Linear (edge) resection
PrincipleLinear excision of the free edge
Best indicationModerate hypertrophy, pigmented free edge to remove
AdvantagesSimple technique, short learning curve
LimitationsLong scar, loss of natural free edge
Female intimate surgery · The 8th arrondissement of Paris & Neuilly-sur-Seine
Intimate surgery Dr Jérémie Zeitoun · Gynaecological Surgeon in the 8th arrondissement of Paris
Reduction labiaplasty: a precise procedure that respects the anatomy. Performed as day-case surgery, with possible French health insurance reimbursement.
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Consultations at the practice, 241 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré (Paris 8th), and at Clinique Hartmann (Neuilly-sur-Seine). Surgery takes place at Clinique Hartmann.
Because your discomfort is real
Are you affected?
If you’re reading this page, something has probably been bothering you for a while. Maybe for a long time. Maybe you’ve never spoken about it openly — not to your doctor, not to your loved ones. It’s common. It’s understandable.
Discomfort related to the labia minora affects women of all ages and all body types. It can appear at puberty, after childbirth, or gradually without any identifiable cause. It is not a sign of abnormality. It says nothing about your femininity.
What matters is the impact on your daily life. Is it preventing you from doing sport freely? Is it weighing on your intimate life? Are you avoiding certain situations because of it? If the answer is yes to any of these questions, a consultation may be worth considering.
The consultation does not commit you to anything. Its first purpose is to listen to you, examine you, and provide an honest answer — whether surgical or not.
✓
You experience pain or irritation When wearing certain underwear, cycling, running, or sitting for long periods.
✓
You experience discomfort during intercourse Discomfort, pain, or a pulling sensation that affects your intimate life.
✓
You avoid certain situations Changing rooms, swimming, intimacy — out of self-consciousness or fear of others’ gaze.
✓
You think about it regularly A recurring thought, a discomfort you can’t set aside.
✓
You’ve searched for information online And you wonder if what you feel really justifies a consultation.
What medicine says
There is no standard morphology
Anatomical diversity is the rule, not the exception. Surgery is not there to conform to a norm — it is there to relieve real discomfort.
Published anatomical studies show extreme variability of the labia minora in healthy adult women: length from 20 mm to over 100 mm, width from 7 to 50 mm, right-left asymmetry in more than 50% of cases. None of these morphologies is pathological in itself.
The Motakef classification (2015), used in clinical practice, does not aim to define an aesthetic norm. It serves only to grade the degree of protrusion beyond the labia majora to guide surgical indications and reimbursement criteria. A stage II is not "abnormal" — it is simply a clinical reference point.
The best published satisfaction studies on labiaplasty (Miklos & Moore, 2013; Motakef, 2015; Goodman, 2016) show patient satisfaction rates above 95% — provided the indication is correctly established and the patient is properly informed beforehand.
This is why the pre-operative consultation is not a formality. It is the most important moment of the pathway.
> 95%
Patient satisfaction
Miklos & Moore, 2013 · Motakef, 2015 · Goodman, 2016
50%+
Women with asymmetry
Right-left asymmetry is the anatomical norm, not the exception.
< 2%
Major complications
Major complication rate in published series (dehiscence, haematoma).
JMMA005
CCAM code
French health insurance reimbursement base: €46.48
Reasons for consultation
What leads to consultation
The decision to consult belongs entirely to the patient. It may be motivated by functional discomfort in daily life, psychological unease, or both. All these reasons are legitimate and deserve attentive, non-judgemental listening.
Functional discomfort
Irritation when wearing underwear, pain when cycling or running, discomfort in certain positions.
Intimate discomfort
Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse, persistent sensation of discomfort affecting intimate life.
Marked asymmetry
Unilateral or bilateral hypertrophy of the labia minora, often present since puberty or after childbirth.
Psychological distress
Persistent self-consciousness, avoidance of certain situations (group sport, intimacy), impact on self-esteem.
