgically reducing the size of the labia minora – the inner folds of skin on either side of the vaginal opening. While often assumed to be purely cosmetic, labiaplasty can address a range of physical and emotional concerns.
In this blog post, we explore the medical, emotional and social aspects of labiaplasty through a candid interview with Mrs. Raina Rodrigues – a plastic surgeon, and Daniela – a Maltese patient who chose to undergo the procedure.
Thank you both for joining us! So firstly we’d like to turn to you Mrs. Rodrigues. What exactly is labiaplasty, and what are the most common reasons women seek it?
Mrs. Rodrigues: Labiaplasty is an intimate procedure that many women are curious about but may feel uncomfortable discussing openly. It involves surgically reducing the size of the labia minora – the inner folds of skin on either side of the vaginal opening. While often assumed to be purely cosmetic, labiaplasty can address a range of physical and emotional concerns.
Most women seek advice about this procedure because of physical discomfort in the area. If the labia minora protrude from the labia majora significantly, this may cause discomfort in day-to-day physical activity. This may include chafing, rubbing, pain and pulling; often the patient reports needing to physically tuck the labia in line in order to get on with her day as normal. This may also make certain clothing such as jeans uncomfortable, so the patient finds she is avoiding these clothes and also having to modify underwear. Longer labia minora can also adversely interfere with some sporting activities, particularly running, cycling and horse-riding. It can also make sexual intercourse physically uncomfortable due to pulling, rubbing and “getting caught”. If severe, pulling, blistering and bleeding can occur too.
While a variant of normal, protruding labia minora make some women feel uncomfortable and compromise their confidence. This leads to them either avoiding situations where it may be visible, such as being in swimwear or tight sportswear in front of others. It can also cause embarrassment and compromise confidence during sexual encounters.
Can you briefly explain the procedure itself? What happens during surgery?
Mrs. Rodrigues: This is a short (60 minutes approximately) day case procedure that does not require an overnight hospital stay. It is considered a minor surgical procedure. Labiaplasty surgery can be carried out under local anaesthetic, under local anaesthetic with sedation or under general anaesthetic.
Who is a good candidate for labiaplasty? And who might not be?
Mrs Rodrigues: Surgery can only be performed on objective anatomical measurements. Our aim is to reduce the size of the labia minora (the inner vulval lips on either side of the vaginal opening) such that they sit within the labia majora (the outer hair-bearing lips) when standing and to leave a residual of a 10mm margin of labia minora.
If the labia minora hang proud (or protrude) from the labia majora when standing, or if there is more than 10mm of labia majora from its base, then we can surgically reduce this to bring the labia minora back to sit within the confines of the labia majora and to leave a minimum of a 10mm margin of labia minora form the base. This means that the redundant excess tissue is removed, so that it doesn’t chafe, rub, blister or bleed during sports, in some types of clothing and during sexual intercourse.
Some patients would have gone through traumatic labour and childbirth leaving tears, scars, redundant skin and significant asymmetry between the sides. While this can be bothersome from an aesthetic point of view, it can also be rather uncomfortable.
Many women are naturally asymmetrical. This is a completely normal variant. This surgery can approximate symmetry in these patients. Good candidates are those in good physical health who don’t smoke. There are very few contra-indications to this surgery. Smoking and blood thinning medications are relative contra-indications. As this is elective surgery, we ask that a patient is nicotine-free (smoking or vaping) for a minimum of 6 weeks beforehand and 6 weeks after. This is because nicotine slows down wound healing, increases the risk of infection and predisposes to adverse or unsightly scarring. This is completely elective surgery, so our risk threshold is such that we want our patients to be completely optimised beforehand.
I want to be able to deliver a result the patient is extremely pleased with, one that I (as a plastic surgeon) am proud of – in the most seamless and uneventful way possible.
