Body Surgery
Labiaplasty in Portugal
Specialist intimate surgery in Lisbon for UK patients, to reduce or reshape enlarged or asymmetrical labia, performed under local anaesthesia with a short, straightforward recovery.
A discreet procedure with a significant impact on comfort, confidence and daily quality of life.
Book a ConsultationBody Surgery
What is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure to reduce or reshape the labia minora, the inner folds of skin surrounding the vaginal opening, when they are enlarged, asymmetrical, or irregular. In some cases, the procedure also addresses excess skin in the clitoral hood region.
Enlarged labia can develop for a variety of reasons: they may be present from puberty, may change following childbirth or hormonal shifts, or may simply cause discomfort or self-consciousness that affects everyday life. Many patients seek labiaplasty not solely for cosmetic reasons, but because enlarged labia cause physical discomfort during exercise, intimate activity, or when wearing fitted clothing.
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia with sedation, does not require a hospital stay, and takes approximately one hour. Fine sutures are placed along the natural border of the labia, where they heal discreetly and become imperceptible over time.
Is this right for you?
- You experience physical discomfort during exercise, cycling or intimate activity
- Enlarged or asymmetrical labia cause difficulty with clothing choices
- You have concerns about the appearance of your intimate anatomy
- Hormonal changes or childbirth have altered the size or shape of the labia
- You want a discreet, minimally invasive procedure with a short recovery
Recovery & Aftercare
What to Expect
First Few Days
Mild swelling and discomfort is normal in the first few days and is managed with standard pain relief. Driving can be resumed after three days. Rest and loose-fitting clothing are recommended to keep the area comfortable.
First Two Weeks
Swelling typically subsides significantly within two weeks. Most patients feel fully comfortable returning to normal daily activities, including desk work and light walking, within seven to ten days. The area should be kept clean and dry as directed.
One Month Onwards
Physical exercise and sexual activity should be avoided for one month. Flying is not recommended for four weeks following the procedure. Scars continue to soften and fade over the following months, becoming imperceptible along the labial border.
For UK Patients
Planning Labiaplasty in Lisbon
Because labiaplasty is performed under local anaesthesia with no hospital stay required, it is one of the more straightforward procedures for UK patients to plan around travel. Most patients can travel back to the UK within three to five days of the procedure, providing they feel comfortable and have been reviewed by the surgical team.
Flying is not recommended for four weeks following surgery, so the return journey should be planned accordingly, typically by ground or sea transport if the procedure is recent, or by air once the four-week window has passed. Your post-operative follow-up is managed by our Oxford nursing team from that point onwards.
Privacy and discretion are a priority throughout the process. All consultations, correspondence, and follow-up appointments are handled with complete confidentiality.
Labiaplasty
Are You a Suitable Candidate?
You are at least 18 years of age
You experience physical discomfort or practical difficulty as a result of enlarged or asymmetrical labia
You are not currently pregnant, and there are no active infections or skin conditions in the area to be treated
You are in good general health with no conditions that would affect healing or increase surgical risk
You have realistic expectations about what the procedure can achieve and understand the nature of the recovery involved
Labiaplasty is not recommended during pregnancy or in the presence of active local infections. The procedure is assessed individually at consultation, which is conducted with complete discretion and professionalism.
Your Journey
Consultation Process for UK Patients
Initial Consultation
Your first consultation can take place via video call or in person at our Lisbon clinic. We will discuss your concerns, your goals, your medical history, and what the procedure involves, in a private and professional setting.
Pre-operative Assessment
As the procedure uses local anaesthesia and is performed on an outpatient basis, pre-operative requirements are straightforward. Your surgeon will provide clear preparation instructions ahead of your visit to Lisbon.
Procedure in Lisbon
Labiaplasty is performed at our clinic in Lisbon under local anaesthesia with sedation. The procedure takes approximately one hour. You will be discharged on the same day and can rest at your accommodation in Lisbon.
Recovery and Return
Most patients are comfortable to return to the UK within three to five days of surgery. Flying is not recommended for four weeks, so return travel is typically by ground or sea transport. Clear wound care guidance will be provided for your journey.
Follow-up in Oxford
All post-operative follow-up is managed by our NMC-registered Advanced Nurse Practitioners in Oxford, ensuring your recovery is monitored with continuity of care and complete confidentiality.
Important Information
Risks and Considerations
Labiaplasty is a well-tolerated procedure with a generally straightforward recovery. As with any surgical procedure, risks exist and will be discussed fully at consultation.
- Swelling and bruising: expected and typically resolves within one to two weeks
- Temporary discomfort or sensitivity in the treated area
- Infection: uncommon and managed with appropriate post-operative care
- Altered sensation: temporary changes to sensitivity are possible
- Scarring: incisions are placed along the natural labial border and typically heal imperceptibly
- Asymmetry: minor differences in shape or symmetry may occur
- Rare risk of excessive bleeding or wound healing complications
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Is labiaplasty performed under general anaesthesia?
No. Labiaplasty is performed under local anaesthesia combined with sedation. General anaesthesia is not required. The procedure takes approximately one hour and you are discharged on the same day, no hospital stay is needed.
Will scarring be visible after the procedure?
Incisions are made along the natural border of the labia, where the resulting scar is well camouflaged. In the vast majority of cases, scars become imperceptible over the months following the procedure as healing progresses.
How long is the recovery?
Most patients return to light daily activities within one week and are fully recovered within two weeks. Driving can be resumed after three days. Physical exercise and sexual activity should be avoided for one month to allow full healing.
What is the minimum age for labiaplasty?
The minimum age is 18 years. This ensures that physical development is complete before surgery is considered. Suitability is assessed individually at consultation.
Can labiaplasty be combined with other procedures?
In some cases, labiaplasty may be combined with other intimate or body procedures. Your surgeon will advise on what is appropriate for your anatomy and goals at consultation.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Book a consultation with our specialist plastic surgery team in Lisbon, with pre and post-operative support available in Oxford.