Surgical technique
The procedure
Two techniques are available according to the official CNGOF/SCGP 2024 information sheet. The choice depends on your anatomy and surgical practice — we discuss it together during the consultation.
Longitudinal resection
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CNGOF/SCGP reference techniqueAbsorbable suturesRegular result
Longitudinal resection involves directly resecting the excess portion of the labia minora protruding beyond the labia majora. This is the CNGOF/SCGP reference technique — simple and reproducible. It produces a regular result but may slightly alter the natural pigmentation of the labial edge. It is particularly indicated when the free edge is irregular or hyperpigmented.
Sutures are performed with absorbable threads that will fall away spontaneously in the weeks following surgery — no removal necessary.
Wedge resection (flap technique)
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Natural free edge preservedNatural pigmentationLength and height excess
Wedge resection treats both an excess of length and height of the labia minora. A triangle of mucosa is drawn, excised, and the labium is then reconstructed. This technique preserves the original free edge and the natural pigmentation of the mucosa. It is technically more demanding and requires precise planning of the incision.
The risk of partial dehiscence is slightly higher in cases of post-operative haematoma. It is preferred when the patient wishes a very natural result, with an intact free edge.
Anaesthesia and operative course
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General anaesthesiaDay surgery~20 minutes
The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia, as day surgery, at the Groupe Hospitalier Hartmann in Neuilly-sur-Seine. It lasts approximately 20 minutes. The patient arrives in the morning and returns home in the afternoon, accompanied.
A pre-operative anaesthetic consultation is mandatory. Standard blood tests are prescribed. No particular dietary restrictions beyond standard fasting before general anaesthesia.
Consultations at the practice, 241 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré (Paris 8th), and at Clinique Hartmann (Neuilly-sur-Seine). Surgery takes place at Clinique Hartmann.
Recovery
Post-operative course
Recovery is generally straightforward. Swelling and a pulling sensation are expected in the first week — well attenuated by simple analgesics. The definitive result can be assessed from 2 months, scars at 12 months.
Day 1
Return home
Discharge the same evening. Rest. Paracetamol-level analgesics. Loose clothing or skirt, cotton underwear. Ice can be applied to reduce swelling.
Days 3–15
Local care
Daily shower, careful drying after each urination. Avoid maceration, baths, tampons. Bruising and haematomas are common and diminish rapidly.
Month 1
Check-up consultation
Healing verification. Progressive return to activities depending on progress. No sexual intercourse, no strenuous sport until cleared.
Months 2–12
Progressive result
Result assessed from 2 months. Definitive appearance of scars at 12 months. Full return to all activities.
Post-operative recommendations
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CNGOF/SCGP 2024
The recommendations of the official CNGOF/SCGP 2024 information sheet are as follows. In the first 15 days: loose clothing or skirts, cotton underwear. It is very important to avoid any maceration — dry carefully after showering and after each urination.
It is recommended to avoid all sexual intercourse, tampon use, baths, aquatic activities and any strenuous physical activity until the post-operative consultation at one month. Ice can be applied locally to reduce swelling in the first few days.
Loose clothing · cotton underwear for 15 days No baths · no tampons · no sport before month 1 Careful drying after each urinationRisks and possible complications
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Informed consent
During the procedure: bleeding or haematoma formation is possible. Very rarely, compression injuries to nerves or soft tissues may occur.
After the procedure: the principal risk is wound dehiscence, which usually follows a haematoma. It is most often managed with local care, sometimes antibiotics, and only very rarely requires surgical revision. Local pulling sensations are common and well controlled with simple analgesics. Bruising may appear and resolves spontaneously.
Long-term: skin or mucosal necrosis is rare and generally limited. Painful intercourse is exceptional and transient. Altered sensitivity of the labia minora is very rare, usually transient, and recovers within 3 to 6 months.