The patient’s mental health is of utmost importance to this procedure. This is because we are permanently altering a very intimate part of the anatomy. This is extremely closely linked to the patient’s psychology. As doctors first and foremost, we need to ensure that this alteration of anatomy is not in any way going to compromise this patient’s mental wellbeing. In fact, we want our surgery to have a very positive impact on both the patient’s physical health as well as her mental health.
This procedure is not offered to ladies under the age of 18. Body dysmorphia is more prevalent that we like to think it is, especially when associated with intimate body areas, such as the vulva. Body dysmorphia occurs when the patient’s subjective opinion of the body part on question does not quite match the objective observations, or the degree to which it is a departure from what is perceived to be normal is very exaggerated. It can also happen when the patient obsesses unhealthily over different parts of her anatomy. Studies have shown that these patients are very rarely happy after surgical intervention, and
that indeed surgery may exacerbate this condition. In this case, we do not offer surgery but we refer the patient for psychological help in the first instance. Again, here we are looking after the patient as a whole. As an industry, cosmetic surgery is very closely linked to psychology and we work closely with our psychologist colleagues.
As a surgeon I need to be happy that the patient has realistic expectations of what can be achieved through this procedure. If I feel that I either cannot meet patient’s expectations or I feel that they are unrealistic, I will not be offering that patient surgery.
Finally, I need to be relatively confident that the patient will comply with my postprocedure instructions. The success of the operation is heavily dependent on adherence to these instructions, which are relatively simple and easy to follow.
What are the risks and potential complications of the procedure?
Mrs. Rodrigues: As surgical procedures go, this is a very safe and minor surgery. The risk profile is low. The risks associated with any wound and its healing are pain, bleeding, allergic reaction, infection and bruising. There will always be a small degree of asymmetry. Some patients may think too much or too little excess skin was removed. However, this is an objective measuremeant and 1cm of residual labia minora is left in place. As this surgery is performed for both functional and aesthetic purposes, there is always a small chance that the final result may not quite be to the patient’s liking.
I perform on average about 10 labiaplasties per month between Malta and the UK. Thankfully, to date, I have not encountered any significant adverse events, nor an unhappy patient. I’d say that of all the reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery procedures I perform this is by far the one with the happiest and most grateful patients. As a plastic surgeon, it is so nice to see patients coming in to their follow-up appointment with me so happy.
Are there any long-term effects women should be aware of, especially regarding sensation or function?
Mrs. Rodrigues: “Not really” is the short answer. Because we leave a margin of skin to ensure long-lasting natural results. Of course, the usual signs of ageing in the area, which is some laxity associated with hormonal change and advancing years will still occur. There however remains a cosmetic element to this procedure, as well as functional one. So there is always the small chance that displeasure with the aesthetic outcome may occur. This however, thankfully, is vanishingly rare.
There’s a lot of misinformation around what a “normal” vulva looks like. How do you address body image concerns with your patients?
Mrs. Rodrigues: There is considerable variation between different women in the vulval area, all of which fall under the realms of regular anatomy. Unlike the nose, the lips or the breasts, the ideal vulva has not been described. As a consensus has found, it is generally more confortable to the patient if the labia minora sit within the labia majora and have a height of about 10mm from the base. This is the first thing I explain to patients, even before I examine them. There is no such thing as the prettiest vulva. Its appearance is extremely subjective.
What are the most common myths about labiaplasty that you’d like to bust?
Mrs. Rodrigues: The entire “designer vagina” hype is just that. We don’t follow trends but we aim to restore comfort and confidence through the optimisation of form and function of the vulval area. For a long time, ladies weren’t aware that this issues could be addressed at all, let alone surgically. Then, there was a little bit of a stigma surrounding the procedure. Today, open discussion is encouraged and (I’d like to think) doctors and surgeons are more approachable and less “feared” than before, so women feel more comfortable coming forward and discussing this issue should it bother them.
Lots of people ask me “is this the porn star procedure”? I intently tell them that I haven’t carried out any studies (nor have I found any in the literature) of what typical “porn star” vulva should look like, so no, I am certainly not following any such template when drawing out my surgical markings.
