Labiaplasty (DOVE) Surgery
All female operating team.
Dr Georgina Konrat
Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS)
Surgical Fellow of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery and Medicine (FACCSM).
Registered Medical Practitioner: MED0001407863
General Registration.
What is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is known by a range of names: labia reduction, labia minora reduction, labioplasty, labia majora reduction, vaginal rejuvenation, and vagina surgery.
What is DOVE Labiaplasty?
Dr Georgina Konrat designed this unique development in Labiaplasty surgery over 18 years ago and continues to research and refine her procedure with the aim of further reducing known risks and complications. It’s called DOVE Labiaplasty surgery and aims to reduce and reshape the labia minora (inner lips) and the surrounding skin, which includes excess skin of the clitoral hood and perineum. The surgery may include procedures to the surrounding areas like the outer lips or labia majora, mons pubis or pubic mound.
DOVE Labiaplasty provides a more inclusive approach to the female genitalia. This means that concerns regarding the clitoral hood, labia minora and perineum are addressed resulting in a more natural appearance while avoiding many of the potential risks and complications experienced with the other surgical techniques. Most importantly, being only a superficial dissection and not a ‘full thickness’ wedge of tissue removal, the blood supply and nerve innervation to the labia are not compromised, and therefore, normal sensation of the labia and the clitorus is maintained. Dr Georgina Konrat’s aim is to inform and empower women with the right knowledge to make the most informed decision possible regarding Labiaplasty surgery.
Understanding patient suitability for DOVE Labiaplasty
Many women develop large or irregular labia minora (inner lips) and have excess skin folds which may extend to the clitoral hood and to the perineum. For others, the appearance of labia can be altered by childbirth, weight gain followed by weight loss, and trauma.
Whatever the cause, patients report that labia which are too large, asymmetrical or uneven cause problems such as discomfort and irritation and recurrent infections affecting their day-to-day and intimate life.
Other Types of Labiaplasty Procedures
Apart from DOVE Labiaplasty pioneered by Dr Georgina Konrat there are two other main types of Labiaplasty.
The trim method is the most commonly used surgical technique to perform Labiaplasty surgery to this day, and involves longitudinal excision or trimming of the
inner labia to make it even with the outer labia. However, there are both aesthetic and functional problems that may arise as a result of this technique. Also, it is difficult with this technique to address other concerns of excess clitoral hood and surrounding tissues.
With the trim method there are risks that too much tissue might be removed during Labiaplasty surgery.
There is a risk of visible scarring of the labial edge with a scalloped, unnatural appearance.
It is difficult to address the problem of excess clitoral hood skin with this method. While there will be an improvement in the width of the labia minora, there may not
be an improvement in the length of the Labia minora and the clitoral hood may have a more prominent or abnormal appearance.
The Wedge technique is a newer surgical technique where a doctor removes a full-thickness wedge or V shape of tissue from the Labia Minora and then stitches the
remaining edges of the removed wedge together. The advantages of this technique include the preservation of the natural shape of the outer border of the Labia
Minora, and no stitches are needed on the outside edges of the Labia. The tissues of the Labia Minora however, are thin and delicate, and a wedge excision (cutting a
triangle of tissue from each of the labia and sewing together the edges) may result in some complications.
With wedge Labiaplasty surgery, the wound or scar may fail to heal well, which can result in partial or even complete wound breakdown or result in small holes or
perforations in the Labia Minora.
Due to the more invasive nature of this procedure, there can be a higher risk of infection and poor scarring. Unsatisfactory scarring including a thick or retracted scar can develop, which can be very uncomfortable.
The (DOVE) Labiaplasty Surgery Journey
As of July 21st, 2023, cosmetic surgery requirements for patients will be as follows:
- A GP referral is required to book your first consultation.
- Two consultations are required. One of the consultations may be via telehealth. The other consultation will be with Dr Georgina Konrat in person in either her rooms in Sydney
- Following the second consultation, a mandatory seven day cooling off period is required before a surgery date can be booked.