Wound dehiscence — main risk Altered sensitivity — very rare, transient Mucosal necrosis — rare, local careWarning signs requiring urgent review
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Call without delay
After surgery, contact the surgical team without delay if you notice any of the following: persistent heavy bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, unusual pain or fever. These signs may indicate a haematoma, infection or wound dehiscence requiring prompt management.
If in doubt, it is always better to call. Early management prevents more serious complications in the vast majority of cases.
Heavy bleeding → call Fever · foul-smelling discharge → seek review Unusual pain → do not waitFrom first thought to result
Your pathway step by step
Six clear steps, no surprises. Each patient is accompanied individually from the initial consultation to the final result.
01
Consultation
Listening, clinical examination, classification, discussion of options. A detailed quote is provided if surgical indication is confirmed.
02
Reflection period
A 15-day legal cooling-off period applies after the quote is issued — mandatory before any scheduling.
03
Anaesthetic consultation
Mandatory. Standard pre-operative blood tests prescribed. Final questions before the day of surgery.
04
Procedure
Day surgery. Admission in the morning, return home in the afternoon. Duration 20 min. Companion required.
05
Day-8 review
Healing check. Return to sedentary work if recovery is favourable. Tailored post-operative advice.
06
Outcome at 2–12 months
Result assessable from 2 months. Final scar appearance evaluated at 12 months. Full return to all activities.
Coverage
French health insurance reimbursement
Labiaplasty is listed in the surgical procedure nomenclature and reimbursed by French National Health Insurance. A detailed quote is systematically provided during the consultation, and I show you photographs of results so you know exactly what to expect.
French health insurance · CCAM code JMMA005
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ReimbursableBase €46.48Detailed quote
Labiaplasty is a procedure listed in the CCAM nomenclature under the code JMMA005. It is reimbursed by French National Health Insurance, with a coverage base of €46.48 at 70% by the Assurance Maladie. The remainder is reimbursed according to your complementary health insurance.
There are no restrictive conditions to know about before consulting. It is during the consultation that we jointly assess your situation, I explain the applicable coverage to your case, and provide you with a complete and detailed quote — surgical fees, anaesthetic fees and facility fees included. No hidden costs. A mandatory legal reflection period of 15 days applies before signing.
Additional fees apply in sector 2. A detailed and transparent quote is provided at the consultation. No hidden costs.
Before-and-after photographs shown at consultation
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During each consultation, I show you photographs of operative results — before and after — to allow you to visualise concretely what labiaplasty can bring. These photographs come from my practice and are presented to you in a strictly medical and confidential context.
This is an important moment in the consultation: it allows you to have realistic expectations, to understand the differences between the two techniques (direct resection and wedge), and to choose with full knowledge. No decision is taken on the day of the consultation — the legal reflection period is mandatory.
Your surgeon
A gynaecological expertise
at the service of intimate care
Intimate surgery is above all a surgery of trust. It requires careful listening, precise technical mastery, and support that respects the time each patient needs.
Dual board-certified in Gynaecology-Obstetrics and Surgical Oncology, trained at Institut Gustave Roussy, I perform this surgery as part of a comprehensive gynaecological practice — ensuring a coherent and safe anatomical and functional approach to the perineum.
"The discomfort you feel is real. My role is to assess it honestly, to explain the options to you, and to propose surgery only if it brings concrete benefit."
Technique comparison
Choosing the right technique
Three main techniques coexist. The choice depends on morphology, the degree of pigmentation of the free edge, the presence of asymmetry, and the anatomical features the patient wishes to preserve (relief, colour, sensitivity).