Another myth is: “This is what you’re born with therefore this is your lot in life. Put up with, nobody is interested”. This is just so wrong. Things can be done to improve things, and in a safe manner too.
What does recovery look like? How long does it take to return to normal activities?
Mrs. Rodrigues: The short answer is two weeks of rest . This isn’t bed rest but no taking the dog for a walk, doing the gardening or cooking an elaborate meal. In the first couple of days take it easy. An ice pack with feet up or lying down is helpful. I advise taking regular paracetamol and ibuprofen for the first 48 hours. Nothing stronger should be required. No going into work for two weeks. Remote working should be fine as long as you’re not sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time, as this may exacerbate swelling.
No driving for the first two weeks. No gym or strenuous exercise for 4 weeks and no sex, tampons, baths or swimming for 6 weeks. This is to avoid infection.
Recovery isn’t too uncomfortable or painful at all, but you do need to take it easy.
In your opinion, can labiaplasty be empowering for women? Or is there a risk of reinforcing beauty standards?
Mrs. Rodrigues: It really isn’t about beauty as such, but primarily about physical comfort and improved confidence. Of course, this is an intimate area that is so closely linked with sexual activity and confidence, that the aesthetic component has to be taken into consideration too. That said, this is the same for any plastic surgery procedure, whatever we are doing. Our job as plastic surgeons is to restore both form and function. Even if I am removing a skin cancer from the eyelid (for example). While I want to make sure that I’ve removed the cancer completely I want to make sure that the patient can still close his eye so that the eyeball is protected and to do so in a cosmetically sensitive manner such that when he goes out he can enjoy normal social interactions, ideally without anybody noticing that he has undergone surgery.
Labiaplasty surgery achieves both these ends. The goal of labiaplasty surgery is to enable women to go about their daily life feeling comfortable and confident. There seems to be a lot of hesitation and stigma, and a general feeling of “well I guess this is my lot in life and I’ll just have to put up with he discomfort”. This however, is patently untrue. This is an intimate issue that can be addressed in a professional and manner that allows the patient to comfortably discuss any concerns and methods of improvement. I’d say it’s absolutely empowering because it can dramatically improve a woman’s quality of life.
Between the UK and Malta, I perform approximately 10 labiaplasty procedures per month. This is among other cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery procedures. Never have I seen so many happy and grateful patients. Patients are often embarrassed and uncomfortable when they come in to see me the first time. At their follow up appointment (6 weeks after surgery), you wouldn’t recognise them. They are literally crying with happiness saying how much their life has improved and how they wish they’d had it done sooner. To a surgeon this is the ideal outcome, and what makes it worth going in to work every day.
At the end of the day, I want to deliver results that the patient is pleased with, and I am proud of, in the most seamless way possible.
And now, Daniela, we’d love to hear more about your personal experience in undergoing labiaplasty. Firstly, would you mind sharing a bit about yourself and your experience as a patient?
Daniela: Most people in the WHAM and Women for Women (Malta) community already know me as someone who advocates for women’s rights and for better awareness around women’s healthcare experiences. I am passionate about empowering women to talk openly about their bodies and to access safe, informed care. I have also worked closely with Consultant Plastic Surgeon Mrs. Raina Rodrigues on a professional level, and over the years I have seen first-hand how dedicated she is to women’s wellbeing. Stepping into the role of a patient myself felt very natural, and I hope sharing my experience adds another honest voice to the conversation around women’s health and confidence.
What made you consider undergoing the procedure in the first place? And was it something you had been thinking about for a long time?
Daniela: I had noticed some asymmetry years before I became a mum. At that stage it was something I was aware of, but it wasn’t affecting me day-to-day. After childbirth, it became more pronounced and started to impact me functionally. For example, when going to the bathroom, the urine stream would sometimes hit one side and trickle down my leg, which was frustrating and uncomfortable. It wasn’t about intimacy or underwear discomfort, but those daily annoyances added up.
