Labiaplasty is surgery to reduce or reshape the inner labia (labia minora), most often because they rub, twist or cause irritation during exercise, intercourse or in tight clothing. It usually takes 45–90 minutes under local anesthesia with sedation, most women go home the same day, and intercourse is avoided for about 4–6 weeks while the tissue heals.
- Duration
- 45–90 minutes
- Anesthesia
- Local with sedation
- Hospital stay
- Same-day discharge
- Desk work
- Usually after 3–7 days
- Cost guide
- ₩1,500,000–₩3,500,000
- Insurance
- Usually not covered
What is labiaplasty, and who considers it?
Labiaplasty reduces or reshapes the labia minora — the inner folds of skin at the vaginal opening. The size and shape of the labia vary widely, and one side is often longer than the other; this is normal. Women most commonly ask about surgery because of:
- Rubbing or pinching in underwear, leggings or swimwear
- Discomfort during cycling, running or yoga
- Labia being pulled or tucked during intercourse
- Difficulty with hygiene, or recurrent irritation
- Self-consciousness about appearance or asymmetry
For international patients, the practical side — booking, stay length and documents — is covered in labiaplasty in Seoul for foreigners.
Trim vs. wedge: which technique?
| Trim (edge resection) | Wedge resection | |
|---|---|---|
| What is removed | Tissue along the outer edge | A V-shaped section from the middle |
| Natural edge | Removed, including darker edge | Preserved |
| Best suited to | Long, uneven or darker edges | Women who want to keep the natural edge |
| Main risks | Over-resection if too aggressive | Wound separation at the join |
Excess skin at the clitoral hood is often addressed at the same time — see clitoral hood reduction. If the concern is the outer labia losing volume, labia majora fillers are a different, non-surgical option.
- Rubbing or pinching in clothing
- Discomfort during sport or intercourse
- Asymmetry or a twisted edge
- Recurrent irritation
- Aims to reduce friction and irritation
- Many patients notice more comfort in activity
- Aims for a more balanced contour
- Natural-looking, conservative reshaping
Your labiaplasty at Yoonho, step by step
- Private consultation in English Your symptoms and goals are discussed, and a gentle examination is done with you, using a mirror if you wish.
- Plan and estimate The doctor explains the suitable technique, what will and will not change, the risks and a written estimate.
- Preparation Surgery is planned outside your period. If sedation is used, fast for about 6–8 hours.
- Surgery Under local anesthesia with sedation, tissue is reshaped and closed with fine dissolvable stitches in about 45–90 minutes.
- Recovery room About 1–2 hours of rest, then home with pain relief and written aftercare.
- Wound check About one week later; travelers usually fly after this check.
Recovery timeline
- Day 0–3 Swelling and soreness peak. Use cold packs, rest, wear loose cotton underwear and rinse after the toilet.
- Day 3–7 Most women return to desk work. Avoid long sitting on hard surfaces.
- Week 2–3 Stitches dissolve. Swelling continues to reduce; the edges may look uneven at first.
- Week 4–6 Intercourse, tampons, swimming, cycling and gym exercise are usually resumed once healed.
- Month 3–6 The final shape and softness settle.
Risks and how they are reduced
Possible risks include bleeding or hematoma, infection, wound separation, asymmetry, scarring, changes in sensation, pain with intercourse and, if too much tissue is removed, dryness or a result that is hard to correct. A conservative plan, careful technique and following aftercare instructions reduce these risks. Some women need a small touch-up later.
Cost and insurance for international patients
As a general guide, labiaplasty costs about ₩1,500,000–₩3,500,000; complex or combined procedures can cost more (some up to around ₩6,000,000). A written estimate is given after consultation. Cosmetic labiaplasty is not covered by National Health Insurance. If surgery is for a documented medical reason, ask for English records for insurance claims.
At Yoonho Women's Hospital in Apgujeong, Seoul, labiaplasty is performed by Dr. Joonho Cho within the cosmetic gynecology service.
Why international patients choose Yoonho
Frequently asked questions
Is labiaplasty painful?
Local anesthesia and sedation keep you comfortable during surgery. Soreness and swelling for the first few days are normal and usually managed with oral pain relief and cold packs.
Will labiaplasty affect sensation?
Most women report no lasting change. Temporary numbness or sensitivity is common during healing; lasting changes are uncommon but possible.
Can I have labiaplasty if I plan to have children?
Yes. A vaginal birth may change the labia again, so some women choose to wait, but previous labiaplasty does not usually prevent a vaginal delivery.
How long should I stay in Seoul?
Plan about 5–7 days so the wound can be checked before your flight.
Is there a minimum age?
Cosmetic labiaplasty is generally not advised before adulthood, because the labia continue to develop during adolescence.
Will the scar be visible?
The incision is placed along natural lines and usually becomes hard to see once healed, but scars vary between individuals.
OB-GYN Specialist · Ph.D. · Medical Director
M.D., M.Med. & Ph.D., Chung-Ang University · OB-GYN specialist training, Eulji University Medical Center · Member, Korean Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last reviewed: . This page is for general information and does not replace an in-person consultation.
Talk to an English-speaking gynecologist
Yoonho Hospital · 304 Apgujeong-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul · Mon–Fri 9:00–18:00, Sat 9:00–13:00 · Walk-ins welcome.