During your consultation, Dr. Konrat will conduct a comprehensive review of your medical history, perform an examination, and thoroughly discuss various procedure options, including the corresponding risks and complications.
Once your initial consultation is complete, you will receive a detailed surgery information brochure along with a cost estimate for the procedure.
Please read and review our labiaplasty DOVE. information guide for more.
Before Surgery:
Dr Konrat’s goal is to ensure you are well informed about Labiaplasty surgery and to make your surgery experience as comfortable as possible.
- Eat a healthy nutrient dense diet leading up to surgery.
- Regular exercise
- Please stop smoking for 6 weeks before and 6 weeks after surgery.
If you decide to undergo the Labia surgery Sydney procedure, please review, print out and submit our labiaplasty DOVE informed consent form on your next visit to the hospital.
Special Requirements for DOVE Labiaplasty Surgery
- Blood tests are requested.
- Brazilian wax is preferred approximately 3 – 5 days prior to your actual surgery date
- Have your prescriptions filled at the chemist and ready
- Baby wipes: non perfumed for use at the toilet instead of toilet paper.
- Cotton buds: Dr Konrat recommends you use warm water and cotton buds to clean your stitches twice daily for two weeks after your procedure.
- Panty Liners: wear a panty liner in cotton underwear for four weeks after your procedure.
- Pack your bag for hospital: full “granny panties” cotton underwear with a panty liner to prevent irritation to your stitches, comfortable clothing, panty liners (gentle ones) and non-perfumed wipes for use instead of toilet paper.
- You will need a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you overnight post-procedure.
There are Some Definite Do Not’s:
- No sexual activity for 4-5 weeks
- No G-strings, nylon lace panties, tight jeans or simply any clothing that will irritate your stitches
- No tampons for 6 weeks: these will irritate and at times tear your stitches.
- No bike riding or horse riding or any exercise that irritates your stitches for 6 weeks.
- If you ride a horse or bike, we recommend wearing bike shorts with a chamois insert under your jodhpurs for the first 2 months after you return to riding. This means you can commence riding at the 6 week mark after your surgery.
- No swimming, spas or baths until the stitches are removed 2 weeks after your procedure.
Our Labiaplasty surgery is conducted in a licensed and accredited day hospital setting. The procedure can be performed under simple sedation with long-acting local anaesthesia or, if necessary or preferred, under general anaesthesia.
Upon arrival at the hospital, one of the operating theatre nurses will admit you. The DOVE Labiaplasty surgery typically lasts around one and a half hours, but it is advised to anticipate spending at least half a day in the hospital.
A topical cream containing local anaesthesia is administered to the area, resulting in significant numbing. Additionally, you will receive oral sedation, which induces a sleepy and relaxed state. Patients, including those who may experience nervousness or anxiety, typically find the sedation to be highly beneficial.
Pre-operative photos are taken, and surgical drawings mark the areas to be treated.
You will be comfortable throughout the procedure and the surgical area will be completely numb. At times you may even drift off to sleep; this is completely normal.
As soon as you arrive home post-procedure, you need to take your first dose of pain medication. Follow your medication instructions closely.
Icepacks are encouraged, including packs of frozen peas wrapped in a pillowcase. These should be placed on and off the operated area in the first 24 hours post-op. This will work reduce swelling and inflammation and pain in the first 24 hours. Do not leave ice packs on for extended periods.
Ensure you drink plenty of water once you are home and eat lots of vegetables, salads, and fruits to assist with healing and ease of bowel movements. Good nutrition helps with healing.
Looking after your stitches: the stitches are clear and very tiny. Every morning and night, dip cotton buds in a warm bowl of water, and use them gently to clean your stitches. Clean any secretions or collections away, then pat dry. Using a new cotton tip, apply an ointment that has been supplied for your stitches.
