Corrections of the outer labia with fillers or fat transfer

The demand for cosmetic procedures in the genital area is steadily increasing. Many women feel uncomfortable discussing this topic, which can lead to years of issues or feelings of shame. Thankfully, cosmetic treatments in this area are considered normal in many countries, though in the Netherlands, they remain less common.

We’ve previously discussed treatments for unwanted urinary leakage, vaginal dryness, and vaginal rejuvenation, but we haven’t covered labia filler treatments before. Let’s start with some basic information!

The outer labia: what you need to know

Often, the term “vagina” is used when referring to the vulva. The vulva includes the external female genitalia, bordered by the mons pubis, the groin, and the anus. It consists of the outer labia (labia majora) and the inner labia (labia minora), which cover part of the clitoris and the vaginal opening. The clitoris and the area around the vaginal opening (vestibulum) are also part of the vulva. The inner labia are often longer than the outer labia, which can be confusing.

What is normal?

The vulva varies from woman to woman; there is no single “normal” vulva. Because the external genitalia are hidden compared to a man’s, it can seem somewhat mysterious. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with your own body to dispel this mystery. Knowing the correct names for your genitalia also helps in clear communication, including with your healthcare provider.

The outer labia (labia majora)

Returning to the labia: “labia” means “lips” in Latin, with a single lip being a “labium.” The outer labia, or labia majora, are folds of skin and fatty tissue covered with pubic hair after puberty, which partially conceal the rest of the vulva. They can vary in size, shape, and length, all of which is normal and part of what makes each person unique. They are sensitive and can swell slightly when aroused. The vulva is influenced by the female hormone estrogen, which causes changes during puberty and again later in life. Estrogen thickens the labia, so as you age and estrogen levels decrease, they may reduce in volume. This can cause discomfort, such as during cycling, where the inner labia might become exposed, and even the vaginal opening can be visible. Beyond physical discomfort, some may find it aesthetically displeasing. Full lips are often associated with youth, not just on the face.

Restoring volume

Restoring volume can offer a solution. This can be done in several ways: with hyaluronic acid fillers specifically developed for this area, or with your own fat through lipofilling. There are notable differences between these two treatments.

1. Hyaluronic acid fillers

The hyaluronic acid treatment is a sort of quick fix: the procedure is performed while you are in gynecological stirrups. The area is disinfected and then numbed with a few injections. The material, Desirial Plus (a minimum of 2ml per side is needed), is injected using a fine needle. Afterward, the treated area is cleaned, covered with a bandage or gauze, and you are out within 30 minutes. The effect typically lasts 10 to 12 months, but with repeated treatments, it can last up to 2 years.

2. Lipofilling

Lipofilling is not a quick fix. Here’s a detailed description of the procedure. With lipofilling, you can inject a much larger amount of material (fat), and the effect usually lasts much longer. This longer-lasting effect might not be preferred by everyone; those who want to try it out first often choose hyaluronic acid fillers. However, if you find 4ml of filler insufficient (which might seem more than it is), lipofilling could be an option.

In both cases, the labia will feel swollen and tender for a few days. With lipofilling, this will also be the case in areas where the fat was harvested. For 5 days, it’s advised to avoid swimming pools and saunas to prevent infection, and sexual activity should be avoided during this period for the same reason.

Interested? Don’t hesitate to book an informative consultation. During the consultation, we will discuss which option best suits you.