Hypertrophy of labia minora – pathomorphology and surgical treatment

Abstract

Summary Backgound: Hypertrophy of labia minora is a variant of normal anatomy. The enlargement can be unilateral or bilateral and is sometimes asymmetric. Hypertrophy of the labia minora may be attributed to mechanical irritation and endocrine diseases. Labia minora longer than 5cm is a functional and aesthetic problem for many women. Surgical treatment is performed at the request of the patient and based on surgical reduction of labia minora. Aim: The goal of this paper is to present our own experiences in labia minora reduction. Material and methods: Twenty-one patients with labia minora hypertrophy, aged from 18 to 35, were operated. Hypertrophy was bilateral in all cases but asymmetrical in 5. We have observed that labia majora were smaller than normally and even after labioplasty did not contact in the midline. We performed elliptical resection of the protuberant segment of the hypertrophic labium. Results: We obtained good aesthetic and functional results. All patients were fully satisfied with the outcome. Conclusions: Hypertrophy of labia minora is not a pathologic condition but rather a variant of normal anatomy. Indication of the operation is psychical and functional discomfort. Elliptical resection of the protuberant tissue is a safe method of treatment.