If you experience a thrush infection, extreme pain, redness, or development of extremely swelling, call the office during office hours or the after-hours emergency number provided on your pre and post operative instruction sheet.
What to expect over the next 2-weeks following Labiaplasty surgery Sydney procedure?
In certain instances, the skin may require a few small dissolvable stitches. While these stitches are designed to dissolve on their own, the majority of them will naturally dissolve within two weeks. Any remaining stitches will be gently removed during a follow-up appointment at our Sydney clinic, precisely 14 days after your procedure.
- You may be prescribed antibiotics to take orally for 1-2 weeks after the surgery.
- Most of the stitches not yet dissolved will be removed at your 2 week post operative review.
- Most women find they can resume normal activities after 3-5 days.
- Usually, sexual activity may resume in 4-5 weeks.
- The first 7-10 days can be a little uncomfortable and you should not wear jeans, tight pants, or other restrictive clothing during this time.
We highly recommended that you rest for at least 3-4 days following the surgery. For the next week following your rest, you can gradually return to gentle daily activities.
Remember that vigorous exercise may cause swelling and impair healing in the first two weeks post procedure.
Revision Labiaplasty surgery: Correction following suboptimal Labiaplasty
Many specialists in cosmetic surgery, plastic and reconstructive surgery and gynaecology now offer intimate female surgical procedures. Appropriate
training, experience and an ability to demonstrate reliable and good post-operative outcomes is of utmost importance. Revision Labiaplasty surgery and correcting suboptimal outcomes of surgery is often very complex and difficult.
If you would like to ask questions about a previous Labiaplasty surgery, please get in touch by calling us on 07 3391 5710 or booking a consultation.
Labiaplasty (DOVE)
How is DOVE Labisplasty Surgery Different to Other Types of Labiaplasty Performed Today?
DOVE Labiaplasty involves removing only the most superficial skin cells where required. No full thickness excision of tissue is performed, and this means that important tissue structures such as major blood vessels and nerves remain intact. Full thickness excision through the delicate intimate genital tissues and complete excision of labial tissue as in other labiaplasty techniques is not performed in DOVE Labiaplasty. DOVE labiaplasty reduces visible scarring, functional, and many of the aesthetic complications that sometimes occur with the Trim or Wedge Labiaplasty procedures. The DOVE labiaplasty procedure ensures that sensation to the clitoral body is preserved and there is no compromise to orgasm.
Similar to any surgical procedure, there are inherent risks involved. Dr. Konrat’s dedication lies in prioritising the health and well-being of patients. Dr Konrat emphasises the importance of thoroughly understanding specific requirements of each patient prior to undertaking any procedure.
Learn More From Dr Georgina Konrat
It’s imperative that you find yourself fully informed about the procedures you are wanting to engage in: the information on our DOVE Labiaplasty surgery Sydney page has been carefully written and is regularly updated to ensure industry standards. In saying that, it is important to note that you should not make an informed decision by simply reading a web page, regardless of the comprehension of information offered.
Because of this, we encourage you to book a consultation with Dr. Konrat herself, where she can assess you, explain the procedure in detail, along with present your options to you and assist in your understanding of risks and complications.
Please note the following:
- A GP referral is required in order to book your consultation for Labiaplasty in Sydney.
- Two consultations are required prior to any cosmetic surgery: one of which may be via telehealth, the other must be in person with Dr Konrat at her Sydney clinic
- A 7-day cooling off after the second consultation is required before a booking for surgery can be made.
Being fully informed of the surgical procedure is absolutely critical. An in-depth consultation and examination will enable Dr Konrat to inform you of the options available, as well as the risks involved and complications to keep in mind.
Please take care to remember that risks, recovery from surgery and healing vary between each patient and highly depend on factors including, but not limited to; genetics, diet, exercise, co-operating with post operative appointments and post-operative care.
