1. Understanding the Anatomy
The labia majora are the outer folds of skin and soft tissue that surround the vaginal opening (introitus).
They contain skin, subcutaneous fat, glands and connective tissue, and their size and shape vary greatly between individuals.
It is normal for the labia majora to change in appearance due to:
- Ageing and loss of skin elasticity
- Weight gain or weight loss
- Hormonal changes
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Genetics and natural anatomical variation
In some women, the labia majora appear full, prominent, sagging, or disproportionate, leading to functional or aesthetic concerns.
2. What Is Labia Majora Reduction?
Labia Majora Reduction (also called majora reshaping, contouring, or debulking) is a minor surgical procedure performed to:
- Reduce excess volume, bulk, or sagging
- Improve symmetry
- May enhance comfort during daily activities
The goal is to create a natural, harmonious appearance without altering the function of the external genitalia.
At MACS Clinic, this procedure is typically performed as a day-case under:
- Local anaesthetic, with or without
- Light sedation (if required)
As a day case procedure
3. Indications for Labia Majora Reduction
Women may consider this procedure for one or more reasons:
Functional Concerns
- Discomfort when sitting, walking, cycling or running
- Bulging of tissue in swimwear or fitted clothing
- Irritation, chafing or rubbing
- Difficulty maintaining hygiene
Aesthetic / Confidence Reasons
- Desire for a more balanced appearance of the outer labia
- Asymmetry between the two sides
- Sagging or deflated appearance due to ageing
- Feeling self-conscious in intimate situations
Post-weight-loss or Post-pregnancy Changes
- Tissue redundancy
- Laxity of skin and subcutaneous fat
4. Techniques Used for Labia Majora Reduction
The choice of technique depends on your anatomy, goals and skin quality.
a) Liposuction (Fat Removal)
- Suitable for excess fatty volume with good skin elasticity
- Fine cannula used to remove excess fat
- Small puncture incisions only
b) Surgical Debulking (Direct Excision)
- Removal of excess soft tissue and fat
- Reshaping for contour improvement
- Dissolvable sutures are used for skin closure
c) Skin Tightening / Skin Excision
- Removal of excess or redundant skin
- Often combined with fat reduction
- May create a firmer, smoother of outer labia
d) Combined Technique
- Mixture of liposuction + direct sculpting
- Often produces the most refined result in selected cases
5. Anaesthesia
At MACS Clinic, we commonly use:
- Local anaesthetic to fully numb the area
- Optional conscious sedation for relaxation
- No general anaesthesia is generally required
Patients can return home the same day with an escort.
6. Sutures Used
- Fine, dissolvable sutures are used throughout the procedure
- No suture removal is required
Dissolve gradually over 2–3 weeks
7. Aftercare and Recovery
Normal Post-operative Sequelae
You should expect:
- Swelling (most noticeable during first 7–10 days)
- Bruising and discoloration
- Mild discomfort or tightness
- Temporary numbness or sensitivity
These symptoms gradually settle over 2–4 weeks.
Post-operative Instructions
To ensure smooth healing:
- Ice packs for 48–72 hours (10–15 minutes each time)
- Daily shower
- Keep area clean and dry
- Clinisept+ spray twice daily
- Wear loose cotton underwear
- Maintain immaculate personal hygiene
- Avoid long walks and prolonged sitting for first few days
- No contact sports for 4–6 weeks
- No sexual intercourse for 6 weeks
- Avoid swimming or hot tubs for 3–4 weeks
- Gentle mobility is encouraged, but avoid strenuous activity
8. Possible Complications
All surgical procedures carry some risks.
Possible risks include:
Minor and Temporary
- Swelling, bruising
- Asymmetry during early healing
- Discomfort or tenderness
Surgical Risks
- Over-correction (too much tissue removed)
- Under-correction (persistent excess volume)
- Asymmetry
- Wound separation or delayed healing
- Infection (rare with good hygiene)
- Haematoma or seroma (fluid collection)
- Scarring (usually minimal and well-hidden)
- Painful intercourse
Effect on Vaginal Introitus
- Excessive reduction can alter the appearance of the vaginal opening
9. Limitations of the Procedure
It is important for patients to have realistic expectations:
- The aim is improvement, not perfection
- Mild asymmetry may remain (normal for all human anatomy)
- It does not treat issues related to vaginal muscles or labia minora
- Age-related changes may gradually continue over time
- Results depend on individual tissue characteristics, healing and lifestyle factors
Significant weight changes after surgery may affect the result
10. When to seek urgent medical advice ( MACS clinic , GP or Urgent care centre – NHS)
You should contact MACS Clinic immediately if you notice:
- Increasing pain not relieved by painkillers
- Persistent bleeding
- Spreading redness or warmth
- Unusual discharge or fever
- Sudden significant swelling
Any concern about wound opening
11. Summary
Labia Majora Reduction at MACS Clinic is available as local anaesthetic day case procedure to
- Reduce excess volume or sagging
- May improve comfort and mobility
- May enhance confidence and self-image
- May restore a more balanced, youthful appearance
Most patients recover smoothly with minimal downtime and high
Contact MACS Clinic
- Phone: 020 7078 4378
- WhatsApp: 07792 648 726
- Email: enquiries@macsclinic.co.uk
- Website: www.macsclinic.co.uk
BOOK a FREE Video Consultation: https://calendly.com/macsclinic/free-video-consultation?month=2025-01
