NP Aesthetics
Labiaplasty in Zurich
The shape of the inner labia differs from woman to woman. Size, length and asymmetry are anatomical variants of normal and are not in themselves a finding. A procedure is only considered when this causes symptoms in everyday life and when the expectation matches what is surgically achievable.
Consultations and surgery are performed by Dr. med. Dr. Phil. Annemarie Nijboer at Klinik Selnau, Zurich.
Anatomical diversity
Differences in the length, shape, colour and symmetry of the inner labia are common and normal. Differences between the sides exist in most women. Treatment does not arise from a comparison with images, but from the individual pattern of symptoms.
What a labiaplasty can address
Irritation and chafing
Recurring mechanical irritation, soreness or a feeling of pressure in everyday life.
Sport
Symptoms during activities involving pressure or friction, such as cycling, horse riding or running.
Clothing
Pressure or a feeling of disturbance with tight clothing.
Asymmetry
Marked differences between the sides that are mechanically bothersome or felt to be a burden.
Aesthetic reasons
Aesthetically motivated concerns are also a legitimate reason for a consultation. They are assessed just as factually as functional symptoms.
When no treatment is needed
If there are no symptoms, no operation is required. Even with existing symptoms, it can first be checked whether conservative measures — adapted clothing, skin care, treatment of skin changes or inflammation — are sufficient.
In adolescents, during pregnancy, with acute inflammation or unclear skin findings, surgery is not performed initially; instead, the situation is investigated and observed.
Consultation and examination
The discussion clarifies the specific symptoms, their course over time and the expectation of the result. The examination assesses the extent, symmetry, skin quality, the transition to the clitoral hood, and previous findings such as inflammation or skin diseases. Where necessary, a gynaecological co-assessment takes place.
The examination and consultation take place in a protected setting; an accompanying person is possible on request.
Surgical principles
The aim is a functionally relieving, inconspicuous contour with preserved sensitivity and a tension-free suture. Resection is conservative: an excessively extensive removal cannot be reversed and can lead to symptoms.
Different approaches
Common approaches include edge resection along the free margin and wedge-shaped techniques that preserve the natural edge. Both approaches have different advantages and disadvantages regarding scar position, edge appearance and the course of healing; neither is fundamentally superior to the other. The choice depends on the findings, the tissue and the pattern of symptoms.
Anaesthesia
Local anaesthesia, with sedation if necessary, or general anaesthesia are possible. The decision depends on the extent and your preference.
Recovery
Swelling
Swelling and pressure sensitivity are strongest in the first few days; cooling and loose clothing help. Complete subsiding takes several weeks.
Hygiene
Rinsing with clear water after using the toilet, careful drying and avoiding irritating care products are recommended. The sutures are usually self-dissolving.
Sport
Light movement early; activities involving pressure or friction only after medical clearance, usually after several weeks.
Sexual intercourse
Usually paused for several weeks and resumed only after wound healing is complete and with medical clearance.
Scars
The scars lie at the edge or in the wedge line and are usually inconspicuous; they mature over several months.
Sensation
A temporarily altered sensation is possible and usually resolves.
Risks and limitations
Asymmetry
A complete evening-out of the sides cannot be planned; minor differences may remain.
Wound healing
Wound healing problems, suture dehiscence, postoperative bleeding, haematoma and infection are possible.
Over- and under-correction
An excessively extensive resection can lead to a feeling of tension or symptoms; a remaining excess may persist.
Sensitivity
Permanent changes in sensation are rare but possible.
Revision
A correction is assessed no earlier than after healing is complete, usually after several months.
Costs and personal consultation
The medical consultation for surgical procedures costs CHF 250. If you subsequently book an operation with us, the consultation fee is credited in full against the price of the operation. Following the examination, you will receive an individual cost breakdown that clearly states which services are included.
Questions worth asking before surgery
From when does a finding require treatment?
There is no standard value. What matters are symptoms in everyday life, such as chafing, pressure or recurring irritation. If there are no symptoms, no treatment is required.
How long does recovery take?
Swelling and pressure sensitivity are pronounced in the first one to two weeks. Sedentary work is usually possible after a few days; complete subsiding of the swelling takes several weeks to months.
When are sport and sexual intercourse possible again?
Light movement is possible early. Sport involving pressure or friction, such as cycling or horse riding, as well as sexual intercourse, are usually paused for several weeks and resumed only after medical clearance.
Does sensation change?
A temporarily altered or reduced sensation in the scar area is possible. Permanent changes are rare but cannot be excluded; they are part of the informed consent discussion before the procedure.
Treating physician
- Dr. med. Dr. Phil. Annemarie Nijboer
Specialist in Surgery
Related pages
A good decision begins with a conversation.
The initial consultation is about clarification, not selling. It does not necessarily end with a surgery date — often it brings the realisation that a different approach, or no procedure at all, is the right choice.
The consultation process
- 01
Discussion
We listen to your concerns, medical history, expectations and what you would like to change about your appearance.
- 02
Examination
A careful clinical examination and assessment of your underlying anatomy.
- 03
Options
Possible procedures, alternatives, limitations and risks — explained clearly and without time pressure.
- 04
Time to reflect
You decide in your own time. Any outstanding questions can be addressed in a further consultation.
Request a consultation
Leave your contact details. Our practice team will call you back during practice hours to arrange a consultation at Klinik Selnau.