I have known Mrs. Raina Rodrigues for years through facial aesthetic treatments and professionally as part of her team. Because of that, I had already seen how gentle, professional, and empathetic she is with patients. Our professional connection never influenced my decision, this was a genuinely needed surgery for me. During one of my regular appointments we discussed it, and I felt completely safe and informed. It wasn’t a sudden decision; it was something I had thought about for a long time, and a few years after having my child, it felt like the right moment to finally address it.
Did you talk to friends, family, or a therapist before deciding? How did people react?
Daniela: I didn’t feel the need to consult anyone else. I mentioned it in passing during a facial aesthetics appointment with Mrs. Raina Rodrigues, and that led to a proper consultation about labiaplasty. Every question I had was answered clearly and calmly. There was absolutely no pressure, and I felt completely at ease. Because I trusted her and understood the procedure, I didn’t need anyone else’s input. It was a very personal decision.
What helped you in choosing and trusting Mrs. Rodrigues as your surgeon?
Daniela: What helped me most was a combination of trust, familiarity, and her exceptional professionalism. I have known her for years professionally and through regular facial treatments, so I already knew how gentle, reassuring, and thorough she is. I am naturally a little biased because of that connection, but honestly, she is one of the most qualified surgeons locally. She performs approximately 10 labiaplasty procedures per month and has extensive experience across two countries, which gave me additional confidence in her expertise. Her patient care, bedside manner, and attention to detail are truly second to none, which made me feel completely confident that I was in the safest, most capable hands.
Knowing that I could contact her at any time with any question really helped reassure me, especially after the procedure. Many patients feel they cannot get in touch with their surgeon after surgery, so having that open line of communication made a big difference and gave me peace of mind.
What were your biggest fears or doubts before the surgery?
Daniela: I honestly didn’t have any fears about the surgery itself. The only thing I was a little sceptical about were the post-op restrictions. I knew I would need about 2 weeks of no driving and extended rest, which is a challenge when you are active and, in my case, a single mum of a young dancer. I also love swimming, so not being able to do that for a while, was a small concern, but ultimately a small sacrifice for the outcome I wanted. Other than that, I felt calm and prepared.
Can you walk us through the day of the procedure and the recovery period from your point of view as a patient?
Daniela: The day of the procedure was very calm and straightforward. I arrived at at the hospital about an hour before the surgery, around 3:30pm. I had local anaesthesia without sedation and didn’t take anyone with me since it was a day-case procedure. The theatre environment was lovely and un-intimidating, which immediately put me at ease.
The procedure itself was smooth and didn’t hurt at all. Recovery has been straightforward. The key is to rest, follow the aftercare instructions, and use ice packs. I was careful to take two weeks off driving and allow myself extended rest. I am currently in week five of recovery, feeling much better, and the area is healing really well. It has already made a noticeable difference in my comfort and confidence.
Did you experience any pain or complications?
Daniela: I did not experience any complications and wouldn’t describe the recovery as painful. There was mild discomfort and swelling in the first few days, which is normal. Following the aftercare advice and using ice packs helped a lot. Everything has been smooth and is healing beautifully.
How do you feel about your body now, physically and emotionally? Did the procedure improve your daily life: physically, sexually, emotionally?
Daniela: I feel really happy and much more comfortable in my body now, both physically and emotionally. Simple daily things, like going to the bathroom, are no longer frustrating or embarrassing. Emotionally, it has given me a boost in confidence. I feel less self-conscious and more at ease with myself. The results look completely natural and knowing the area is healing well gives me real peace of mind. Overall, it has improved my comfort, confidence, and quality of life in ways I hadn’t fully anticipated.
Why did you decide to share your story, especially when many women might stay silent?