| Technique | Principle | Best indication | Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Linear (edge) resection | Linear excision of the free edge | Moderate hypertrophy, pigmented free edge to remove | Simple technique, short learning curve | Long scar, loss of natural free edge |
| Wedge resection (Alter) | Central triangular excision, edge-to-edge sutures | Marked hypertrophy, desire to preserve the free edge | Preserves free edge, relief and pigmentation | Technically more demanding, rare risk of dehiscence |
| Composite resection | Combination wedge + linear or Y/V | Complex asymmetry, major hypertrophy or associated clitoral hood | Adaptable to highly variable morphologies | Tailored operative plan, longer duration |
| Local anaesthesia + sedation | Lidocaine + light IV sedation | Moderate hypertrophy, cooperative patient | Quick discharge, no strict fasting | More uncomfortable for some patients |
Wedge resection (Alter)
PrincipleCentral triangular excision, edge-to-edge sutures
Best indicationMarked hypertrophy, desire to preserve the free edge
AdvantagesPreserves free edge, relief and pigmentation
LimitationsTechnically more demanding, rare risk of dehiscence
Composite resection
PrincipleCombination wedge + linear or Y/V
Best indicationComplex asymmetry, major hypertrophy or associated clitoral hood
AdvantagesAdaptable to highly variable morphologies
LimitationsTailored operative plan, longer duration
Local anaesthesia + sedation
PrincipleLidocaine + light IV sedation
Best indicationModerate hypertrophy, cooperative patient
AdvantagesQuick discharge, no strict fasting
LimitationsMore uncomfortable for some patients
Sources: Alter GJ, Aesthet Surg J 2008; Goodman MP, J Sex Med 2016; CNGOF — Gynaecological surgery recommendations 2024.
Frequently asked questions
What patients often ask
At what age can a labiaplasty be performed?
The procedure is possible once pubertal development is complete, generally from the age of 18. In younger patients, a surgical indication can be discussed in cases of major functional discomfort, but requires parental consent and careful assessment.
There is no upper age limit. Anatomical changes linked to the menopause or childbirth can constitute an indication at any age.
There is no upper age limit. Anatomical changes linked to the menopause or childbirth can constitute an indication at any age.
Does it hurt? During and after?
During the procedure: no. It is performed under general anaesthesia — you are asleep. You feel nothing.
Afterwards: recovery is generally well tolerated. Local discomfort, swelling and bruising are expected in the first few days. Paracetamol-level analgesics are sufficient in the vast majority of cases. Frank pain is rare. Most patients describe more a sensation of tension or tingling than actual pain.
Afterwards: recovery is generally well tolerated. Local discomfort, swelling and bruising are expected in the first few days. Paracetamol-level analgesics are sufficient in the vast majority of cases. Frank pain is rare. Most patients describe more a sensation of tension or tingling than actual pain.
Will the scar be visible?
No, in the vast majority of cases. Labial mucosa heals remarkably well — it is one of the best-vascularised tissues in the body. Scars blend into the natural folds. According to the CNGOF/SCGP 2024 sheet, the definitive result should not be assessed before 2 months, and 12 months are needed to judge the definitive appearance of the scars.
The wedge technique preserves the original free edge — the scar is located within the body of the labium, even less visible. Genital keloids are exceptional.
The wedge technique preserves the original free edge — the scar is located within the body of the labium, even less visible. Genital keloids are exceptional.
Does labiaplasty affect sensitivity or sexual pleasure?
The labia minora have sensory nerve endings, but their innervation is distinct from that of the clitoris. A well-performed labiaplasty does not alter sexual sensitivity in more than 98% of cases according to published data. Many patients even report an improvement in their intimate life after the procedure — because the physical discomfort and psychological self-consciousness have disappeared.
Transient hypoaesthesia of the scar is possible in the first few weeks — it resolves spontaneously.
Transient hypoaesthesia of the scar is possible in the first few weeks — it resolves spontaneously.
Can one give birth normally afterwards?
Yes. Labiaplasty does not alter the structures involved in vaginal delivery. Pregnancy and childbirth are not contraindicated after labiaplasty. It is simply advisable to wait for complete healing (at least 2 months) before planning a pregnancy.
Note: pregnancy or childbirth can subsequently modify the result through perineal stretching in the post-partum period. This point is systematically addressed in the consultation for patients who have not yet had children.