Risks Possible with Labiaplasty (DOVE)
Never make a decision based on information on a webpage alone, no matter how comprehensive it may be. Book a personal consultation with Dr Konrat, where you can be assessed and discuss the procedure in full, with information to help you understand your options, risks, and complications of DOVE Labiaplasty surgery.
General Risks of Surgery
Given the significance of surgery within the realm of modern medicine, it is sometimes overlooked that risks are inherent in all surgical procedures, including Labiaplasty surgery. It is imperative to gain an understanding of the risks before undergoing this operation.
Wounds
All internal and external wounds need time to heal post procedure. Sutures or stitches and other materials are used to hold wounds closed while healing.
Wound Break-Down
In some cases, small, scarred areas may not heal as quickly as anticipated. You may notice a tiny hole where the stitch was – when this occurs, there are two options to consider: Watch and wait – the wounds will gradually heal on their own or; if, after assessment, Dr. Konrat feels the overall result will be improved by closing the small wound, this will be done by placing a few stitches in area to assist with faster healing.
Infection
In rare cases, despite taking precautions, infections may occur during and just after any procedure. 4Minor infections may occur and will impact the healing process. This area is sensitive and is home to a number of bacteria and other organisms. During surgery, their general environment is disturbed, exposing the area to potential infection, which is why taking the prescribed antibiotics is crucial.
Bleeding / Bruising
Occasionally, there may be instances of minor bleeding. If you experience this, please promptly inform Dr. Konrat or our team for immediate assistance and assessment. Early intervention is beneficial and supports the expected healing process. We strongly encourage our patients to take photographs and share them securely through our medical email for initial and swift evaluation.
Swelling
Tissue in the treated area is highly delicate, and it is common for minor swelling to occur following surgery. This swelling may persist for several weeks but is a normal part of the healing process. People often experience similar healing patterns after childbirth, especially if stitches were required. In extremely rare cases, more significant swelling may develop. If you notice such swelling, we advise you to promptly report to the clinic, enabling Dr. Konrat to assess the situation and discuss potential treatment options.
Asymmetry
Although we do our best to ensure complete symmetry during your Labiaplasty surgery Sydney procedure, both sides may not be completely the same prior to the surgery, making it difficult to provide a perfectly symmetrical finish post-procedure. During consultation with Dr Konrat, you will be assisted in the understanding of expectations.
Pulmonary Risks
Blood clotting in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) is a risk for patients, clotting that breaks off and can potentially get stuck in the lung circulation (pulmonary embolism). By wearing surgical stockings, this risk is minimised during procedure, along with getting out of bed as soon as possible. DOVE Labiaplasty does not require a general anaesthetic, you will be awake and independent as soon as the procedure is over.
Risks of Anaesthesia
If you are undergoing our DOVE Labiaplasty, it will be performed under local anaesthesia with sedation in a fully accredited and licenced day surgery. Very rarely, patients choose to undergo the operation with a general anaesthetic. For the most part, this is due to anxiety, or due to having an accompanying procedure. Dr. Konrat will take a full medical history, including requesting a number of tests prior to your operation, ensuring your health is in optimal shape and appropriate to engage in the surgery.
Mental Health Disorders and Elective Surgery
Maintaining realistic expectations is crucial when considering elective procedures like Labiaplasty. The aim of this procedure is to enhance rather than achieve perfection. While complications or outcomes that fall short of expectations can sometimes arise, additional surgery may be necessary. Such situations can potentially cause stress for patients.
During your pre-surgery consultation with Dr. Konrat, it is essential to openly discuss any history of emotional depression or mental health disorders. Even if you are uncertain about the relevance of a particular matter, please ensure to mention it.
Not Sure Where To Start?
Dr Georgina Konrat and her team are here to assist you in becoming fully informed about Labia surgery Sydney and empower you with the knowledge you need to make important decisions. We welcome enquiries from patients in Sydney, and the rest of New South Wales. Call us on 02 9188 1949 or request a call back below.