“Labia” is the terminology for the folds of skin around the opening of the vagina, of which there are two different parts. The outer folds are known as the labia majora (which translates to large lips) and are the part which protect the external genitalia, whereas the inner folds are known as the labia minora (which translates to small lips) and is the part that protects the openings of the urethra and vagina.

The two major forms of labiaplasty that are performed are known as the trim procedure and the wedge procedure, each with their own benefits and downsides. The trim procedure was the first procedure that was used within labiaplasty and is the most widely performed by surgeons, removing excess tissue from the labia minora before it is sutured to become symmetrical with the labia majora. With the wedge procedure, a partial thickness is removed from the thickest areas of the labia minora (leaving the submucosa layer intact). This results in a natural appearance to the vagina post-surgery, preserving the existing edges of the labia. There are also a number of other techniques that can be performed with their own pros and cons, which will all be discussed with the surgeon prior to surgery to find the perfect procedure to achieve your results.