Note: pregnancy or childbirth can subsequently modify the result through perineal stretching in the post-partum period. This point is systematically addressed in the consultation for patients who have not yet had children.
How much does a labiaplasty cost and is it reimbursed?
Labiaplasty is reimbursed by French National Health Insurance (CCAM code JMMA005, base €46.48, covered at 70% by the Assurance Maladie). The remainder is covered according to your complementary insurance. A complete and detailed quote is systematically provided at the consultation — surgical fees, anaesthesia and facility fees included. Before-and-after photographs are also shown at the consultation. No hidden costs. A 15-day mandatory reflection period applies before signing.
Additional fees apply in sector 2. A detailed, transparent quote is provided at the consultation.
Additional fees apply in sector 2. A detailed, transparent quote is provided at the consultation.
When can sport and normal activities be resumed?
Return to sedentary work is possible from 5 to 10 days depending on progress. Standing or physical work generally requires 2 to 3 weeks off.
Return to sport — particularly cycling, running or swimming — is recommended after 4 to 6 weeks, on clearance at the check-up consultation. Sexual intercourse is advised against for the same period.
Return to sport — particularly cycling, running or swimming — is recommended after 4 to 6 weeks, on clearance at the check-up consultation. Sexual intercourse is advised against for the same period.
Does the result look natural? Will my partner notice a difference?
The goal is not to create a uniform or artificial morphology — it is to correct what bothers you while preserving the natural appearance of your tissues. The wedge technique in particular preserves the original free edge and the natural pigmentation of the mucosa.
At 3 months, the scars are discreet and the final morphology is natural. The vast majority of patients and their partners do not perceive the result as "operated" — but as visible and felt relief.
At 3 months, the scars are discreet and the final morphology is natural. The vast majority of patients and their partners do not perceive the result as "operated" — but as visible and felt relief.
Can it recur? Is a second operation needed?
No. Labiaplasty is a definitive procedure — the excised tissue does not grow back. A second surgical procedure is not necessary in usual cases. A secondary correction can be discussed in cases of insufficient result or partial dehiscence, but remains exceptional (less than 3% in published series).
However, pregnancy or significant hormonal changes (menopause) can subsequently alter the appearance of the remaining tissues — without ever recreating the initial situation.
However, pregnancy or significant hormonal changes (menopause) can subsequently alter the appearance of the remaining tissues — without ever recreating the initial situation.
I feel ashamed to talk about it. How does the consultation work?
This is the question many patients dare not ask — but that many feel. You have nothing to be ashamed of. The consultation takes place in a strictly medical setting, with no judgement of any kind regarding your morphology or your decision to consult.
It begins with a period of listening: your history, your symptoms, your expectations. Then a quick clinical examination. Then an open discussion about what is possible, what is indicated, and what is not. You leave with a clear answer — and no obligation to proceed.
It begins with a period of listening: your history, your symptoms, your expectations. Then a quick clinical examination. Then an open discussion about what is possible, what is indicated, and what is not. You leave with a clear answer — and no obligation to proceed.
What is labiaplasty, and where is it performed?
Labiaplasty (nymphoplasty) reduces the labia minora when they cause rubbing, discomfort with sport or sex, or for a cosmetic reason the patient has chosen. Dr Jérémie Zeitoun, a gynaecological surgeon, performs it as a day case at Clinique Hartmann, Neuilly-sur-Seine. He sees patients in Paris 8th and at Clinique Hartmann (Neuilly-sur-Seine), where he operates.
When should I see a surgeon about the labia minora?
When discomfort keeps returning (pain, irritation, trouble with sport or clothing) or when a question about appearance keeps weighing on you. The consultation does not commit you to surgery. The procedure is for adults. Before 18 it is considered only for severe, documented functional discomfort, with parental consent.
What does the labiaplasty consultation include?
The consultation starts with listening to the reason for coming, then a clinical examination, then an explanation of what is indicated and what is not. If an operation is considered, a quote is given and a reflection period applies. Nothing requires the procedure to be booked the same day.