Daniela: I decided to share my story because there is still very limited information about labiaplasty, and it is often seen as purely cosmetic, when in fact it can address real healthcare issues. There is no need for stigma around women’s health or even about plastic surgery. I also have the privilege of reaching a diverse variety of followers, and if sharing my experience can raise awareness, normalize the conversation, and help even one woman feel empowered to seek advice or treatment, that is incredibly satisfying. Women should know they can take care of their bodies, their comfort, and their confidence without shame or hesitation.
Before we reach the end of this interview, we’d love to hear your personal point of view on the following question Daniela…
Do you think media, porn, or social media have influenced how women feel about their genital appearance?
Daniela: Yes, I do think media and social media can influence how women feel about their genital appearance. There is a lot of imagery, from advertising and entertainment to online platforms, that presents a very narrow idea of what ‘normal’ looks like. This can make women feel self-conscious or unsure about their own bodies. In Malta, where women’s healthcare is still often stigmatized, this pressure can feel even stronger.
It is important to remember that there is a wide range of completely healthy and normal anatomy. Honest conversations, education, and sharing real experiences, like I am doing now, can help women feel more confident, understand their bodies, and make choices that are right for them without shame or pressure.
And finally, what would you say to a woman reading this who is curious about the procedure but afraid to even bring it up?
Daniela: I would say to any woman reading this who is curious but afraid to bring it up: your health, comfort, and confidence matter, and there is absolutely no shame in speaking up. Although Maltese society often loves to stigmatize women’s healthcare, issues like this are completely normal and valid.
It is important to ask questions, seek professional advice, and make decisions that are right for you. Do not let embarrassment or societal pressure stop you from taking care of yourself. Your body, your comfort, and your wellbeing are valid, and addressing concerns is a normal and responsible part of looking after yourself.
Dr Raina: Honestly, just come and have a chat. It’s not a fraction as daunting or intimidating as you think.
If you are curious about this procedure, or you are in any way feeling uncomfortable with the anatomy in your vulval area, come in and have a chat about it. The discussion will be open, honest and frank. I am a doctor first and foremost, and I don’t “sell” procedures. I, myself, am also a woman who has had two children, so I can completely understand and empathise.
I see patients at the Aesthetic Virtue Clinic, at Dees Spas at the Athenaeum Spa and the Corinthia Hotel, Attard. I operate at St James Hospital, Zejtun. If you’re interested in booking a consultation, please send an email to [email protected]
I’d like to thank you both, Mrs. Raina Rodrigues and Daniela, for taking the time to share such detailed and thoughtful insights. Your openness and expertise truly help shed light on the personal and professional sides of labiaplasty.
Reference
IntimMed Seattle. (n.d.). Labioplasty/labiaplasty for labia minora. Retrieved on 12th November 2025 from https://intimmed.com/labioplasty-labiaplasty-for-labia-minora/
Mrs. Raina Rodrigues is a Maltese consultant plastic surgeon practising both in the UK and in Malta. She performs approximately 10 labiaplasty procedure per month across both countries. She is very highly regarded for her professional yet warm and approachable manner. This is complemented by her attention to intricate detail as evidenced by her exemplary surgical results and very high patient satisifaction rate. In
the UK she works on the NHS sub-specialising in reconstruction of the face following skin cancer. In the private sector her main focus is on cosmetic gynaecology, facial aesthetics and rejuvenation surgery. She holds a PhD in plastic surgery as well as an MSc in Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
Claire Galea is a self-employed holistic care practitioner with formal training in nursing. She is passionate about patient-centered care and public education on health and social issues. Committed to lifelong learning, Claire enjoys exploring a broad range of topics, from spirituality to contemporary affairs.
Claire is also passionate about spreading awareness on the negative effects that domestic abuse leaves on its victims’ mental, emotional, social and physical wellbeing. She is the author of two downloadable ebooks, namely Heal Your Life Forever and 5 Simple Steps To Creating The Life Of Your Dreams.
Click here to check out Claire’s full bio as well as a list of all her Wham published articles