How do I book an intimate-surgery appointment?
Appointments are booked on Doctolib (https://www.doctolib.fr/chirurgien-cancerologue/paris/jeremie-zeitoun-paris) or via the callback form on the appointment page. The office can be reached on +33 1 58 05 11 24, Monday to Friday. Dr Jérémie Zeitoun consults at 241 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, 75008 Paris, and at Clinique Hartmann, 48 ter boulevard Victor Hugo, 92200 Neuilly-sur-Seine. Surgery takes place at Clinique Hartmann.
Bibliography & sources
Evidence from the literature
The information on this page draws on peer-reviewed medical publications and the recommendations of learned societies (CNGOF, ACOG, ESGE).
Patient satisfaction
Miklos JR, Moore RD. Labiaplasty of the labia minora: patients’ indications for pursuing surgery.
J Sex Med. 2012;9(6):1492–1498. PubMed
First large satisfaction study, 258 patients. Overall satisfaction: 97.3%. 90% report improved sexual quality of life.
Classification & indications
Motakef S et al. Vaginal labiaplasty: current practices and a simplified classification system for labial protrusion.
Plast Reconstr Surg. 2015;135(3):774–788. PubMed
Systematic review of 27 studies. Proposes a 4-stage classification. Major complication rate: below 2%.
Wedge technique
Alter GJ. Aesthetic labia minora and clitoral hood reduction using extended central wedge resection.
Plast Reconstr Surg. 2008;122(6):1780–1789. PubMed
Original description of the wedge technique. Preserves free edge, pigmentation and sensitivity. Anatomical reference for this approach.
Technique review
Goodman MP. Female genital cosmetic and plastic surgery: a review.
J Sex Med. 2011;8(6):1813–1825. PubMed
Comparison of surgical techniques. The wedge approach preserves the natural free edge and pigmentation. Superior aesthetic outcomes for patients seeking a very natural appearance.
CNGOF guidelines
CNGOF. Recommendations on aesthetic genital surgery procedures.
French College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, 2024. cngof.fr
French framework for indications. Labiaplasty is validated for documented functional discomfort. Prior information and a reflection period are mandatory.
ACOG position
ACOG Committee on Gynecologic Practice. Elective female genital cosmetic surgery.
Committee Opinion No. 795. Obstet Gynecol. 2020;135(1):e36–e42. PubMed
American College position: counselling on normal anatomical variability, screening for psychological comorbidity (body dysmorphic disorder), informed consent.
Anatomical variability
Lloyd J et al. Female genital appearance: ’normality’ unfolds.
BJOG. 2005;112(5):643–646. PubMed
Reference anatomical study: large physiological variability. Labia minora length: 7–50 mm. Protrusion beyond labia majora is anatomically normal.
Complications & safety
Oranges CM et al. Labia minora reduction techniques: a comprehensive literature review.
Aesthet Surg J. 2015;35(4):419–431. PubMed
Review of 38 studies, 1,949 patients. Overall minor complication rate: 6.7%. No major complications documented. Safety validated.
Psychological outcomes
Sharp G et al. The psychological impact of female genital cosmetic surgery: a systematic review.
Aesthet Surg J. 2017;37(9):1027–1036. PubMed
Systematic review of the psychological impact. Significant improvement in self-esteem and sexual quality of life. Importance of pre-operative screening for body dysmorphic disorder.
RCOG / NICE guidance
RCOG. Female genital cosmetic surgery — ethical opinion paper.
Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists, 2013 (revised 2024). rcog.org.uk
UK position: rigorous information on anatomical variability, contraindicated in minors, strict ethical framework.
This page is for information only and does not replace individualised medical consultation.
Consultations at the practice, 241 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré (Paris 8th), and at Clinique Hartmann (Neuilly-sur-Seine). Surgery takes place at Clinique Hartmann.